Kalamina Gorge: Our Favourite Hike in Karijini National Park

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Kalamina Gorge quickly became our favourite in Karijini National Park. This one is a true gem of all the gorges we’ve explored in Karijini National Park.

The morning we spent there was nothing short of magical, and I’m excited to share our experience with you—along with some tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Kalamina-Gorge-shelley-stood-by-pool with reflections of the orange coloured rocks and green grass around the edges of the pool
Kalamina Gorge – our absolute favourite of all the gorges ©Lifejourney4two

In a Nutshell: Visitor Tips For Kalamina Gorge, Karijini

  • Facilities: Drop toilet available at the car park.
  • Trail Overview:
    • Kalamina Falls: Located on your right at the bottom of the steps.
    • Rock Arch Pool: The Grade 4 trail to the left of the steps leads here; 3km return.
    • Time: The trail is recommended as a 3-hour return, but we managed the return in about one and a half hours, stopping frequently for photos on the way there.
Kalamina Gorge with Shelley walking carefully along the edge
Navigating the edges of the gorge ©Lifejourney4two
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning (around 7 am) for the best light and fewer crowds.
  • Where to Find it: Kalamina Gorge is between Weano Gorge, Hancock Gorge, and the Visitor Centre.
  • What to Bring: Hat, sunscreen, fly spray, water shoes, and a camera!
  • Safety Tips: Watch out for slippery rocks and carefully use stepping stones when crossing streams.
  • Swimming: The pools are great for a refreshing dip, but the water can be cold.
  • Length of Stay: To fully experience Karijini National Park’s beauty, we recommend staying at least five days. Consider booking accommodation at Dales Campground or Karijini Eco Retreat for easy access to the park’s gorges.
  • Fuel and Supplies: Remember, there are no fuel or supply stations inside the park. Stock and fuel up in Tom Price or Newman if driving in from the west. Auski Tourist Village offers fuel and cooked meals if driving in from the east.
Kalamina-Gorge information Sign-
Lars walking through Kalamina Gorge with high gorge walls close by
Kalamina Gorge – walking on the edge! ©Lifejourney4two

A Quick Overview of Karijini National Park

Karijini National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder in the heart of Western Australia’s Pilbara region. It’s known for its rugged landscapes, deep gorges, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear pools.

The park is home to some of the oldest rock formations on Earth, and every corner offers a unique slice of nature’s artistry.

Hiking through Kalamina Gorge, Karajini NP
Kalamina Gorge reflections in Karijini National Park ©Lifejourney4two

We spent five days exploring Karijini, and each day brought new adventures and stunning sights. Whether you’re into hiking, swimming, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature, Karijini has something for everyone.

Kalamina-Gorge-flowers
Matted Trigger Plant near the Waterfall at Kalamina Gorge ©Lifejourney4two

Why Kalamina Gorge Stole Our Hearts

Kalamina Gorge, or Nhamurrunha as it’s traditionally known, stole our hearts with its serene beauty and peaceful charm.

Of all the gorges we explored in Karijini, we found this one to be the prettiest. Its beauty doesn’t overwhelm you at first glance but gently reveals itself as you walk along the trail, making each step a new discovery.

Shelley walking along the edge of Kalamina Gorge
Enjoying the picturesque views along the gorge ©Lifjourney4two

We arrived early, greeted by the soft morning light reflecting off the gorge’s red and orange rocks. It felt like the entire place had been paused just for us. The gorge was quiet, except for the gentle sounds of flowing water and the birds singing in the trees above.

Shelley sat by a small waterfall at Kalamina Gorge
One of the small waterfalls along Kalamina Gorge ©Lifejourney4two

What makes Kalamina so special is its intimate atmosphere. Although not difficult, the trail winds past a series of rock pools and small waterfalls, each prettier than the last. The colours of the rocks, combined with the mirror-like pools, create scenes straight out of a painting.

Kalamina-Gorge-reflections
Kalamina Gorge mirrored in its pools ©Lifejourney4two

By the time we reached Rock Arch Pool, we were utterly enchanted. Floating in the cool water, surrounded by towering ancient rock walls, felt like a privilege.

The combination of peaceful solitude, striking beauty, and the feeling that you’ve stumbled upon something extraordinary makes Kalamina Gorge unforgettable.

Rock Arch end of Kalamina Gorge, Karajini NP
The Rock Arch up close ©Lifejourney4two

Another of our favourite, easy-to-visit gorges is Pilgonoman Gorge, a not-so-well-known gorge on the Exmouth Peninsula in Cape Range. There, we had our first sightings of the endangered black-flanked rock wallabies.

Video Teaser: Kalamina Gorge Hike and Swim

Kalamina Gorge hike and swim extravaganza

Why an Early Start at Kalamina Gorge Pays Off

We rolled into the Kalamina Gorge car park at the crack of dawn—7 am. If you might groan at the thought of an early start, trust me, it’s worth it.

We had the entire place to ourselves, and the soft morning light made everything look like it was dipped in gold. It was perfect for photography and a peaceful stroll before the crowds arrived.

Lars Walking down the stone rocks at the start of the Kalamina Trail
The steps down into Kalamina Gorge ©Lifejourney4two
Absorbing the beauty of Kalamina Gorge
Absorbing the beauty of Kalamina Gorge ©Lifejourney4two

The Kalamina Trail: Easy Does It

Kalamina Gorge is a Grade 4 trail, but don’t let that intimidate you. It’s mainly flat, with just a bit of a scramble to get into the gorge and back up again.

Once you’re in, it’s an easy and leisurely walk through some of Karijini’s most stunning scenery.

Kalamina-Gorge-Shelley-at-pretty-part of the gorge
The picturesque Kalamina Gorge in Karijini National Park ©Lifejourney4two

The trail meanders past rock pools and small waterfalls, each more beautiful than the last. There’s one larger waterfall right at the bottom of the steps—on the right as you enter the gorge.

It’s the perfect spot to pause and take in the tranquil surroundings before continuing along the trail.

The small waterfall area of Kalamina Gorge - Lars walking on the edge towards the waterfall
Turning to the right at the bottom of the gorge, you’ll shortly come to this small waterfall ©Lifejourney4two

A Photographer’s Dream

Each section of Kalamina Gorge seemed to outdo the last, with orange-hued layered rocks and pools mirroring the trees above.

I’m not exaggerating when I say we couldn’t stop taking photos. In fact, at one point—around the third pool, with those stunning reflections and the surrounding trees—I remember thinking that I’d never been somewhere so beautiful. With only the sound of birds and waterfalls, it felt like a personal paradise for us.

Beautiful view of Kalamina Gorge with the sun hitting the orange rock sides and reflecting in the mirror like pool below
One of the most beautiful views at Kalamina Gorge ©Lifejourney4two
View down the gorge
There were so many photography moments along the trail ©Lifejourney4two
Wonderful rock formations in Kalamina Gorge
Amazing rock formations in Kalamina Gorge ©Lifejourney4two
More Kalamina gorge beauty
Kalamina Gorge in all its glory ©Lifejourney4two
Kalamina Gorge beauty
Kalamina Gorge, a hike not to be missed ©Lifejourney4two

If you’re looking to improve your photography, check out our travel photography gear recommendations to capture those perfect shots and explore some ideas for taking road trip photos.

Rock Arch Pool

When we finally reached the trail’s end, a small sign congratulated us on our efforts. Feeling accomplished—and a little hot—we stripped off and waded into the icy cold water.

It was a shock to the system at first, but after a few seconds, the chill gave way to pure refreshment. Being surrounded by those ancient rock formations while floating in the cool water was one of those moments when time seemed to slow down.

This time, compared to when we tackled Hancock Gorge, we had trusty water shoes, so we didn’t have to worry about slipping on mossy rocks or what might be lurking beneath the surface!

Non-slip water shoes can be bought from the Visitor’s Centre for $27.

Around the corner, we exited the water onto the bank, but the path didn’t continue, so we warmed up a little in the sun and swam back to the trail’s end.

Kalamina-Gorge-Rock-Arch-and deep water
Rock Arch end of Kalamina Gorge Trail
Kalamina-Gorge-End-of-trail
End of the Kalamina Gorge Trail ©Lifejourney4two

Meeting Fellow Travellers

As we were swimming back, we noticed another couple had arrived. We chatted for a good hour, swapping travel stories and tips. That’s one of the things we love about visiting places like this—you often meet “your people” along the way.

This German couple had been travelling around Australia in their 4×4 with a rooftop tent for nearly a year, and it was so refreshing to meet fellow adventurers who shared their passion for exploring off-the-beaten-path places.

Rock Arch area of Kalamina Gorge
Rock arch area and the end of Kalamina Gorge ©Lifejourney4two

The Return Journey Along Kalamina Gorge: A Burst of Life

Heading back, we noticed the gorge was getting busier, and the light was much harsher than earlier. If you’re keen on photography, definitely aim to arrive early.

But there’s something to be said for the later hours, too—this is when the butterflies and dragonflies came out, adding vibrant pops of colour to the scene. Red and blue dragonflies flitted around like tiny jewels, making the gorge feel even more alive.

Kalamina-Gorge-Shelley-walking-on-edge
Kalamina Gorge – hiking back along the gorge ©Lifejourney4two

Final Stop: Dales Campground and Ice Cream!

With our hearts full and our cameras bursting with photos, we headed off to the other side of the park to Dales Campground, our next base for the next two nights.

We couldn’t resist stopping by the Visitor Centre for ice cream on the way!

Where to Stay for Easiest Access to Kalamina Gorge

The campsite nearest to Kalamina Gorge is the Eco Retreat. We stayed there for two nights. They have hot showers, flushing toilets, a restaurant, a bar, and eco-tents to book if you don’t have camping equipment.

For more information about staying at Karijini National Park, see our detailed article on Camping in Karijini.

How to Get to Kalamina Gorge

Kalamina Gorge Map
Kalamina Gorge Map in Karijini National Park

Kalamina Gorge is the only road in Karrijini National Park, run by Parks and Wildlife (DBCA), that is still unsealed. It had some corrugations, but overall, the road wasn’t too bad.

Kalamina Gorge is about 96km from Tom Price and 24km from the Karijini Visitor Centre.

Note that the road to Hammersly Gorge is unsealed, but the DBCA doesn’t control it.

Our car parked in the car park area fro Kalamina Gorge
Kalamina Gorge parking area ©Lifejourney4two

Kalamina Gorge… That’s a Wrap

Kalamina Gorge might not be as famous as some other gorges in Karijini, but that’s part of its charm. It offers a perfect blend of tranquillity and stunning scenery and isn’t as busy as other gorges.

Whether you’re an early riser like us or prefer to take your time, this gorge offers something unique. Just don’t forget your water shoes!

If you’re visiting Karijini, don’t miss Kalamina Gorge—its beauty will stay with you long after you’ve left.

Ready to explore Karijini? Plan your visit with our complete guide, and don’t forget your water shoes!

If Kalamina Gorge has sparked your interest in Western Australia, check out our complete guide to exploring Western Australia for more travel inspiration and detailed road trip ideas.

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Planning Your Travels?

These are the travel resources we recommend and use when planning our trips.

For a more thorough list, visit our Travel Resources page here.

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Shelley

Shelley, a relief primary school teacher with a law degree, and her husband Lars co-own Lifejourney4two. Their adventure began in Perth, Australia, and has since taken them through Europe and Africa in motorhomes and bush campers. Shelley's travel guides combine practical advice with engaging stories, mirroring their shift from 'One Day' to 'Day One'. Together, they aim to inspire others to embark on their own travel dreams.

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