HikesAustraliaKakadu: Gunlom & Barrk

Kakadu: Gunlom & Barrk

Gunlom’s infinity plunge pool over the escarpment and the Barrk rock-art/sandstone walk

Difficulty 3/5 · ModerateDayLoopDay hike (escarpment)
Distance
~variable
Max elevation
~300 m
Elevation gain
~250 m
Duration
2-5 h
escarpmentplunge poolrock artdry seasonday
A breathtaking landscape of Bishop and Clerk on Maria Island, Tasmania.

The route

The line through Kakadu NP, NT, Australia - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.

Season & conditions

Best season

Dry season (May-Sep)

Weather risks

Tropical heat and humidity; wet-season storms

Dry season (May-Sep); wet-season closures and flooding - verify access. Confirm.

On the trail

Terrain & surface

Escarpment climbs to a plunge-pool infinity view and rock-art country

Technical & exposure

Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally

Navigation & waymarking

Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally

Accessibility & group fit

Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics

Crowds & solitude

Moderate in the dry

Variants & turnaround

Gunlom lookout only; the Barrk loop for the fit

Getting there & staying

Trailhead access

Gunlom (southern Kakadu; often 4WD/dry-season road)

Shuttle & transport

Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed

Huts, camping & refuges

Day route - none needed

Gear, water & connectivity

Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies

Facilities

Services in Jabiru; limited or none on the trail

Guide & crew

Not required; self-guided

Permits & safety

Kakadu NP pass; some sites have cultural access conditions; verify current openings. Confirm.

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Hazards

Heat, escarpment edges; check for crocodiles before any swimming

Emergency exits & rescue

Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote

This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.

Also in Australia

Walk Kakadu: Gunlom & Barrk with your group
Manta plans the route, the huts and the easy alternatives so a mixed crew all get a great day.
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