Want to bring the family along on that fantastic Australian adventure? The Northern Territory has enough to offer anyone looking for adventure, but visiting Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge must rank among the top experiences. Here are six reasons why Katherine Gorge is the best family trip in Northern Territory.
1. It is very reachable
Sure, it is rugged and lovely, but the best part is that getting from Darwin to Nitmiluk is simple, making both children and adults pleased.
You board the Stuart Highway at Darwin, and after driving for around 300 km, you reach Katherine. The time will fly by because this is a “kid-friendly” distance, especially once you start playing the in-car games.
2. Both the journey and the destination are fantastic
The best way to really get to know a place is on a road trip. Nothing is more enjoyable than gazing out the window and taking in the unique landscape that the Northern Territory has to offer.
You would imagine a picture-perfect Australian outback view, with expansive blue skies spanning above sweeping red hills studded with green eucalyptus. The same as what you see in all those Australian movies!
3. The enjoyable “pit stops”
Only a short detour off the main route, Edith Falls (Leilyn) is one of the first highlights of the enormous Nitmiluk National Park. Once you get out of the car, you can reach the falls in 125 easy steps down a well-traveled path from the parking lot.
This is a vast, extremely stunning waterhole that is completely safe to swim in and where there is plenty of space for everyone to splash around. For a genuinely peaceful experience, float in the midst of the lower falls after swimming through the dark green waters there if you have the stamina.
After you’ve finished swimming, take a picnic in the shaded area or indulge in one of the enormous burgers at the nearby kiosk, both of which are highly recommended.
4. A genuine outback encounter
The Nitmiluk Chalets, which can accommodate up to 5 people, are located just at the Gorge’s entrance. The big resort-style pool, the ideal outback sanctuary, serves as the community’s center point and creates a wonderful sense of belonging. Your family holiday will be enhanced by a bush Barbecue held under starry skies while making new acquaintances.
If you want to reward yourself, go to the Sugar Bag Café in the Visitors Center for a breakfast or lunch buffet. From the spacious outdoor deck, you can take in the breathtaking views of the Nitmiluk National Park.
5. The Gorge is breathtaking
The Gorge itself is, without a doubt, the centerpiece, and there are several ways to discover this incredible natural beauty. The Baruwei Lookout Hike, which offers a birds-eye perspective of the Katherine River, is an excellent spot to begin. The reward at the summit is definitely worth the short, one-hour trip and a few hard sets of stairs.
However, in my opinion, the best way to see the Gorge is from the water, surrounding yourself among the enormous sandstone cliffs, in what feels like a truly ancient landscape. There are a great number of walking trails for serious bushwalkers, including a five-day hike along the 66km Jatbula Track.
You can take a variety of cruises through the first three Gorges, and the guides’ personal tales and insights into the Jawoyn people in the area add to this breathtaking and aesthetically pleasing trip.
6. Get the family involved
You intend to upgrade your vacation, then. The Gorge can most definitely provide, though. Start moving while paddling a kayak or canoe through the water, only the sounds of nature interrupting the tranquility.
Tours on the Cultural Safari offer a fantastic participatory opportunity where you may discover more than just the breathtaking scenery. These excursions are jam-packed with activities, such as seeing rock art, trying your hand at didgeridoo playing, and even trying your hand at spear throwing. What better way to incite some family rivalry?
The only way to view all 13 Gorges is to take an exhilarating helicopter flight, so why not end with the ultimate experience? The takeaways are memorable for a lifetime.
