Nitmiluk National Park

Just around 244 to 340 km southeast of Darwin lies the 292,800 hectare Nitmiluk National Park. At present, the historical park is maintained through the combined efforts of the Jawoyn people, the traditional owners of the land, in conjunction with the Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory.

Nitmiluk National Park's main attraction is Katherine Gorge, a series of 13 magnificent gorges situated on the Edith Falls and Katherine Rivers. It is estimated that the formation of the gorges took 23 million years through the heavy and swift-flowing downpour of water through small cracks on the earth's surface.

Sites of Significance

More than a location of beautiful landscapes, the gorges and the places which surround them have great traditional value for the Jawoyn people. For this local group, Nitmiluk refers to a cicada dreaming place - a location of creation or a place where the spirits of creation stay.

Travelers can explore and experience the magnificence of the gorges and its surrounds by cruise, helicopter, light plane, foot or river cruise. The short but gratifying river cruise will allow the visitors to pass through a breathtaking sight of the gorges, rock holes and the most popular cliff face, Jedda's Rock. Impressing are the ancient art painted on the surfaces of the rocks as your boat passes. These timeless paintings, which are believed to be 7,000 years of age, represent sacred dreaming for the Jawoyn. Paintings are very delicate so tourists are not permitted to touch them, also out of respect.

An aerial view of the gorge can be taken by either a light plane or helicopter. By contrast is the option to proceed on foot via a more challenging 100 km-walk, to explore the deep rainforest, rocky slopes and steep cliffs. Exploring the place by foot is seen by many as the best way to closely meet and experience the overwhelming wonders of this gorge. To further protect terrain, wildlife and fauna, strict rules are set in place by park management.

Returning through the gorge can be undertaken via an alternative route that begins with Smitt's Rock, an ideal place for a soothing swim. Next to the Smitt's Rock are the Lilly Ponds, a beautiful location especially during the wet season followed by the Butterfly Gorge. After the Butterfly Gorge is the Windolf Walk which is elevated and provides brilliant look outs which provide spectacular sights of the Katherine River in its grandeur. It is strongly recommended to not miss out on visiting the Southern Rockhole, a small but lovely beach perfect for a dip to relax any aching muscles and joints.
 
The waters from the gorges rapidly flow into the Katherine River, a body of water that starts in Kakadu before making its way through the park's central area. The water continuously flows down to the river before joining the waters of the Timor Sea. Water currents usually change between April and October. This is the time commonly known as the dry season. The water becomes peaceful and calm, providing the ideal conditions for canoeing, fishing and swimming. In some portions of the river, visitors may see freshwater crocodiles, which are less aggressive then their saltwater counterparts with little interest in attacking people.

Ideal Months to Visit

The most ideal period to visit and explore the Katherine Gorge is around May to September, the dry season. Many areas may still be accessible during the wet season, but due to probable flooding and inclement weather, some limitations may be imposed on swimming, canoeing, hiking and other activities.

Activities and Guidelines

Park administration has set up facilities to allow visitors to engage in fun and recreational activities. There are boat ramps, camping\caravan areas, flying tours, fishing, kiosks and picnic areas. There are certain guidelines to be followed, which includes camping in specific areas where fire and camping activities pose a low risk to the environment. Likewise, no pollutants such as soaps are to be used within the park's vicinity. Fishing is also subject to strict guidelines.

Getting There

Nitmiluk National Park can easily be reached through highways and train line. Katherine is just 29 km. away from the exact location of the park.

Traveling to Katherine through the train line is easiest. The town of Katherine is a main train station between South Australia's Adelaide and Northern Territory's Darwin.

Most guests wanting to view the gorges in Katherine frequently come from the Northern Territory capital city. They travel by plane or by buses using the Stuart Highway route.

Katherine Gorge has two entry points -- one in south and the other one in north. The southern entry point, which is a more common entry to the Nitmiluk, is a 30 km-drive from the town of Katherine. The northern entry point, on one hand, is 45 km. from the town and 20 km. to Edith Falls.

Clothing and Supplies

Outside
Clothing should be comfortable, light and suitably protective from the sun. This may mean long sleeved shirts. At the least a hat to provide you shade, a high UV protective sunscreen (preferably waterproof so you can have something you can trust in the water) and comfortable walking shoes for potentially longs walks and protection from the terrain. 

Inside
The climate and lifestyle of the NT does result in a very casual dress but keep in mind that many venues that you would expect to have a dress code in any other city will have the same here. To be sure, check the dress code of any venues or dress appropriately before you attend.

Water
The climate of the NT requires you to remain hydrated and this means you may drink a lot more water then you ordinarily would. Carry plenty of water particularly for long drives and walks. Worn hydration packs are popular amongst visitors and a very good idea.

Contact

The Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory

• Phone: 08 8975 4852
• Fax: 08 8975 4837
• Website: www.nt.gov.au/nreta/parks
• Email: nitmiluknationalpark@nt.gov.au
  

Katherine Photos