Nitmiluk National Park

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Spectacular Katherine Gorge forms the backbone of this 2920-sq-km park, about 30km from Katherine. A series of 13 deep sandstone gorges have been carved by the Katherine River on its journey from Arnhem Land to the Timor Sea. It's a hauntingly beautiful place and a must-do from Katherine. In the Dry the tranquil river is perfect for a paddle; in the Wet the deep still waters and dividing rapids are engulfed by an awesome torrent that churns through the gorge.

Plan to spend at least a full day canoeing or cruising on the river and bushwalking. It can get crowded in peak season. Nitmiluk Tours manages accommodation, cruises and activities within the park.

The traditional owners are the Jawoyn Aboriginal people who jointly manage Nitmiluk with Parks & Wildlife. The park was handed back to the Jawoyn in 1989; 'Nitmiluk' means 'Place of the Cicada Dreaming'.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Pat's Lookout

0.51 MILES

This fine elevated lookout over the inner reaches of first gorge is accessible along the Windolf Walk.

3. Katherine Museum

14.87 MILES

Katherine Museum is in the old airport terminal, about 3km from town on the road to the gorge. The original Gypsy Moth biplane flown by Dr Clyde Fenton,…

5. Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park

17.87 MILES

About 30km southeast of Katherine (1km off the highway), turn your back on the searing sun and dip 15m below terra firma into this mazelike limestone cave…

6. Katherine Low Level Nature Park

18.12 MILES

A lovely scenic spot on the banks of the babbling Katherine River, just off the Victoria Hwy (Rte 1) 4km from town. It has a popular dry-season swimming…

7. Leliyn

19.11 MILES

Reached off the Stuart Hwy 40km north of Katherine and a further 20km along a sealed road, Leliyn is an idyllic, safe haven for swimming and hiking. The…