Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park

Nitmiluk

Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park — Nitmiluk National Park](/au/national-parks/nt/nitmiluk-national-park) features a series of 13 spectacular sandstone gorges carved by the…

National Park in Northern Territory

National ParkNational

Written by Ben Cole· Updated 3 May 2026

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About Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park

[Nitmiluk National Park](/au/national-parks/nt/nitmiluk-national-park) features a series of 13 spectacular sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River over millions of years, sacred to the Jawoyn people who call it Nitmiluk meaning 'cicada place'. Visitors can explore the gorges by canoe, helicopter, or on foot along the Jatbula Trail, a 58km multi-day walk ending at [Edith Falls](/au/attractions/nt/edith-falls). The vertical orange walls rise 65 metres above the jade-green river.

About

History & Significance

Nitmiluk National Park was established in 1989 to protect the 13 sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River over millions of years. The gorges hold deep significance for the Jawoyn people, the traditional custodians, who call the area Nitmiluk meaning 'cicada place'. The park encompasses 2,920 km² of pristine Top End wilderness with vertical orange walls rising 65 metres above the jade-green river.

Warnings

Freshwater Crocodiles PresentSaltwater Crocs Possible In Wet SeasonGorges Close In FloodsExtreme Heat

Getting There

Map of Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park

30km from Katherine town on a sealed road. Katherine is 320km south of Darwin via the Stuart Highway and is well-served by buses.

Parking

Free parking available at the visitor centre and main gorge access point. Capacity adequate for day visitors and caravan access, with dedicated disabled parking. Overflow parking available during peak seasons (May to August). Most facilities wheelchair accessible.

Nearest airport

Visitor Tips

•Book canoe hire in advance during peak season (June-August)
•The 2-gorge cruise is a great introduction; do a full-day canoe for the real experience
•Self-guided canoe allows you to stop and swim at your own pace
•Jatbula Trail is one of NT's best multi-day hikes — 5-6 days one way
•Swimming in the gorge is permitted but watch for freshwater crocodiles
•Go early morning for cooler temperatures and calmer water

At a Glance

Identity

Traditional Name: Nitmiluk
Also Known As: ["Katherine Gorge National Park","Katherine Gorge"]

The Place

Area: 2920 km²
Established: 1989
Significance: National

Plan Your Visit

Entry: Paid
Duration: 1-3 days
Best Time: May to October for gorge access; November to April when waterfalls are flowing
Hours: Park open year-round; gorge cruise access limited in wet season

Location

Area: Tindal
Region: Alice Springs
State: Northern Territory

Good to Know

Wheelchair AccessibleCamping AvailableAll ages, but suited to different activities by age — gorge cruises for all ages, Jatbula Trail for experienced hikers 10+, swimming in designated areas year-round

Highlights

Gorge CruisesCanoeing Through GorgesJatbula TrailAboriginal Rock ArtFreshwater CrocodilesSwimming Holes

Activities

CanoeingHikingSwimmingWildlife WatchingHelicopter ToursPhotographyGuided Tours

Family & Visitor Info

Ages: All ages, but suited to different activities by age — gorge cruises for all ages, Jatbula Trail for experienced hikers 10+, swimming in designated areas year-round
Shade/Cover: Limited shade
Pram Friendly: No