Mitchell Falls (Punamii-Uunpuu)
Western Australia
At a Glance
About Mitchell Falls (Punamii-Uunpuu)
Mitchell Falls is a spectacular four-tiered waterfall on the Mitchell River in the remote Mitchell River National Park, widely regarded as one of Australia's most iconic waterfalls. The falls cascade over ancient rock platforms into a series of plunge pools before dropping into the wider Mitchell River valley. Access is via an 8.6 km return walk passing ancient Wanjina rock art, Little Mertens Falls, and Mertens Gorge, or by helicopter transfer to the upper falls. The falls flow strongly in the wet season and remain impressive throughout the dry.
Mitchell Falls (Punamii-Uunpuu) Safety & Warnings
["Uunguu Visitor Pass required — obtain before entry at Drysdale River Station or online","Kalumburu Road from Gibb River Road is 170+ km unsealed — 4WD essential","saltwater crocodiles in lower Mitchell River — do not swim below lower falls","extremely remote — carry excess fuel, water, and emergency supplies","walk is 4–6 hours return — start before 7 am in dry season heat"]
Getting to Mitchell Falls (Punamii-Uunpuu)
350 km northeast of Derby: take Gibb River Road to Kalumburu Road, then north to Mitchell Plateau turn-off. Alternatively fly/helicopter from Broome, Kununurra, or Derby.
Mitchell Falls (Punamii-Uunpuu) Highlights
Activities at Mitchell Falls (Punamii-Uunpuu)
Tips for visiting Mitchell Falls (Punamii-Uunpuu)
Helicopter tours from Mitchell Plateau airstrip allow access to upper falls without the full walk
The full 8.6 km trail is one of the most rewarding walks in Australia
May–June offers best water volume after wet season
Obtain Uunguu Visitor Pass before departure — cannot be purchased at the falls