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Mitchell Falls (Punamii-Uunpuu)

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…

Waterfall in Western Australia

Ben ColeWritten by Ben Cole

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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.

About

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.

Warnings

Uunguu Visitor Pass Required — Obtain Before Entry At Drysdale River Station Or OnlineKalumburu Road From Gibb River Road Is 170+ Km Unsealed — 4WD EssentialSaltwater Crocodiles In Lower Mitchell River — Do Not Swim Below Lower FallsExtremely Remote — Carry Excess Fuel, Water, And Emergency SuppliesWalk Is 4–6 Hours Return — Start Before 7 Am In Dry Season Heat

Getting There

Map of 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.

Visitor Tips

  • 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

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

Significance
National

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
Full day (ground walk) or 2–3 hours (helicopter)
Best Time
April to October (after wet season recedes in May for best flow)
Hours
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Location

Region
Kimberley

Highlights

Four-Tiered Waterfall SystemAncient Wanjina Rock Art Along The TrailHelicopter Access OptionLittle Mertens Falls And Mertens GorgeRemote Kimberley Wilderness Setting

Activities

Hiking (Punamii-Uunpuu Trail, 8.6 Km Return)Helicopter FlightsSwimming In Plunge PoolsRock Art ViewingPhotographyBirdwatching

Features

Not available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Not available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

Basic Campground At Mitchell PlateauToilets At Mitchell Plateau AirstripHelicopter Landing Pad

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