14 Best Things To Do In Litchfield National Park
Litchfield National Park near Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory is a magical oasis of hiking trails, campsites, waterfalls, and pristine swimming holes. There are so many amazing things to do in Litchfield National Park! Whether you’re just visiting the park as a day trip from Darwin or embarking on a multiday wilderness adventure, this gem of Australia’s Top End is packed with gorgeous natural attractions that showcase the beauty of the Outback.
14 Best Things To Do In Litchfield National Park
From diving into a natural swimming pool, to watching the sunset over a waterfall, to trekking across the landscape and immersing yourself in history, here are some of the best things to do in Litchfield National Park!
1. Go for a dip in Florence Falls Swimming Hole
Litchfield National Park has lots of epic swimming holes and waterfalls, and Florence Falls is arguably the most popular in both categories! Surrounded by lush greenery and rugged cliffs, Florence Falls is a beautiful cascade that tumbles into a wide, deep, refreshing swimming hole. The cool waters are the perfect escape from the region's tropical heat, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists in the Outback.
2. Visit Buley Rockhole
Located just a short walk away from Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole is another gem of Litchfield National Park. Buley Rockhole consists of multiple cascading rock pools that are connected by smooth granite boulders and surrounded by tropical vegetation. It’s a gorgeous spot that offers another refreshing swimming location for escaping the heat of the Outback!
3. Explore the Lost City
If you have a 4WD, exploring the magnificent geological wonder of the Lost City is a must. Nestled deep within Litchfield National Park, the Lost City is named because of its unique sandstone formations that resemble a man-made city. Nature has created this fascinating landscape that looks like something from a different world. Driving and hiking through the weathered terrain is one of the coolest things to do in Australia’s Top End.
4. Go camping
Though many travellers visit Litchfield National Park as a day trip from Darwin, there are some amazing campgrounds in the park for those who want an extended stay. You can easily spend 2-4 days exploring all the top sights in Litchfield National Park, so camping overnight gives you the benefit of more time!
The Northern Territory National Parks site lists all the campgrounds in the park, which you have to book in advance. Some campsites are very remote while others are more sophisticated. Either way, camping in the wild, remote landscapes of the Northern Territory is sure to be an unforgettable adventure!
5. See the Magnetic Termite Mounds
The Magnetic Termite Mounds are another one of the top sights in Litchfield National Park. These natural marvels are built termites over many centuries, and their architecture is very impressive. Termites can tap into the Earth’s magnetic field to create these structures, hence the name, “Magnetic Termite Mounds”. It’s a truly fascinating sight!
6. Admire the iconic Wangi Falls
When considering the best waterfalls and swimming holes in Litchfield National Park, Wangi Falls may be tied with Florence Falls for first place! Wangi Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder, with cool, fresh water tumbling down a rocky escarpment. At the base lies a pristine plunge pool where visitors can bask in the crystal-clear waters. Accessible by well-maintained walking trails, the falls offer an immersive nature experience in the national park.
7. Escape the crowds at Tjaynera Falls
Tjaynera Falls, also known as Sandy Creek Falls due to its location on Sandy Creek, is a hidden gem of the Top End. Being less popular than Wangi Falls or Florence Falls, this pristine, secluded waterfall and swimming hole is one of the best non touristy things to do in Litchfield National Park. It’s a lovely double-tiered waterfall accessible via a short and scenic hike through the ancient landscapes of the park.
8. Tour the Batchelor Museum
Though this museum is located outside the national park in the nearby town of Batchelor, it’s still one of the best things to do in the area for those who love history and culture. To gain a greater understanding of the Northern Territory’s historical significance, it’s worth stopping here on your way to or from Litchfield National Park! The Batchelor Museum displays artifacts and information about WWII history, Aboriginal culture, local flora and fauna, and more!
9. Watch the sunset at Tolmer Falls Lookout
Tolmer Falls is a breathtaking sight complete with a plunge waterfall and another heavenly swimming hole. Head to the elevated viewing platform to appreciate the elegance of the falls and view the surrounding wilderness.
Because much of the Northern Territory is landlocked, elevated lookouts will provide the best sunset views. Tolmer Falls is no exception, making it one of the best places to watch the sunset in Litchfield National Park. You can see the warm glow of the Outback sun reflecting on the sandstone cliffs near the falls, and it’s a gorgeous sight!
10. Adventure out to Surprise Creek Falls
For an off-the-beaten-track waterfall adventure, head out to Surprise Creek Falls. This secluded, non touristy waterfall is only accessible with a 4WD as you have to cross multiple rivers to get there. There is also a campsite out here if you want to spend the night! From the car park, you have to hike through the dense forest to reach Surprise Creek Falls. But the wide, deep, majestic swimming pool is definitely worth the trek.
11. Go for an epic hike
Hiking is another one of the best things to do in Litchfield National Park. Many of the waterfalls and swimming holes mentioned already are accessible via short hiking trails, and there are lots of other day hikes in the park as well! Greenant Creek Walk, Shady Creek Walk, Walker Creek Walk, and the more popular Florence Falls and Wangi Falls walks are all great ways to explore the park on foot.
For the experienced bushwalkers looking for an epic, multiday hike in Litchfield National Park, the Tabletop Track is the ultimate trail. This 5-day circuit traverses all the highlights of the park! Just remember to stay hydrated while hiking anywhere in the Top End, whether it’s a 5-day hike or a 5-minute hike. The heat can be intense, so pack extra water and sun protection.
12. Step into the past at Blyth Homestead
Blyth Homestead is a well-preserved homestead built in the late 1920s that provides visitors with a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the Australian Outback. Surrounded by vast landscapes and grasslands, the rustic homestead is a great insight into the past, making it one of the top sights in Litchfield National Park for history lovers.
13. Hike to Walker Creek
Accessible by a scenic drive and a moderate walking trail, Walker Creek has a beautiful series of cascading waterfalls and inviting rock pools. The hike to Walker Creek is around 3.5km, making it slightly longer and more challenging than the other swimming holes. That just makes your swim at the end even more rewarding! There are also some remote bush campsites out here if you want to camp near the creek.
14. Follow the Greenant Creek Walk to Tjaetaba Falls
Another hike, waterfall, and swimming hole! The Greenant Creek Walk is a real gem of Litchfield National Park. One of the more lush and tropical walks in the park, the Greenant Creek Walk winds through vibrant greenery before ending up at the beautiful Tjaetaba Falls and swimming hole. Here you can kick back, relax, and soak in the magical views.
What is special about Litchfield National Park?
As you can see, Litchfield National Park is so special because it is an oasis of lush, tropical beauty nestled into the heart of the Northern Territory. Australia’s The Outback is famous for its warm, red colours and its notoriously dry, intense climate. But the Outback is home to some amazing places that combat the heat of the desert with their waterfalls, swimming holes, and forests. Litchfield National Park does exactly that! In addition to its spectacular beauty, Litchfield is easily accessible from Darwin, making it one of the best places to visit in the Northern Territory.
