Visiting Kings Canyon, Watarrka National Park
Kings Canyon is a vast, rugged range located in the Watarrka National Park and renowned for its arid red rocks and beautiful walking trails. With towering copper rocky faces, a lush canopy of trees and a biodiverse array of wildlife, Kings Canyon is a wild gem of The Red Centre. The canyon walk itself provides a stunning view of the gorge, rock domes rise and fall from peaks to waterfalls. The scenery, both rugged and green, holds significance with the local Indigenous people in the area, the Luritja People. The site is laden with history and bush foods, with stories dating back tens of thousands of years.
Getting to King's Canyon
The Kings Canyon car park in Watarrka National Park is a 3.5 hr drive west from Alice Springs (Mparntwe), or about a 3 hr drive north of Uluru.
Is there public transport to Kings Canyon?
There aren’t public bus and train options, so you need either a vehicle or a tour to venture to the sprawling Watarrka National Park.
Driving to Watarrka National Park
If you’re driving, you can take the Red Centre Way via the Mereenie Way loop, which connects Alice Springs, Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon.
The best walks in Kings Canyon
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Rim Walk
The most popular walk in Kings Canyon is the Rim Walk; a 6km walk along the upper rim of the canyon. This trek takes about 3 to 4 hours and the effort is absolutely rewarded with the stunning golden views alone! With vivid contrasts of reds, oranges and bright green gum leaves, with the ultimate views of the towering sandstone wall, immerse yourself in the tranquil, unique world of the Red Centre.
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Kings Creek Walk
A shorter, still fantastic walk in Kings Canyon is the Kings Creek Walk. At 2.6km return (about an hour all up) the Kings Creek Walk takes you to the Canyons floor, alongside the gorge and watering holes, all the while shaded by swaying eucalyptus giants. This trail is accessible, thanks to the National Park services, and is an excellent option for everybody, particularly if you’re trying to keep cool in the summer months!
What to see in Kings Canyon
Garden of Eden
The lush, tropical heart of the dusty canyon, Garden of Eden is a must-see while you’re amongst the crags and red dirt of Kings Canyon. Venture up 500 steps, known as Heartbreak Hill, along the Rim walk, before the track levels out (the steep trek is worth it… we promise!) and you can descend to the floor of the garden. With spectacular trees, diverse plant life and a peaceful gorge, soak up the magic and enjoy the cool, shady canopies and caves.
The Watering Hole in Kings Canyon
The watering hole in the Garden of Eden is an important site and has been used as a men’s sacred place for thousands of years. As such, visitors are not permitted to swim, out of respect for the rich history and storytelling of the Anangu people, along with the local wildlife.
The Lost City
The Lost City is comprised of orange, sandstone rock formations gathered in towering groups, which you will pass through on the Rim Walk. Forming a dome-like wall, it really does feel as if you’ve stepped into a mysterious realm of rugged rock, sparse plants and old-world wonders!
Can I camp at Kings Canyon?
If you’re craving a longer, more adventurous trip to Kings Canyon, the Giles Track is a great option! 22 km walk through and along the Geroge Gill Range, you will start at Kings Canyon and end at Kathleen Springs. Two days are recommended for this one-way trail, however eager early risers can try and tackle this in one day during the cooler months. There are campsites all along the way, including at the 3km, 8km and 20km markings - the Reedy Creek site is excellently positioned at just under halfway. This trail is recommended for fit and experienced hikers, and you must be completely prepared with your own water, food and gear as there isn’t much along the way.
Where to stay near Kings Canyon
Discovery Kings Canyon Resort and Kings Creek Station are the nearest hotels to the canyon itself. Both are great bases if you’re coming to Uluru to hike Kings Canyon. We recommend booking in advance to secure a spot, especially during the cooler months.
Things to bring to Kings Canyon
- A litre of water per hour you plan on walking
- Wide-brim hat
- Light, sun-safe clothing
- Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes
- Snacks (leave no trace and take all rubbish with you)
- Camera
How to see Kings Canyon
- Multiday tour
- Camel trip
- 4WD
- Dining and resort experiences
- DIY walking!
