Visiting Kings Canyon, Watarrka National Park
Kings Canyon is a vast, rugged range located in Watarrka National Park, renowned for its arid red rocks, beautiful walking trails, and rich tapestry of history and wildlife. With towering copper rocky faces, lush pockets of greenery, and a biodiverse array of native animals, Kings Canyon is a wild gem of the Red Centre. Not only is the dramatic landscape stunning in its natural beauty, but it also holds deep cultural significance for the local Luritja people, whose traditions, stories and connection to land and culture stretch back tens of thousands of years.
Dive into our ultimate local guide before you visit this unmissable National Park, and be prepared for your next adventure to Watarrka.
Getting to Watarrka National Park, Kings Canyon
The Kings Canyon car park in Watarrka National Park is about a 3.5-hour drive west of Alice Springs (Mparntwe) or roughly a 3-hour drive north of Uluru. With limited public transport options, most visitors opt to journey in their own vehicle or join a guided tour.
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.
Check Out These Red Centre Tours That Visit Watarrka Kings Canyon!
Driving to Watarrka National Park
The Meerenie Loop
If you’re driving a 4WD vehicle, you can take the Red Centre Way via the Mereenie Way loop, which connects Alice Springs, Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. However, if you're driving a 2WD vehicle, consider your options here as the Meerenie Way loop is known to be treacherous with long stretches of unsealed roads and potholes. While not impossible for a 2WD, it is rough and there is incredibly limited mobile service in an emergency.
Sticking to the sealed roads & highways
In my experience of undertaking this journey from Alice Springs (Mpartnwe) in a 2WD, we added the extra hour onto the drive and stuck to the sealed roads. We stuck to the Stuart Highway until we nearly hit the town of Ghan, before turning right onto the Lasseter Highway, before a left onto Luritja Road, rather than venturing to the unsealed roads. It was not a huge hassle and provided us with a smooth journey and more peace of mind.
Refuel at Kings Creek Station
En route to start our day of walking, we made a delightful stop at Kings Creek Station, enjoying a delicious scone, browsing the souvenir shop, and even said g'day to the resident camels.
The best walks in Kings Canyon
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Rim Walk (6km, 3-4 hours, moderate/difficult)
The crown jewel of Kings Canyon is undoubtedly the Rim Walk, a 6-kilometer loop that offers panoramic views of the gorge from above and below. Our journey along this trail began with a challenging ascent up 500 steep steps, aptly nicknamed “Heart Attack Hill.” Although the start of our day was marked by rain, as we crested the climb the skies cleared and bathed the canyon’s orange rock in radiant sunlight.
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, echoing water holes and surprising pockets of lush rainforest, this was one of my favourite walks I have ever done.
Please note, in the warmer months, you must begin this walk before 9 am due to extreme heat. You can read more about walk safety below.
Read more about my experience hiking the Rim Walk in my outback itinerary blog article.
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Kings Creek Walk (2.6km, 1 hour, easy)
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 including families, particularly if you’re trying to keep cool in the summer months!
Check out this write-up for more family-friendly Outback walks.
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South Wall Return (4.8km, 2 hours, moderate)
For a moderately challenging option that offers stunning views without the full commitment of the Rim Walk, try the South Wall Return. This 4.8-kilometre return walk is marked with green arrows toward the gate and blue arrows on the way back, taking around 2 hours to complete and graded as a moderate (Grade 3) trail. The walk begins with a steep climb to the south wall of Kings Canyon, rewarding you with breathtaking vistas. Note that you cannot access the Garden of Eden or the remainder of the Rim Walk via this trail.
On hot days (36°C or above), be sure to start the South Wall Return before 11 am.
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Kathleen Springs Walk (2.4km, 1.5 hours, easy)
Ideal for families and visitors with limited mobility, the Kathleen Springs Walk is a sealed track without markers, offering wheelchair access. This easy (Grade 1) 2.4-kilometer return walk takes roughly 1.5 hours and is rich with interpretive signs that tell stories of Aboriginal culture and the recent cattle industry. The trail leads to a spring-fed waterhole at the head of Kathleen Gorge, a cool, tranquil spot perfect for a peaceful break.
Walk Safety in Watarrka National Park
When venturing into the canyon, walk safety is paramount, especially during the hotter months from September to April. Extreme temperatures can quickly turn a scenic hike into an emergency situation, so careful planning is essential.
On days when forecasts predict 36°C or higher, begin walking as early as possible to ensure your trek is both safe and enjoyable. Some walks such as the South Wall and Rim Walk have mandatory embark times which are enforced by rangers for hiker safety.
During peak heat periods, consider opting for shorter walks or waking up very early to minimize exposure. Always pack plenty of water, at least one litre per hour of walking, along with sun protection like a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and light, breathable clothing.
For more information on planning your visit to the seasons, check out our comprehensive when to visit the outback guide.
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… I 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 along the edges.
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. This site is a stop on the Rim Walk, and is the perfect place to have a sit down and listen to the tranquil quiet.
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!
Wildlife in Watarrka National Park
One of the things that stood out to me while exploring Kings Canyon was just how much life thrives in the cool pockets of arid desert rock. Home to rock wallabies darting, perentie lizards stretched and so much singing birdlife, it was so wonderful to hear and see so many creatures thriving in this oasis.
Watarrka History
Watarrka National Park is a place of deep cultural and historical significance. For over 20,000 years, the Anangu ngurraritja people have maintained a strong connection to this land. The park is a living cultural landscape, where traditional ceremonies and customs continue to be practiced. Many of its landmarks are linked to Tjukurrpa (the Dreaming), the spiritual belief system that explains the creation of the land and the laws that guide Anangu life.
European explorers arrived much later, with Ernest Giles first mapping the region in the 1870s and Walter Baldwin Spencer documenting it during the 1896 Horn Expedition. Kings Creek and Kings Canyon were named so by Giles after his friend Fielder King, however long before those names appeared on a coloniser map, this land had its own stories, passed down for generations.
Can I camp at Kings Canyon?
The Giles Track Overnight Hike
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, emergency communication device and gear as there isn’t much along the way.
Logistics: Where to Stay and What to Bring
Accommodation Near Kings Canyon
After a day filled with adventure, unwind at one of the nearby lodgings:
- Discovery Kings Canyon Resort: Just a short drive from the canyon, this resort offers a range of rooms and camping options.
- Kings Creek Station: Experience life on a working cattle and camel station with unique lodging, from safari cabins to campsites.
Bookings are recommended, as these popular spots can fill up.
Essentials for Your Adventure
Prepare for your visit by packing these essentials:
- Hydration: Carry at least one litre of water per hour of walking.
- Sun Protection: A wide-brim hat, sunscreen, and light, long-sleeved clothing are a must.
- Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes to navigate the rocky terrain.
- Snacks: Bring nourishing snacks and always remember to leave no trace.
- Camera: Capture the breathtaking vistas and unforgettable moments. See our notes on drones below.
How to Experience Kings Canyon
There are many ways to immerse yourself in this extraordinary landscape:
- Join a multiday tour
- Embark on a unique camel trip
- Take a thrilling 4WD adventure
- Enjoy the dining and resort experiences
- Or simply lace up your shoes and explore on foot!
AAT Kings offer tours and transfers from Uluru to Watarrka National Park!
A Note on Drones
For those keen on capturing aerial views of this extraordinary landscape, drones are permitted in many parts of the Northern Territory with the appropriate online permit. This permit is required for all drone flyers and is regularly requested by rangers. Also please be aware that certain areas, such as Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park, have strict no-fly zones to protect their cultural and environmental integrity.
A Summary: Visiting Watarrka National Park
Kings Canyon offers a unique opportunity to explore a stunning landscape with a rich cultural history. Whether you're tackling the challenging Rim Walk, taking the moderate South Wall Return, enjoying the easy Kings Creek Walk, or visiting the accessible Kathleen Springs, each trail invites you to connect with the environment. From the steep climbs to the peaceful waterholes, every part of the canyon has its own story. Plan ahead, stay safe, and immerse yourself in the true essence of the Red Centre.
