If you’re up for a breathtaking adventure that’s (literally!) above the rest, the Kalbarri Skywalk lookout is your spot. This iconic viewpoint reminds me of the more famous Grand Canyon Skywalk in the US, but, to my delight, without the crowds!
Hovering 100 metres above the Murchison River, you’ll be totally wowed. Here, on these two cantilevered platforms, you feel as if you’re floating over the canyon below, with the rugged gorges stretching out beneath you like a grand red carpet.
But how do you get there? Is it worth it? I’m here to answer all these questions and more in this ultimate Kalbarri Skywalk visitor’s guide!
What is the Kalbarri Skywalk?
Imagine a giant balcony hanging out over one of the most gorgeous gorges you’ve ever seen – that’s the Kalbarri Skywalk. Luckily for us, the skywalk consists of two twin balconies, offering different bird’s eye views of Kalbarri National Park’s red rock vistas and the winding Murchison River.
The skywalk itself is a marvel of engineering, designed to blend into its natural surroundings while offering minimal environmental impact. Since each platform points out in different directions, you’ll get varied and dramatic perspectives of the landscape.
What Makes It Great?
Well… If you don’t see a couple of Kalbarri Skywalk photos and realise exactly what makes it so great I don’t know what to tell you! Stepping out onto the Kalbarri Skywalk is definitely a weak-knee moment (especially if you’re afraid of heights) but the views alone are more than worth it.
You can visit it at any time that the national park is open, but dawn and dusk are both firm favourites. At these times of day, there’s a magical moment when the sun hits the gorge and everything lights up in fiery reds and deep oranges. Truly, the Skywalk gives you front-row seats to nature’s best show.
How to Get There
Heading to the Kalbarri Skywalk is a road trip adventure on its own, and it’s one of the most popular stops on the Perth to Broome drive. From Perth, it’s roughly a six-hour drive, which might sound like a trek, but the scenery en route is part of the fun. You’ll pass through coastal towns and open landscapes that are quintessentially Australian outback.
If you’re coming from Geraldton, it’s about a two-hour drive – perfect for a day trip.
The Skywalk is well-signposted within the national park, so getting there isn’t a puzzle, but I’d recommend hitting the road early to beat the midday sun and make the most of the cooler morning temperatures. Plus, arriving early means fewer crowds and more peaceful moments to enjoy those epic views.
The road to the Skywalk is sealed all the way, making it an easy drive for any type of vehicle, but, unfortunately, you will need to either drive there yourself or take a multi-day tour from Perth to visit.
Kalbarri Skywalk Prices
Visiting the Kalbarri Skywalk is more affordable than you might think. You see, you’ll have to pay to enter Kalbarri National Park, but you don’t have to pay anything extra to visit the Skywalk whilst you’re there!
For adults, Kalbarri National Park entry fees are just $17 per vehicle, making it excellent value if you’re travelling with friends and family. Plus, these entry fees go towards maintaining and protecting this incredible natural area, so it’s money well spent.
Best Time to Visit
Choosing the best time to visit the Kalbarri Skywalk can really make your experience shine. For the most magical views, aim for the cooler months from April to September. During this time, the skies are clear and the temperatures are perfect for exploring without the intense heat.
I visited in July and the weather in Kalbarri was absolutely perfect for exploring – T-Shirt weather during the day, but still cool enough to hike, with fairly chilly evenings.
Just be warned: winter is the peak season in Kalbarri due to the super-high summer temperatures, so be sure to book your accommodation or campsite as far in advance as possible, because they do sell out!
Other Things to Do in Kalbarri National Park
Once you’ve marvelled at the views from the Kalbarri Skywalk, don’t think for a minute that you’ve checked off all that Kalbarri has to offer. There are so many other brilliant things to do in Kalbarri National Park, including:
- Nature’s Window: It’ll feel like the park is showing off when you feast your eyes on this! This natural rock formation creates a stunning frame of the river below, making it a favourite for that epic travel photo. The walk there is easy enough for almost anyone to enjoy.
- Z-Bend Lookout: Get ready for some jaw-dropping views of the Murchison River making its way through the gorge. Feeling adventurous? There’s an option to gear up and rappel down for an up-close look at the ancient rock faces.
- Loop Walk Trail: Lace up your hiking boots for this one. The 8-kilometre trail is more demanding but rewards you with secluded views and the serene sounds of nature that make every step worth it.
- Ross Graham Lookout: Here’s a quieter spot that’s easy to reach but just as rewarding. The lookout offers peaceful river views and is perfect for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.
- Hawk’s Head Lookout: Bird enthusiasts, bring your binoculars! This lookout is a prime spot for watching birds glide over the gorge, with wow-worthy views that go on for miles.
Exploring the Kalbarri National Park Skywalk
After exploring the Kalbarri Skywalk, I hope you leave feeling as amazed by the stunning views as I always do.
It’s a place that offers a chance to truly connect with the spectacular natural beauty of Western Australia that’s so easy to forget about in our busy day-to-day lives. Remember, the drive to the Skywalk is just as memorable as the destination itself, so take your time, enjoy the views, and let Kalbarri leave its mark!
