Kings Canyon Northern Territory Australia

Kings Canyon (see video below – 2:33), Watarrka National Park, is located 450 kilometres south west of Alice Springs in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta region of the Northern Territory.

The Park encompasses the western end of the George Gill Range and is home to a variety of unique native flora and fauna, including over 600 different plant species.

Commercial accommodation can be found within the Park at the Kings Canyon Resort and Kings Creek Station.

The area has also been home to Luritja Aboriginal people for the last 20,000 years. The word Watarrka refers to the umbrella bush that proliferates in this amazing landscape. Combined with an eerie collection of weathered rock formations known as the Lost City and a permanent waterhole veiled by palms and ferns known as the Garden of Eden, a visit to the incredible Kings Canyon is full of surprises.

Kings Canyon has several accommodation options from campsites to luxury hotel units as well as a restaurant, cafe, bar, souvenir shop and fuel pumps.

nestled deep within the heart of the Northern Territory, there’s a lesser-known treasure that deserves equal reverence – Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park.

A Blend of Culture and Geology

Before diving into its captivating geology, it’s essential to note that Kings Canyon is more than just a natural wonder. It’s also a deeply sacred place for the Luritja Aboriginal people. Each rock, pathway, and waterhole holds a story, a cultural significance, making it not just a sight for the eyes but also food for the soul.

The Walks: From Rugged to Relaxing

Kings Canyon offers something for everyone, whether you’re an avid trekker or a casual stroller. The adventurous can take on the Rim Walk, a 6 km circuit that promises breathtaking views from vertiginous heights. While the initial climb can be challenging (it’s fondly nicknamed “Heart Attack Hill”), the reward is truly unparalleled. From the majestic views of the canyon’s towering walls to the lush “Garden of Eden” with its perennial waterhole, the journey offers a sensory overload.

If you’re in the mood for something more tranquil, the Kings Creek Walk at the canyon base provides a more relaxed experience. It’s a 2 km return walk that allows you to appreciate the grandeur of the canyon walls from a grounded perspective.

Tips for Your Visit

Due to the often extreme temperatures, especially during summer, it’s advisable to begin your walk early in the morning. Not only will you beat the heat, but you’ll also witness the soft morning light playing on the canyon walls.

This can’t be stressed enough. Always carry more water than you think you’ll need. The dry climate can be deceptive!

While photos can’t do justice to the beauty of Kings Canyon, they’re a fantastic way to relive the experience. Remember to charge your camera or phone the night before.

This is sacred ground for the indigenous community. Stick to the marked paths and always follow guidelines or requests made by local authorities or signs.