Motor Car Falls – Boulder Creek – Kurrundie Creek
Are you looking for an outback adventure? The Yurmikmik Walks in Kakadu National Park are an amazing experience you can enjoy all year!
These bushwalking trails are among the best in the park, especially during the Wet Season. To get there, drive about 140 km south from Jabiru on the Kakadu Highway. Turn onto Gimbat Road, which is signposted as the Gunlom turn-off. The start of the walks is another 22 km down Gimbat Road on your right.
You’ll find a large car park with picnic tables and clear signs showing the different walks: Motor Car Falls, Boulder Creek, Kurrundie Creek, and Yurmikmik Lookout.
Motor Car Falls
This is the most popular walk. It’s a 3.8 km hike one way and is well worth the effort. The park rates this walk as moderate. For the most part, the path is easy and well-marked, though there’s not much shade. The last 10 minutes involve climbing over rocks, but you’ll be guided by the sound of the waterfall.
The waterfall tumbles into a deep pool below. If the falls are strong, the water will be crystal clear. You might even see long-necked turtles, small fish, and cherubin. Swim across the pool to sit under the waterfall and explore the small cave behind it. Be aware that the waterfall might dry up late in the dry season.
Boulder Creek
This is a hidden gem with a much shorter trail than Motor Car Falls. It’s a 2 km return trip to a double waterfall that is a true Territory treasure. The walk is beautiful, and during the Wet Season, the plants are an intense green. The rushing water is a great place to cool off in the pools. The walk to the bottom of the falls is easy, but getting to the top pool requires a moderate scramble over rocks.
Kurrundie Creek
This walk is for serious adventurers. The 11 km return trip takes about 7 hours, and very few people do it. Kurrundie has a spectacular series of waterfalls, but the park rates this walk as difficult. The track is not marked. Start your walk early to avoid the heat, and be sure to bring plenty of water. Camping is available here with a permit.
Useful Information
Distance: 162 km south of Jabiru. Drive south on the Kakadu Highway and turn onto Gimbat Road (Gunlom turn-off). The walks are on your right.
Facilities: Limited. There is a car park and picnic tables. Bring your own drinking water.
Camping: A permit is required to camp. There are no toilets or showers.
Access: The walks are generally open all year. You can access the area with a 2WD vehicle during the Dry Season (May to September). Check with the Bowali Visitor Centre for access during the Wet Season (October to May).
