The Kings Canyon Rim Walk in Watarrka National Park is one of Australia’s best and most popular walks, in the heart of the Northern Territory’s Red Centre. 3.5 hours from Alice Springs, this 6km loop is famous for its views, rough terrain and deep connection to nature and Aboriginal culture. If you want an adventure that’s all outback, this is it.
To get the most out of your experience many take a Kings Canyon Tours where you’ll have expert guides to share stories of the canyon’s history, geology and culture. Whether you’re self guided or on a tour the Rim Walk is an outback adventure you’ll never forget.
Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park
Kings Canyon is the main feature of Watarrka National Park, a natural wonder of massive vertical walls, weathered sandstone domes and deep valleys below. The canyon was formed over millions of years of erosion and the cliffs rise high above the canyon floor. Watarrka National Park is also home to a high biodiversity and Aboriginal culture, the traditional owners of the land the Luritja people have a strong connection to the area.
The Kings Canyon Rim Walk is the only way to see this landscape, with access to the canyon’s views and hidden gems like the Garden of Eden. This tough but rewarding walk is a rite of passage for those visiting the Red Centre of Australia, combining nature and culture.
What is the Kings Canyon Rim Walk?
The Kings Canyon Rim Walk is a 6km loop that takes about 3-4 hours to complete. The walk is famous for its views of the canyon floor, rough terrain and the initial climb. The walk starts with the steep climb up Heart Attack Hill and then you’re in for a tough but rewarding adventure. Once the climb is done the rest of the walk is much easier, following the canyon walls around the rim and with views of the George Gill Range and the Larapinta Drive.
It’s not just a physical challenge, it’s a journey through time, with ancient sandstone domes and layers of rock telling the story of the area’s geology. The walk also has quieter moments of contemplation in places like the Garden of Eden, a hidden waterhole that’s a lush oasis in the desert. You’ll pass cliff edges that drop 100m to the canyon floor below and get great photo opportunities and a sense of the scale of this natural wonder.
Key Highlights of the Rim Walk
1. Heart Attack Hill
The Kings Canyon Rim Walk starts with Heart Attack Hill and for good reason. This steep bit involves a series of stone steps that go straight up from the bottom of the canyon. Take your time, take breaks, stay hydrated. The views as you climb are spectacular.
2. The Lost City
Once you’ve done the initial climb you’ll get to The Lost City. This bit is full of strange and beautiful sandstone domes that look like the ruins of an ancient city. The rock formations here are amazing – millions of years of wind and water erosion have carved these natural wonders. Take your time to stop and look at the detail.
3. The Garden of Eden
A short side track will take you down into the Garden of Eden, one of the most peaceful and beautiful parts of the walk. This lush oasis, deep in the canyon, has a permanent waterhole surrounded by ancient cycads and greenery. It’s a world away from the desert above and a cool, shaded retreat. If the weather permits, it’s a great place to stop, have a snack and take in the scenery. Just check the forecast if you plan to do this in the hotter months.
4. The South Wall
The South Wall is next along the rim and is one of the most dramatic parts of the canyon with cliffs that drop straight down to the bottom of the canyon. From here you’ll have the best views of the whole walk, with the whole of Watarrka National Park spread out before you. This is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset when the orange rock glows.
5. Cotterill’s Bridge
Next you’ll cross Cotterill’s Bridge, a narrow crossing with more great views of the canyon. This is a good spot to stop and take a photo as the views are especially good here. The deep gorges and vertical walls of the canyon make a great backdrop to capture the beauty of Kings Canyon.
Best Time to do the Rim Walk
The best time to visit and do the Kings Canyon Rim Walk is April to September when the weather is cooler. Daytime temperatures in the Red Centre can be extreme, often over 40°C (104°F) in summer (December to February). Hiking in these conditions is dangerous and the park may close the Rim Walk during extreme heat. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, start your hike early in the morning when it’s cooler.
Winter is the best time to hike, cool nights and mild days. Cold winter nights in the desert are perfect for camping, especially at Kings Creek Station or Kings Canyon Resort where the night sky is amazing for stargazing.
How to prepare for the Rim Walk
Preparation is key to enjoying the Kings Canyon Tour safely. Here’s what to do:
- Bring lots of water: 3-4 litres per person. Even in cooler weather the desert air can dehydrate you quickly.
- Wear suitable footwear: Rocky and uneven terrain so good hiking boots or shoes with grip are essential.
- Check the weather: Always check the forecast before you go, especially in summer. Don’t hike during the heat of the day.
- Sun protection: Little shade along the trail so a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and high SPF sunscreen are a must.
- Fitness level: While the initial climb is the toughest part, moderate fitness is recommended to enjoy the walk.
- Safety: Be mindful of the cliff edges, follow the blue arrows and carry a mobile or emergency call device.
Flora and Fauna along the Rim Walk
Watarrka National Park has as diverse and fascinating flora and fauna as you’ll find anywhere. On the Rim Walk you’ll see ancient cycads, ghost gums and spinifex grasses all adapted to the outback conditions. The Garden of Eden is a highlight, where plants have thrived for thousands of years.
Wildlife enthusiasts will love the chance to see rock wallabies, spinifex pigeons and various lizards that live in the canyon. At certain times of the year you might even see dingoes roaming around. Birdwatchers will enjoy the variety of species that visit the canyon, making this a nature lover’s paradise.
Accommodation near Kings Canyon
There are plenty of options to stay near Kings Canyon to suit all budgets and tastes. The Discovery Kings Canyon Resort is the most popular option with luxury lodges to budget cabins. For a more rustic experience Kings Creek Station has camping and safari style accommodation. It’s also a great place to learn about the cattle industry that has played a big part in the area’s history.
Camping is available within Watarrka National Park so you can experience the canyon under the stars. Facilities are basic but the views and solitude are worth it. The cheapest option is at the Salt Creek Rest Area just down the road, perfect for those on a tight budget or in campervans.
How to Get to Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon is accessible from Alice Springs via the Larapinta Drive or from Ayers Rock Airport via Luritja Road. Both ways are scenic outback drives, 4 hours from Alice Springs and 3 hours from Ayers Rock. The roads are sealed all the way to Watarrka National Park. If you want a more adventurous route the Ernest Giles Road is a dirt track option.
Conclusion
The Kings Canyon Rim Walk is the ultimate hike in one of Australia’s most famous landscapes. From the tough start to the serene Garden of Eden and the cliff edges that drop into deep gorges, there’s something for everyone. It’s not just a walk – it’s a journey through history, Aboriginal culture and natural beauty.
Whether you’re an experienced walker or just a nature lover the Rim Walk is a must do on any trip to Central Australia. With its views, biodiversity and spiritual significance this walk will be etched in your memory forever.
FAQs
Is the Kings Canyon Rim Walk suitable for all fitness levels?
The walk is classified as moderate but the start is steep and challenging so you need to be fairly fit. There are easier walks like the Kings Creek Walk and Kathleen Springs Walk if you want a more gentle experience.
Can I do the walk in summer?
Yes but not recommended. Daytime temperatures in summer can reach 40°C or more so it’s not safe. Best to visit between April and September when the weather is cooler.
What to bring?
Bring water (at least 3 to 4 litres), sun protection and sturdy boots. Check the weather and avoid the hottest part of the day.
How long does the walk take?
The Rim Walk is a 6km loop and takes 3 to 4 hours to complete depending on your pace and how many times you stop to take in the views.
Other nearby?
Kings Creek Station, Kathleen Springs, Giles Track (22km) overposting.
