Katherine Gorge
Listed under Canyons in Northern Territory, Australia.
The traditional name of Katherine Gorge is Nitmiluk, and it's one of 13 dramatic gorges along a winding stretch of the Katherine River carved deep into the ochre sandstone cliffs of the surrounding bush over millions of years.
While most people will want to come here to do some walking, for the most spectacular view of the gorges you can take one of several boat tours along the river system or else paddle down it in canoe (BYO or for hire.). The main walking trail is a five day trip along the whole system finishing at spectacular Edith Falls.
Not surprisingly this place has significance to the traditional owners; as well as sacred sites there are caves with rock art, some which the public have access to and some which are hidden and not mapped out. If in your explorations you find a cave with paintings it’s best if you have a look and keep it to yourself, while most rock art is protected as well as possible from the elements the worst thing for it is for too many people to know where it is.
The most comfortable time to visit Katherine is between May and September when it’s coolest and driest. It’s a 300km drive from Darwin on the remote Stuart Highway. There are a couple of campsites in the park, one with powered sites for caravans, other facilities are available in nearby Katherine.
Katherine Region Tourist Association.
Written by 
World Reviewer Staff.
Other expert and press reviews
“Cruising the spirit world”
By Christina Pfeiffer for The Sydney Morning Herald First Published: June 7, 2009 We float past rocky sandstone cliffs that soar above our heads, some 70 metres high. All around us, the sun is shining on an earthy palette of ochre, brick red and burnt … Read more...
Written by press. Continue reading on smh.com.au
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Related links
- Northern Territory travel guide
- Australia travel guide
- Australia travel specialists
- The best Canyons
Goanna
When I was a kid growing up in the Northern Territory I remember telling other kids that I was named after this notable natural wonder so when we finally went camping there I was pretty excited about seeing it. I remember being impressed by the gorge but more impressed by the HUGE goanna we saw who was wandering around by our tent looking like a prospective tenant. We also saw a couple of huge crocs.