Located within Watarrka National Park, Kings Canyon is one of the Northern Territory’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Towering sandstone cliffs, hidden rock pools, and ancient palm-filled valleys make this destination a must-visit for adventurers exploring the Red Centre. Just a few hours from Uluru, Kings Canyon offers spectacular hikes, cultural insights, and stunning outback landscapes that showcase the beauty of Central Australia.
Things to Do at Kings Canyon
Hike the Kings Canyon Rim Walk
The Rim Walk is the park’s most famous activity. This 6 km loop takes about 3–4 hours and rewards hikers with sweeping views of the canyon’s sandstone cliffs, domes, and lush valleys. Highlights include the Garden of Eden, a waterhole surrounded by greenery, and the Lost City, a maze of weathered rock formations.
Explore the Creek Bed Walk
For a shorter and easier option, the Kings Creek Walk follows the canyon floor. This 2 km return trail offers views of towering cliffs and is perfect for those looking for a relaxed stroll.
Visit Kathleen Springs
Located nearby, Kathleen Springs Walk is a gentle 2.6 km return track leading to a spring-fed waterhole. Along the way, interpretive signs share stories of Aboriginal culture and cattle station history.
Helicopter Tours
For a unique perspective, take a scenic helicopter flight over Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park. It’s the best way to appreciate the vast scale of the Red Centre.
Learn About Aboriginal Culture
Join a guided cultural tour with the local Luritja people to discover Dreamtime stories, traditional bush foods, and the spiritual significance of the land.
Where to Eat at Kings Canyon
Dining options are limited but memorable, blending outback hospitality with spectacular settings:
- Kings Canyon Resort – Carmichael’s Restaurant: Serves hearty Australian meals and local specialties in a casual setting.
- Outback BBQ & Grill (Kings Canyon Resort): A fun, family-friendly dining experience offering classic Aussie BBQ fare under the stars.
- Kings Creek Station Café: Famous for its camel burgers, milkshakes, and fresh-baked treats – perfect for a quick stop before or after a hike.
Bars & Nightlife
Kings Canyon is all about stargazing and relaxing evenings rather than buzzing nightlife, but you can still enjoy a drink in the outback:
- Thirsty Dingo Bar (Kings Canyon Resort): A laid-back bar serving cold beers and cocktails, often with live music.
- Under the Desert Sky: Opt for a starlit dining experience at Kings Canyon Resort, where you can enjoy a three-course meal paired with incredible views of the Milky Way.
When to Go to Kings Canyon
- Winter (May–September): The best time to visit, with cooler daytime temperatures perfect for hiking (average 20–25°C).
- Summer (December–February): Extremely hot, often exceeding 40°C, making hikes dangerous during the middle of the day. Only early morning walks are recommended.
- Spring & Autumn (March–April, October–November): Shoulder seasons bring warm weather and fewer crowds but can still be quite hot.
Final Thoughts on Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon is an unforgettable destination in Australia’s Red Centre, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re tackling the Rim Walk, savoring a camel burger at Kings Creek Station, or gazing at the Milky Way after a day of exploration, Kings Canyon promises a once-in-a-lifetime outback experience. For those exploring Uluru, Alice Springs, or the wider Northern Territory, this incredible canyon deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.