
Shothole Canyon
Explore the rugged beauty of Shothole Canyon, a dramatic gorge in Cape Range National Park, offering 4WD adventures and scenic hikes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Shothole Canyon
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the rugged beauty of Shothole Canyon, a dramatic gorge in Cape Range National Park, offering 4WD adventures and scenic hikes.
"As close to a drive up the Star Wars Tattooine canyon as you're going to get."

🚗 4WD Recommended for Drive
The 12km Shothole Canyon road is best suited for 4WD. Be prepared for a bumpy ride if using 2WD.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially for hikes. Flies can be present.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shothole Canyon Drive
Cape Range National Park
A scenic 12km 4WD track winding through the heart of a magnificent gorge with towering cliffs.

Badjirrajirra Walk
Shothole Canyon
A challenging yet rewarding 7.6km hike offering incredible views from the canyon rim.

Canyon Rim Lookout
End of Shothole Canyon Drive
Panoramic views overlooking the rugged landscapes and Exmouth Gulf, perfect for sunrise or sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
4WD Essential for Canyon Drive
Timing is Key for Views & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4WD Recommended for Drive
The 12km Shothole Canyon road is best suited for 4WD. Be prepared for a bumpy ride if using 2WD.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially for hikes. Flies can be present.
🥾 Hiking Boots for Trails
Wear sturdy footwear for the Badjirrajirra Walk and exploring the canyon floor.
📸 Drone Photography
Capture epic aerial shots of the canyon's vastness and rugged beauty.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4WD Recommended for Drive
The 12km Shothole Canyon road is best suited for 4WD. Be prepared for a bumpy ride if using 2WD.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially for hikes. Flies can be present.
🥾 Hiking Boots for Trails
Wear sturdy footwear for the Badjirrajirra Walk and exploring the canyon floor.
📸 Drone Photography
Capture epic aerial shots of the canyon's vastness and rugged beauty.
🚽 Toilet at Lookout
Facilities are available at the end of the canyon drive lookout point.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique geological formations and the immersive experience of driving or hiking through Shothole Canyon. Many find the rugged beauty comparable to iconic movie landscapes. While the drive can be bumpy, the stunning views and sense of remoteness are consistently praised. Some note it's not a 'must-see' for everyone but is highly interesting geologically.
"As close to a drive up the Star Wars Tattooine canyon as you're going to get. The drive is awfully corrugated and post wildfire looks movie set surreal. There is a picnic table and a toilet at the end of the road. Not really a must see destination however but interesting geologically."
gasgasLex
"My wife and I walked to the lookout of Shot Hole Canyon from Charles Knife Canyon! 2 hour, 7km walk! The views around the top of the canyons are much the same until you reach the rim! Although still great to be out and about! If you love hiking like is it is worth it!!"
mjr80ooo
"Nice place to eat a picnic and chill out.
I enjoyed the late afternoon.
Only one car came to disturb the ambient calm.
2wd access."
David Dave
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shothole Canyon is a short 30-minute drive from Exmouth, located within Cape Range National Park. Follow signs for Charles Knife Road and then turn off for Shothole Canyon.
The 12km Shothole Canyon road is primarily recommended for 4WD vehicles due to its corrugated and rugged nature. While some visitors have managed with 2WD, it can be a very bumpy and challenging experience.
Yes, Shothole Canyon is located within the stunning Cape Range National Park in Western Australia, near Exmouth.
The drive through Shothole Canyon is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) long, taking you along the canyon floor.
While the main access is via the 4WD track, the Badjirrajirra Walk allows hikers to experience the canyon from a different perspective, connecting with Charles Knife Canyon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Shothole Canyon is located within Cape Range National Park, which typically has an entry fee per vehicle. Check the Parks and Wildlife Service WA website for current fees.
As it's an outdoor natural attraction within a national park, Shothole Canyon is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's always best to check the official Cape Range National Park operating hours.
While there aren't many dedicated tours specifically for Shothole Canyon, many Exmouth-based tour operators include it as part of broader Cape Range National Park or 4WD adventure tours.
The primary restriction is the recommendation for 4WD vehicles for the drive. Hikers should be prepared for the terrain and weather conditions.
Shothole Canyon is accessible year-round, but visiting during the cooler months (May to October) is generally more comfortable for hiking and driving. Post-wildfire conditions can offer unique visual experiences.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can either drive the 12km track through the canyon floor or hike the Badjirrajirra Walk for a more immersive experience. Both offer stunning geological formations.
The 12km drive typically takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on road conditions and how often you stop to admire the views.
The Badjirrajirra Walk is considered challenging by some, covering 7.6km. It requires good fitness and preparation for the terrain.
While primarily known for its geology, you might spot various bird species and other desert-adapted wildlife within the canyon and surrounding national park.
Yes, there is a picnic table available at the lookout at the end of the Shothole Canyon drive, making it a nice spot to relax.
📸 📸 Photography
The towering canyon walls, rugged rock formations, and panoramic views from the rim lookout offer incredible photographic potential. Sunrise and sunset shots are particularly stunning.
Absolutely! Drone footage captures the immense scale and dramatic landscape of Shothole Canyon beautifully, showcasing its unique geological features.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise at the lookout is highly recommended.
Bring your camera, extra batteries, memory cards, and consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the expansive canyon views. A polarizing filter can help manage glare.
The lookout at the end of the 4WD track offers a prime spot for panoramic shots. The Badjirrajirra Walk also provides elevated perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Adventure Seekers & 4WD Enthusiasts
🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Shothole Canyon: Drive vs. Hike
The Badjirrajirra Walk is a more strenuous but equally rewarding option for hikers. This 7.6km trail winds through the canyon, offering elevated perspectives and a chance to truly connect with the natural environment. It's a challenging hike that rewards visitors with incredible views from the canyon rim, showcasing the vastness of the surrounding outback. Remember to carry ample water, wear sturdy hiking boots, and be prepared for the elements.
Both experiences offer unique insights into the geological history of the area, with the canyon's name stemming from the shot holes left by oil exploration in the 1950s. Whether you choose to drive or hike, Shothole Canyon promises a memorable adventure.
The Geology and History of Shothole Canyon
Beyond its geological significance, the canyon holds a unique post-wildfire beauty. Visitors have noted a surreal, movie-set quality to the landscape after fires, transforming the terrain into something otherworldly. This cyclical nature of fire and regeneration adds another layer to the canyon's character, making each visit potentially unique. The geological features and the history of exploration combine to make Shothole Canyon a fascinating destination for those interested in both natural history and human impact.
Photography Tips for Shothole Canyon
Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the immense scale of the canyon, especially when driving along the floor or standing at the rim lookout. Drone photography is also highly recommended here, as aerial shots can truly showcase the vastness and unique patterns of the canyon. Remember to pack essentials like extra batteries, memory cards, and a polarizing filter to manage glare. Be mindful of the flies, especially during warmer months, and consider a fly net if they become bothersome.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit