Kings Canyon Rim Walk
Hike the rim of an ancient sandstone canyon, marveling at dramatic rock formations and breathtaking desert vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Kings Canyon Rim Walk
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike the rim of an ancient sandstone canyon, marveling at dramatic rock formations and breathtaking desert vistas.
"One of the best family walks in Central Australia, offering stunning views and a memorable adventure."
👟 Wear sturdy shoes!
Good grip is essential for the rocky paths and steep stairs. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring ample water!
Refill stations are available, but carry more than you think you'll need. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Stairway to Heaven
Start of the Rim Walk
The iconic 500+ steps ascending to the canyon rim. A challenging but rewarding start with breathtaking views.
Garden of Eden
Off the main Rim Walk loop
A lush, hidden oasis with a permanent waterhole, offering a stark contrast to the arid landscape.
The Lost City
Along the Rim Walk
A fascinating area of weathered sandstone domes and formations, resembling an ancient, abandoned city.
Sunrise Spectacle
Canyon Rim
Witness the canyon glow orange as the sun rises, painting the landscape in spectacular hues.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb: Start Early!
+2Hydration is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes!
Good grip is essential for the rocky paths and steep stairs. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring ample water!
Refill stations are available, but carry more than you think you'll need. :droplet:
☀️ Sun protection is vital
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must for this exposed environment. :sunwithface:
⏰ Start early to avoid heat
Sunrise hikes are popular for cooler temps and fewer people. :sunrise:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes!
Good grip is essential for the rocky paths and steep stairs. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring ample water!
Refill stations are available, but carry more than you think you'll need. :droplet:
☀️ Sun protection is vital
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must for this exposed environment. :sunwithface:
⏰ Start early to avoid heat
Sunrise hikes are popular for cooler temps and fewer people. :sunrise:
👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly fun
Kids as young as 5 can manage with encouragement! :child: +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Kings Canyon Rim Walk for its breathtaking scenery and unique geological formations, calling it a highlight of the Northern Territory. While the initial climb is challenging, most find it manageable with breaks and are rewarded with spectacular views. Some find the canyon itself slightly underwhelming compared to expectations, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, especially for families.
"Really nice hike took us about 3.5 hours with an easy pace and lots of stopping with 2 kids at 10 and 13 years old. Great views and a not very difficult hike in winter. Bring water and the trail is easy to follow and very well marked. It’s one of the highly visited trails so there were
Many people out there. You need some medium fitness but wasn’t too hard to do the hike."
Robert Lee
"We did the rim walk in September mid morning and it was a good temperature and no flies. The steep stairs at the start were hard, there is seats halfway, just take your time and don't tire yourself out.
It was quite busy on the walk and once you get around and past the big bus tours and find your own space it is nice. Lots of spots to stop and check out the scenery and views.
The actual canyon I thought was slightly underwhelming, but once you get to the other side the view is cool and the rock formations are cool too. We saw 1 lizard the whole walk.
There was ample parking and the shaded area at the start provides information and water refill. Toilets nearby and clean."
Lauren Burk
"I hiked the first half with my two boys, 5 and 7 yo. We started with the short creek back and worth that we covered in less than 40min so we then decided to join the rim walk for the first section. It’s a steep incline on rocks, it was raining so parts of it was slippery. The kids loved climbing up and it’s formed as a staircase so it was somewhat easy and fast for them to hike up. The view from up there is beautiful and worth it, but I decided to head back to the parking lot to be safe. The total hike is 3-4hours and I am sure it is worth it: you get to see the lost city and the Eden garden. Would come back and do this hike straight up and skip the short creek walk. If your kids are good walkers they are capable, I just felt my 5yo was not ready yet for the challenge."
Maxime Bigot
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kings Canyon is located in Watarrka National Park, Northern Territory, Australia. The most common way to access it is by driving. The sealed road from Lasseter's Highway is well-maintained. Many visitors combine it with a trip to Uluru and Alice Springs.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Kings Canyon Resort and the Watarrka National Park visitor centre, which is the starting point for the Rim Walk.
The nearest major airport is Ayers Rock Airport (Connellan Airport) near Uluru, which is about a 3-hour drive away. From there, you would typically rent a car to reach Kings Canyon.
Driving is the most popular method. The journey takes approximately 3 hours on a sealed road. Many tour operators also offer transfers or day trips.
Public transport directly to Kings Canyon is very limited. Most visitors rely on rental cars or organized tours from Alice Springs or Uluru.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Watarrka National Park and the Kings Canyon Rim Walk is free. However, accommodation and tours at Kings Canyon Resort are paid.
The Rim Walk is accessible during daylight hours. It's highly recommended to start early in the morning to avoid the heat and complete the walk before sunset.
No, there is no entrance fee to Watarrka National Park, which includes access to the Kings Canyon Rim Walk.
The Rim Walk does not require advance booking as it's a free, self-guided trail within the national park.
The park may have temporary closures due to extreme weather conditions, such as heat or rain. Always check park alerts before your visit.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The 6km loop typically takes 3-4 hours at a leisurely pace, allowing for stops to admire the scenery. Some visitors, especially with kids, complete it faster. +1
It's generally considered moderate to challenging. The initial 500+ steps are strenuous, but the rest of the walk is mostly flat with some rocky sections.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with good grip. Lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunglasses are essential.
Toilets are available at the start of the trail near the visitor centre. There are no facilities along the main loop of the Rim Walk itself.
Yes, many families with young children (even as young as 5) have successfully completed the walk with encouragement. The initial climb can be managed with breaks. +2
Due to the steep initial climb and uneven terrain, the Rim Walk is not suitable for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility challenges.
While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, you might spot lizards, various bird species, and insects. The Garden of Eden offers a chance to see more diverse flora and fauna.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Kings Canyon Resort offers dining options, including a restaurant and a cafe. There are also picnic areas at the start of the walk.
It's recommended to bring snacks and plenty of water. There are no food services along the trail itself.
There are water refill stations at the start of the trail near the visitor centre. It's crucial to fill up before you begin.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, with the canyon walls glowing in warm, red hues. Mid-morning can also be good before the harsh midday sun.
Expect stunning panoramic views of the canyon, unique sandstone formations, the lush Garden of Eden, and the vast desert landscape.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check the Parks Australia website for specific regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Start your hike early to beat the heat and conserve energy. Bring plenty of water and snacks. The 'Lost City' section is a particular hit with younger explorers. Assess your child's stamina, and don't hesitate to take breaks or consider shorter sections if needed.
☀️ Budget Travelers
To save money: Pack your own food and snacks for the hike. Consider camping if available or look for more basic accommodation options outside the main resort. Many visitors drive their own vehicles, which is often more economical than organized tours for longer stays.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and a telephoto lens for details. Be prepared for the challenging initial climb, but the rewards in terms of photographic subjects are immense. The Garden of Eden also provides a unique contrast for nature photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Kings Canyon Rim Walk
+1The most talked-about feature is the initial ascent: a challenging climb of over 500 steps that leads you to the canyon's rim. While daunting, this climb is often described as a 'stairway to heaven' and is rewarded with unparalleled views. Once on the rim, the terrain becomes more varied, featuring rocky paths, sandy stretches, and opportunities to explore side attractions like the Garden of Eden and the Lost City.
+2Many visitors highlight the importance of timing and preparation. Starting early, especially during warmer months, is crucial to avoid the intense heat. Bringing plenty of water, wearing appropriate footwear, and protecting yourself from the sun are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Despite the initial challenge, the Rim Walk is frequently praised as a highlight of any trip to the Northern Territory, offering a profound connection with the natural environment.
Family Adventures at Kings Canyon
Tips for families include starting the walk early to keep energy levels high and avoid the midday sun. The varied terrain and unique rock formations keep children engaged, and the 'Lost City' section is particularly captivating for younger explorers. The Garden of Eden also offers a refreshing contrast and a chance to see a different side of the canyon's ecosystem.
While the full Rim Walk is manageable, parents should assess their child's stamina and willingness to hike. Some families opt for shorter sections or the easier Creek Walk if they have very young children or concerns about the strenuous start. Overall, it's a highly recommended family activity that creates lasting memories.
Photography Opportunities
The best light for photography is undoubtedly during sunrise and sunset. As the sun crests the horizon or dips below it, the canyon walls are bathed in a warm, golden-red glow, creating a truly magical spectacle. This is when the 'ancient feel' of the place is most palpable.
+1When planning your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the grand scale of the landscape. Don't forget to capture the details too – the textures of the rock formations, the sparse vegetation clinging to the cliffs, and the play of light and shadow. The Garden of Eden also presents opportunities for more intimate shots of water and plant life.
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