Mitchell Falls Walking Track in the Kimberley: Full Guide!
If you’ve ever dreamt of exploring the rugged Kimberley in Western Australia, then Mitchell Falls (Punamii-Uunpuu) is one of the region’s ultimate bucket-list experiences. With its dramatic four-tiered cascade surrounded by ancient sandstone escarpments, this remote wonder captures the raw beauty of Australia’s northwest like nowhere else.
But here’s the catch, reaching Mitchell Falls isn’t as simple as pulling up to a car park. The walk itself is long and challenging, and just getting to the trailhead involves remote roads, river crossings, and often a 4WD. First-time visitors often ask: how difficult is the track? how long will it take? is it really worth the effort?
Having experienced this incredible part of the Kimberley, I can share everything you need to know about the Mitchell Falls walking track. I’ll give you a complete breakdown of my experience, and why this remote gem should be at the top of your Kimberley adventure list.
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Is Mitchell Falls & the Walking Tack Worth Doing?
I think Mitchell Falls is without doubt one of the most impressive and rewarding waterfalls in the country. This four-tiered cascade plunges dramatically into deep emerald pools below, surrounded by rugged red rock cliffs and ancient landscapes that feel untouched by time.
It’s location in the Northern part of Western Australia (please see map here), in the remote Kimberley region. Not only is it one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in Australia, but the journey to get there, whether by 4WD adventure, hiking the Mitchell Plateau track, or by scenic helicopter flight, makes the experience even more memorable.
Its scale, beauty, and remote setting truly make Mitchell Falls a bucket-list destination for anyone exploring the Kimberley.
Note: The traditional landowners are The Worrora, Wunambal-Gaambera, and Ngarinyin people.
Punamii-Unpuu Walking Track: What to Expect?
How long is the walking track?
The Punamii- Unpuu Walking Track (Mitchell Falls) is an 8.6 kilometres return walk and will take roughly 4 to 6 hours. It is considered a long hike, but one that takes you through some of the most stunning scenery and wildlife in Australia, so it’s well worth it.
As you meander down the path, you’ll get up close to the falls from various spots, giving you some truly remarkable photo opportunities or simply a chance to absorb every view as best as possible.
How difficult is the Track?
The Mitchell Falls track is a moderate to difficult walking trail and should only be considered by those use to some long-distance walking. The terrain is steep but manageable, but only if you bring the right gear and clothing.
You should wear closed-in shoes(preferably ankle supporting), carry plenty of water, and a backpack with supplies like snacks and a first aid kit. Also, be prepared for a waist-deep water crossing or pay for the helicopter over the river.
The River Crossing
Almost to the end of the track is a river crossing, which will position you in front of the Falls and the best photo spot on the ground. The crossing is about 20 metres wide, and you will slowly walk over while carrying your gear.
Note: Hiking poles could help for this section.
How long into the dry season will obviously determine how much water is here. So, you could be walking in “knee to waist” high water across the creek and, therefore, a little wet for the rest of the hike. You will also run the risk of falling over and getting completely soaked.
Note: There is an option could be to bypass the walking and jump into a helicopter instead. This is what I did, and definitely worth the experience.
Helicopter Flight
Please don’t confuse the Flight to Mitchell Falls with the Helicopter flight over the river. The Flight from Kununurra or Broome is on a very small fixed-wing plane, while the Flights around the Falls are by Helicopter and are based near the camping ground.
Therefore, you can choose to walk the whole 8.6 kilometres return and the creek crossing, or some opt to take the helicopter one way to reduce the time and avoid getting wet.
Surprisingly, this is not just a helicopter ride over the creek, but in fact, a small 5 minutes overhead tour of Mitchell Falls from every angle.
After taking this flight, I determined this was one of the best waterfalls I’ve seen in Australia.
Explore the rest of the Punamii-Unpuu Trail.
The rest of the trail will wander through several sites like Little Mertens Falls, Mertens Gorge, a couple of Indigenous Art sites & Big Mertens Falls. The whole area has untouched beauty, and the hike is well worth the trip.
Above all, please take care when hiking in different areas, particularly near cliff edges and through rocky outcrops. There might also be some wildlife wandering around, so be aware and try to avoid disturbing them.
Please note: all visitors to the National Park will need to purchase a Uunguu visitor pass.
How to Get to Mitchell River National Park?
Getting there by Road!
Driving is no easy task, being over 500 kilometres (9 hours) journey from Kununurra, but it is possible. This mainly drives on the Gibb River Road in a Four Wheel Drive vehicle, then on the Mitchell Plateau Track.
It would help if you allowed about two days to safely and comfortably get there ( From Kununurra) as the road is not heavily maintained and could be lots of holes. The Plateau track is 85 kilometres long to the camping area and will require your most attention.
More importantly, if the road is open, you will still need to check the depth of the water before driving through creek crossings.
Know that in the rainy season (summer), these Falls aren’t generally accessible by road, and the only way you can get there is by using flights. Not only that, but the summertime (November to March) temperatures soar to all-time highs, and the area is closed for land traffic.
Getting there by Air
Flying there is obviously the easiest (and it’s how I got there), but it’s also the most expensive. However, when deliberating the price, you must consider its out-of-reach location and how far away it is from any significant town.
➡ Find Scenic Flights to Mitchell Falls HERE with Viator from Broome.
Although, there is a difference between taking a scenic flight tour over the Falls or getting dropped off by plane at the fixed glamping accommodation. My trip entailed this, and I found it more affordable than the day trip scenic flights.
It also allowed me to explore on the ground and the Walking trail.
At any rate, if you’re limited for time, then maybe a Day trip scenic flight is all you can do.
Packaged Bus tour & Flight
At the time, I opted for a tour around the Kimberley region, including the Bungle Bungles & Mitchell Falls. This was a full-packaged four-wheel-drive group tour from Broome to Kununurra, with Flights & accommodation.
➡ Check prices for a Kimberley Multi-Day Tour HERE with Viator.
Ultimately, this whole trip was rather expensive but cost-effective, with the entire package and amount of unique sites ticked off my bucket list.
FAQ’s – Common Questions?
Can you swim?
Swimming is not permitted below Mitchell Falls, first for sacred reasons and, secondly, due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles. However, if you’re looking for a spot to swim and enjoy gorgeous scenery, don’t miss Little Mertens Falls.
It’s tucked away about 800m from the campground, you can take a dip in the natural spas that dot the area or simply sit back and soak up the beauty of the falls themselves. And if you’re a history buff, you won’t want to miss the incredible Gwion Gwion artwork on the gorge walls beneath the falls.
Are there Bathrooms?
The closest Bathrooms to the track will be at the campground or the fixed accommodation you’ve booked into. Therefore, I recommend using these before venturing on the walking track.
How Big are the Falls?
Mitchell Falls is an awe-inspiring 4-tiered cascading waterfall totalling 80 metres high and each tier ranging from 4 to 18 metres in height – quite a breath-taking sight! However, the sky-high waterfall looks even more stunning when loaded with water during the wet season.
How many Days do you need there?
Since you can hike the track in one day, you only need two nights or one day to visit. I guess this is why people weigh up the options of taking a couple of days to drive in against the limited time you have at the Falls.
Therefore, you can stay longer to see more of the area and take your time.
Best time to visit?
The best time to visit is during the Dry season from April to September. It does flow with a good amount of water all year round! But it is worth noting that the volume of water does diminish a little during the dry season.
While many other waterfalls are best viewed during the rainy season, these are an exception to the rule. Especially when it all comes down to accessibility and availability.
The dryer season provides more access to the falls, making it easier for visitors to enjoy their breathtaking beauty without getting bogged down in wet and muddy conditions. Plus, the cooler winter weather provides a much more comfortable environment for exploring the area.
Where to Stay?
Camping
The camping spots are well spread out and have basic facilities. There are toilets but no showers, and you can access filtered drinking water from the taps or upstream in Mertens Creek.
Wilderness Lodge
Don’t want to camp? Then the Wilderness Lodge has glamping tents available for those that need them. I stayed in these glamping tents and found them excellent, just like a small resort.
The tents each contained two single beds and a basic shower and toilet and were very comfortable for what you need. Additionally, they have open-air dining, meals, and a bar. The price is expensive, but a great alternative to convenience and creature comforts. However, the area can get cool in the evenings, so make sure you bring layers.
Safety on the Hike!
- Never jump off the rocks into the waterhole.
- The rocks are sharp and sometimes slippery, so go slowly.
- Wear closed-in shoes on walking tracks (preferably ankle supporting).
- Carry a small first aid kit for minor cuts.
- Take plenty of water, a few snacks, and wear sunscreen. There is no sun or shade at the rock pools.
- Always keep children within viewing distance.
- Never via off-the-formed tracks.
- Be aware of wildlife and stay away from dangerous animals. Make sure you look up for Koalas, as there are plenty around.
- Leave only footprints and take only photos. This also means taking all rubbish with you.
- Don’t destroy the natural environment.
- Know your own limits.
- Don’t swim alone, and don’t put yourself or others at risk.
- For all emergencies, call (000)
- Do not walk alone, and stay away from cliff edges
Wrap up & Read More!
Thanks for reading this blog post today on How to get to Mitchell Falls & walking Track in the Kimberley region. I hope you found what you were looking for. Although, If you’re still researching, then please check out my other Western Australian Blogs for inspiration.
