Trail Fast Facts
Walker Creek to Florence Falls is an 13.8km, grade 4 hike in Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory. This hike typically takes 1-2 days to complete.
Warning
Walking in hot weather can be dangerous and sometimes even deadly. If you’re planning this hike, make sure you’re prepared. Notify a reliable person of your intended route and expected return time. Carry a satellite phone or PLB (personal locator beacon). You should also have a topographic map and GPS. Swim only in designated areas. Carry and drink plenty of water. Avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day.
Hike Overview
The Walker Creek to Florence Falls section of the Tabletop Track in Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory, Australia, offers hikers a picturesque and engaging experience through diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
The Walker Creek to Florence Falls section offers a scenic 13.8-kilometre leg of the Litchfield Tabletop Track, graded as moderate (Grade 3). Allow one to two days to complete this section at a comfortable pace.
The landscape along this track transforms dramatically as you progress from Walker Creek towards Florence Falls. Hikers will encounter unusual sandstone formations and pockets of lush rainforest, providing a refreshing contrast to the open savannah woodlands that dominate much of the Tabletop Track. Keep an eye out for the distinctive cluster of castle-shaped boulders scattered along the way.
A highlight of this section is a vibrant rainforest area that showcases the diversity of the park's flora. The final leg involves a relatively steep climb as you near Florence Falls, marking the most challenging ascent on this portion of the track. Along the way, you’ll encounter scenic waterfalls, waterholes, and creeks, which add to the track's allure and offer opportunities for refreshing breaks.
Ensure you are an experienced, fit, and well-prepared bushwalker, as there are minimal facilities along the trail. Be aware that the threat of wildfires may occasionally close the track. Enjoy the stunning scenery and immerse yourself in the remote wilderness of the Top End during this memorable hike.
Note: The length shown is based on recorded measurements and not the 10.7km length promoted by the Parks & Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory. There was a notable discrepancy, and it is safer to overstate rather than understate the distance.
Track Grade
Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Tips
- The best time to hike is during the dry season (May to October) to avoid extreme heat and heavy rainfall.
- Carry sufficient water as natural water sources may not be potable.
- Sturdy hiking boots are recommended due to the rocky and uneven terrain.
- Inform someone about your hiking plan and expected return time.
- Camping is only permitted in designated areas. If planning to camp, ensure to book designated camping spots ahead of time.
- Swim only in designated areas - heed all signs.
- Parks may close unexpectedly due to bushfires, flooding or park maintenance.
- Before you go, check if the park is open.
- Always check for any park alerts or permits required before starting your hike.
- Flying your drone - get a permit before you arrive.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 192 m
Min elevation: 78 m
Total climbing: 236 m
Total descent: -234 m
Trailhead
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Getting there
Is travelling from Darwin, head south on Stuart Highway for about 1.5 hours until you see the turnoff for Batchelor Road. Follow this well-maintained road through Batchelor and Rum Jungle townships, keeping an eye out for signs for Litchfield National Park. Upon entering the park, continue along the sealed park road. After some distance, look out for signs for Wangi Falls. Take this turnoff and follow the road for a short while. You'll then see a designated track for Walker Creek. This track leads to the carpark and trailhead for the Walker Creek to Florence Falls hike.
Photo gallery
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
About the region
Litchfield National Park: A Natural Wonder of the Northern Territory. Litchfield National Park, encompassing roughly 1,500 square kilometres, is a jewel of the Northern Territory. This ancient landscape, shaped by water over millennia, boasts a captivating array of natural wonders. Cascading waterfalls tumble from the sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range, forming crystal-clear pools ideal for swimming.
The park is significant to the Koongurrukun, Mak Mak Marranunggu, Werat, and Warray Aboriginal people, with their ancestral stories woven into the very fabric of the landscape. Visitors can explore shady monsoon forest walking trails, marvel at the unique magnetic termite mounds, or be awestruck by the weathered sandstone pillars of the Lost City.
A Haven for Adventure: Litchfield National Park offers endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you seek refreshment beneath cascading waterfalls, marvel at fascinating termite mounds, discover hidden waterholes, or challenge yourself on hiking trails, this park caters to all interests. Camping is the primary accommodation option within the park boundaries, but various lodges and resorts are located nearby for those seeking different comforts. Even a well-planned day trip can allow visitors to experience the park's highlights.
History and Accessibility: The park's name honours Frederick Henry Litchfield, a member of the Finniss Expedition, the first European encounter with this region. Extensive mining for tin and copper dominated the area from the late 1800s until the mid-20th century. Declared a national park in 1986, Litchfield has become a haven for nature lovers.
While a sealed road connects the park's major attractions, a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to access The Lost City, Homestead, Central Valley, and the Reynolds River Track. During the dry season, this track allows experienced drivers to reach the Daly River Road. Renting a vehicle? Confirm if it's permitted on unsealed roads.
Accessibility is twofold. The park can be reached via the southern entrance near Batchelor or the northern entrance along Peninsula Way, forming the Litchfield Loop. This loop integrates the park with the Cox Peninsula, creating a more extensive sightseeing experience.
A Local Favourite: Litchfield National Park's pristine swimming holes and scenic walking tracks make it a cherished destination for Darwin residents. Basic amenities like meals and refreshments are available near Wangi Falls, while various accommodation options cater to different budgets and preferences, including campsites, cabins, and caravan parks within or near the park, and lodging options in the nearby township of Batchelor.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Litchfield National Park? Try these hikes or bushwalks.
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.