The Badbong Wodjmeng Sandstone River Walk in Kakadu National Park presents a challenging 7.5-kilometre loop trail for experienced hikers. With an estimated completion time of 4 hours, this Grade 4 hike traverses alongside the East Alligator River, offering a glimpse of sandstone formations, pandanus- fringed pools, and the river itself.
Due to the trail's difficulty and potential dangers, a good level of fitness is essential. It's strongly recommended to complete this walk with a companion. While the opportunity for crocodile spotting exists, remember these predators are highly effective hunters. Stay a safe distance from the river and its pools at all times. The walk also provides a chance to observe marrawuddi, the white-bellied sea-eagle, known for snatching fish with their powerful talons.
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.
Total distance: 7500 m
Max elevation: 19 m
Min elevation: 7 m
Total climbing: 49 m
Total descent: -49 m
Download
No Records Found
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Maps failed to load
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
Reaching the Badbong Wodjmeng Sandstone River Walk trailhead requires a four-wheel drive vehicle due to the track's unsealed and potentially rough terrain. If you're staying at Merl Campground, head south on the Kakadu Highway for approximately 13 kilometres. Turn left onto the Jim Jim Road, a dirt track, and continue for 19 kilometres. The trailhead is located a further 7 kilometres along this track, marked by signage for the Badbong Wodjmeng Sandstone Walk. Remember, this is a remote area, so ensure you have a full tank of fuel and let someone know your planned route before setting off.
Main image: Parks Australia
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres, Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage listing renowned for both its cultural and natural values. See breathtaking horizons from the top of a Kakadu escarpment. Cruise on the stunning Yellow Water Billabong to spot crocodiles and wildlife in their natural habitat, including millions of migratory birds who in part call the park's wetlands home.
Not only is Kakadu spectacular, but you can feel yourself come alive among the lush rainforests, rocky gorges, serene swimming pools and the oldest Aboriginal rock art in the world. With more than 5,000 Aboriginal rock art sites in the park, the Bininj/Mungguy people have called Kakadu home for some 65,000 years. Here they'll teach you about their ancient culture and the regions' dramatic seasons.
Connect with the oldest living culture on earth. The rugged and remote beauty of Kakadu has stories to share that will take your breath away and touch your heart. In Australia's biggest national park you'll find ancient landscapes with thundering waterfalls, lush rainforests, wandering wetlands, exotic wildlife and ancient rock art.
Kakadu offers unrivalled walks to immerse you in nature, satisfy your appetite for adventure, or nurture your curiosity. Only three hours' drive from Darwin, Kakadu National Park has been waiting for you.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Kakadu National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
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
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.
