Gibb River Road — Tunnel Creek to Windjana Gorge via Napier Range Limestone Track
Devonian reefs, outlaws, and croc-lined banks.
The Napier Range rises out of the red Kimberley plain like a fossilised reef wall — because that’s exactly what it is, a 350-million-year-old Devonian barrier reef now stranded inland. This short but dense spur off the Gibb River Road links Tunnel Creek — where Bunuba outlaw Jandamarra hid from police for three years in the 1890s — to Windjana Gorge, where the Lennard River cuts clean through the range and freshwater crocodiles line every sandbar. The ‘road’ between them is a corrugated dirt track that deteriorates fast in the Wet and can cut you off entirely. Watch for the tight limestone pinches on the Tunnel Creek access spur — low-hanging rock has tested many roof racks.
This stretch is accessible to a well-set-up high-clearance 4WD, but don’t attempt it during or immediately after rain — the black-soil approaches bog everything. Dry season only: May through September. Fees apply at both Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge National Parks (Parks and Wildlife WA). No fuel between Fitzroy Crossing and the Gibb turnoff, roughly 250 km — carry extra. Water is available at Windjana campground. Cell service is zero. What you get out here is ancient geology, living history, and crocs sunning themselves 10 metres from your camp chair.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance, Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 34 mi / 54.7 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 820 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Fitzroy Crossing, WA |
| Land manager | WA Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (Parks and Wildlife) |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Official sources | Windjana Gorge NP – Parks WA Tunnel Creek NP – Parks WA |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What's the minimum rig to run this stretch — can a lifted Hilux or stock Land Cruiser handle it?
High-clearance 4WD is required — not optional. A stock 80 Series or Prado 150 will manage, but low-range is needed on the rougher limestone sections. Lifted Hiluxes are a common sight here; a bone-stock crossover SUV has no business on this track.
When does the track close and when does it reopen after wet season?
The Kimberley wet season (October–April) turns this route into a muddy, flooded mess — Tunnel Creek Road and Windjana access close entirely, sometimes into May or even June after heavy rains. Stick to May–September; check current road conditions with Main Roads WA or the local shire before you go because opening dates shift every year.
Do you need a permit to drive this route and enter the parks?
Yes — both Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge are national parks managed by WA Parks and Wildlife, and entry fees apply at each. Purchase passes online via Parks WA or pay on-site; as of recent seasons it's around AUD $15–17 per adult per park visit.
What's the hardest section and what makes it technical?
The Napier Range limestone track is where it gets honest — sharp, jagged rock that will slice a sidewall if you're sloppy, with some shelf road sections that demand you pick your line carefully. It's not extreme, but it's unforgiving on tyres; run at least 35 PSI if you're airing down and watch the edges.
Is there potable water or any resupply between Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge?
There is zero resupply and no treated water between the two parks — carry everything you need for the full stretch plus a buffer. Fitzroy Crossing, roughly 90–100km east, is your last reliable fuel and water stop before starting this run; don't leave town less than full.
Trail track
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