Gibb River Road — Windjana Gorge to Tunnel Creek via Lennard River Crossing
Lennard River, crocs, and a cave in the Kimberley.
The stretch of the Gibb connecting Windjana Gorge National Park to Tunnel Creek is short on distance but long on everything else. The Lennard River crossing — anywhere from a wheel-wetting puddle to a bonnet-deep wade depending on the season — is the gatekeeper. Get that wrong and you’re not going anywhere. Beyond it, the corrugations hammer hard, the red pindan dust billows through every gap in your rig, and the limestone walls of Windjana rise 100 metres out of the flat scrub like something that has no business being there. Freshwater crocs patrol those pools; they’re not a threat, but they remind you this place operates on its own terms. Tunnel Creek itself — a 750-metre cave system that cuts clean through a Devonian reef — is the payoff, walked on foot with a headlamp in ankle-deep water.
This section is rated moderate to difficult depending on the season and river height. High-clearance 4WD is the minimum; a body-lift and good all-terrain tyres are strongly recommended. The corrugations alone will loosen anything not properly secured. Run this in the Dry Season (May–October) — the Wet makes it impassable. Carry at minimum 20 litres of water, a recovery kit, and a spare tyre. There are no facilities between Derby and Fitzroy Crossing along this route. Both sites sit inside national parks requiring national park fees (no separate permit). Phone reception is zero. Camp at Windjana Gorge campground or free-camp on station land with permission.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route, Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel, Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 53 mi / 85 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 820 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Derby, WA |
| Land manager | Parks and Wildlife Service Western Australia |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | DPAW Windjana Gorge park page DPAW Tunnel Creek park page |
| 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
Can a stock Hilux or Patrol handle this route without modifications?
Yes, a stock high-clearance 4WD is the minimum and will get through under normal dry-season conditions. The Lennard River crossing and corrugated sections are the real tests — locking diffs and a snorkel are worth having, especially if water levels are up.
When does the Gibb River Road close, and can you do this section in April?
The Gibb typically closes during the wet season, roughly November through April, and can stay shut well into May depending on rainfall. April is risky — the Lennard River crossing can be uncrossable or croc-active, and Parks and Wildlife may have gates closed at Windjana or Tunnel Creek.
Do you need a permit to camp at Windjana Gorge or Tunnel Creek?
Yes, both are national parks managed by Parks and Wildlife Service WA and require paid entry. Camping at Windjana Gorge campground requires a booking through the DPAW system; Tunnel Creek is day-use only, no overnight camping on-site.
How technical is the Lennard River crossing and what should I expect?
The Lennard River crossing is the crux of this route — depth and flow vary significantly by season, and even in the dry it can sit above a standard bumper. Check recent reports before you go, walk it on foot first, and do not rush it. Freshwater crocs are present; they're generally not aggressive but stay aware.
Is there any fuel or water available between Derby and Tunnel Creek on this stretch?
No fuel between Derby and Fitzroy Crossing along this route — fuel up in Derby before you leave and carry a reserve. Water is available at the Windjana Gorge campground, but carry your own for the drive itself; don't rely on the Lennard River water without treatment.
Trail track
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