Gunlom Plunge Pool Walk

Why go

This is the easy win in southern Kakadu: a very short, flat walk (about 0.12 miles/200 m total out-and-back) from the car park to the broad, emerald plunge pool at the base of seasonal Gunlom Falls. It’s family-friendly, photogenic, and famous—this is the pool seen in Crocodile Dundee.

What to expect

The path is flat and straightforward, suitable for almost all abilities, with wheelchair access to the first viewing area. In minutes you’re on sandy, beach-like edges under pandanus and paperbarks, with a large swim hole fed by the falls when they’re running. Picnic lawns and facilities are right by the start, so it’s an easy place to settle in. When conditions are safe and permitted, people swim and relax here; keep an eye out for freshwater turtles and fish, and bring a camera—this scene is a Kakadu classic.

Good to know

• Length and time: ~0.12 miles total (out-and-back), 5–10 minutes at an easy pace.
• The lower plunge pool walk is separate from the steep Gunlom Lookout/upper pools track. If you want infinity-pool views and don’t mind a short, steep climb, do the upper walk as a separate outing; rocks can be slippery when wet.
• Facilities near the base include shaded picnic areas and free gas barbecues, with camping nearby.

Safety and access

This is crocodile country. Be Crocwise: only enter the water if and where signage says it’s safe, and follow all on-site advice. Access can change with weather and crocodile management. Reaching Gunlom involves about 40 km of unsealed road; conditions vary and 4WD is recommended, especially outside the dry season.

Best time to go

Dry season (May–October) is the sweet spot: safer water conditions, better road access, and cooler temps. Arrive early to beat crowds and heat. In the wet, the road may be impassable and areas may close—always check current park reports before you commit.