Motor Car Falls Walk

Motor Car Falls Walk is a moderate, out-and-back hike from the Boulder Creek (Yurmikmik) carpark to Motor Car Falls. It is 7.5 km/4.7 miles return, with around 2.5 hours of hiking for most visitors, plus time at the pool.

The route follows an old exploration track through Kakadu's southern hills and ridges, across open woodland and grassland, then through the final 300 metres of monsoon forest to a natural swimming pool below the falls. Most of the approach is exposed with little shade; expect uneven rocky footing and a short boulder-scramble near the water.

The southern hills support antilopine wallaroos, and birders may see Gouldian finches, red-tailed black cockatoos, hooded parrots and lorikeets. Golden orb spiders and azure kingfishers may appear in the monsoon-forest section near the pool.

The wet season (roughly November–April) usually brings the strongest flow and lushest monsoon forest. In the dry season (May–October), the walk is generally easier and cooler, but the falls may taper to a trickle. Start early for cooler temperatures and carry serious sun protection.

Start at the Boulder Creek carpark (carpark one) in the Yurmikmik walks area, off Gimbat Road, about 22 km from the Kakadu Highway turnoff and roughly 140 km south of Jabiru. The access road is unsealed and a 4WD is recommended. A Kakadu National Park Pass is required. Follow Crocwise signage before entering the water and obey any local safety directions.

This route represents the Motor Car Falls walk from the Boulder Creek/Yurmikmik carpark; nearby Boulder Creek, Yurmikmik Lookout and Kurrundie routes are separate walks.