Place · 1.6 mi away
Overview
Hawks Head Lookout is a quick, rewarding stop with sweeping views into the Murchison River Gorge. The rock outcrop across the way hints at a hawk’s profile—use a little imagination and you’ll see it. It’s often a calmer scene than the headline spots, which makes lingering here feel extra good.
What You’ll See
From the fenced deck you’re looking down on classic Kalbarri banded sandstones and the river looping below. On a lucky day you may spot kangaroos on the riverbank, black‑flanked rock wallabies sunning on boulders near the deck, and raptors working the cliff lines.
The Walk & Facilities
It’s a flat, sealed path of about 200 m return from the car park to the lookout. Facilities include a small car park (bitumen access suitable for caravans), long‑drop toilets, a shaded picnic shelter, and a viewing deck. BBQs are listed here, and there are interpretive panels that add some context to what you’re looking at.
Culture & Geology
The Nanda people are the Traditional Owners of this country. The Murchison River has been carving these dramatic gorges over hundreds of millions of years, leaving the striped sandstone walls you see from the platform.
Wildlife & Wildflowers
Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos at dawn/dusk and rock wallabies around the boulder piles; bring a mid‑range zoom if you’re keen on wildlife shots. Wildflowers typically bloom mid‑June through October, with August often the peak—this lookout is a relaxed place to appreciate them without rushing.
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoon is the sweet spot—the sun sits behind you, warming up the gorge and the hawk‑shaped outcrop. Go early or late in the hot months (Dec–Apr). Plan on up to 45 minutes here if you’re picnicking or wildlife watching.
Practical Notes
- Day‑use only; no camping. Park entry fees apply.
- No pets—1080 baiting occurs in the area to control pests.
- Bring plenty of water; drinking water isn’t provided and shade is limited.
- It’s about 36 km from Kalbarri town on sealed road; combine with nearby Ross Graham Lookout for an easy half‑day.
- Check current park and road alerts before you drive out, especially in heat or fire weather.
Pros
- Big Murchison Gorge views and the namesake hawk‑shaped rock
- Short, sealed 200 m stroll from the car park
- Sheltered picnic area and toilets, with easy bitumen access for caravans
Cons
- Wind and flies can be persistent
- Hot and exposed at mid‑day with limited shade
Tips
- Aim for late afternoon light to have the sun at your back.
- Pack fly repellent or a head net—flies can be relentless.
- Bring your own drinking water; none is available on site.
- Pair this with Ross Graham Lookout to round out the south entrance.
- Watch for kangaroos on the road at dawn and dusk.
