Z Bend Lookout

Z Bend Lookout is an overhanging rock viewpoint above a sharp turn in the Murchison River, in Kalbarri National Park’s red sandstone gorge. It is the quick way to get the high gorge view without taking on a river descent. The walk from the car park is 1.2 km return, moderately easy, and takes about an hour at a relaxed pace.

From the lookout, trace the river as it swings around the bend between layered cliffs, with red river gums below. The river lies roughly 150 m beneath the viewpoint, which is why a strip of foreground rock helps show the drop. For a photo, include both arms of the bend and some of the rim instead of filling the frame with cliff alone.

The lookout path and the Z Bend River Trail are different outings. The River Trail is a 2.6 km return hike down to the Murchison, with steep descents, loose rocks, boulders and ladder climbs. It is a much harder walk, and the climb back out is the demanding part. Stay with the lookout path if you want the view without that descent.

The Murchison has cut its sharp turns through Tumblagooda Sandstone. From above, the layered red and pale rock walls make the river’s zigzag easy to pick out, and the same gorge continues well beyond the lookout.

Red river gums grow below the rim. On the lower gorge routes, spring can bring Kalbarri Spider Orchid, Pink Poker, Flame Grevillea and Starflowers. August to October is the park’s main wildflower season, though blooms vary from year to year.