Pros & cons
PROS
- Easiest access to the Murchison River anywhere in the park
- Shady riverbank under tall River Redgums for lingering or a paddle
CONS
- Lookout views are tamer than nearby Hawks Head
- No wheelchair access to the river despite an accessible lookout
Park at Ross Graham Lookout car park: from Ajana–Kalbarri Road, turn onto Hawkes Head Road, then first right onto Ross Graham Road (about 30 minutes east of Kalbarri).
Extreme heat from December–April; walk in cooler hours and carry plenty of water. Final section to the river is steeper with rough surfaces and can be slippery when wet. About 27 steps down; no wheelchair access to the river.
Overview
A bite‑sized taste of Kalbarri’s gorge country, this 700 m return walk drops from the Ross Graham Lookout to the Murchison River. It’s the park’s easiest river access, perfect when you want a peaceful spot by the water without committing to a big hike. Expect a tranquil vibe rather than blockbuster vistas—nearby Hawks Head has the drama; this one delivers calm.
Route description
From the car park, a firm, wheelchair-accessible path leads about 200 m to a lookout with broad views over the river. Continue past the lookout on a stepped, rougher track that descends gently at first, then a short, steeper finish to the riverbank. There are around 27 steps and some uneven surfaces, which can be slippery when wet. Down by the water, towering River Redgums cast generous shade—an inviting place to linger, paddle, or take a careful swim when conditions allow.
Difficulty and timing
Grade is Class 3 (moderate) due to steps and rough patches, but the distance is short. Most walkers take 30–60 minutes return, depending on how long you lounge by the river.
Best time to hike
Wildflowers put on a show July–October, making this little walk especially lovely. From December–April, heat can be severe—go early or late and bring plenty of water. Light is softer in the first and last hours of the day, which suits photos from the lookout and reflections at the river pools.
Logistics and tips
Facilities include a car park, picnic area, shaded spots and public toilets. Park entry fees apply. No pets or camping in the national park. If you’re chasing bigger canyon views, pair this with the short stop at Hawks Head on the same access road.
Elevation
0.4 mi · 45 minWhere it starts
-27.8116, 114.4725Near Ross Graham Walk
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayRoss Graham LookoutQuick gorge views with easy river access for a swimParking · Restroom
0.9 mi awayInyaka Wookai Watju (West Loop Lookout)Twin skywalks hanging over Murchison Gorge with big‑sky viewsParking · Restroom
1.6 mi awayHawks Head WalkSealed 200 m stroll to a big Murchison Gorge lookout.Easy · 0.1 mi · 15 min
1.6 mi awayHawk’s Head Lookout WalkShort, sealed stroll to a dramatic Murchison River gorge lookoutEasy · 0.1 mi · 15 min
1.6 mi awayHawks Head LookoutShort stroll to a gorge-wide view and the hawk-shaped rockRestroom · Parking
11 mi awayZ BendShort walk to a big gorge, with a rugged river descentParking · Restroom
11.3 mi awayZ Bend River TrailShort, adventurous gorge descent to the Murchison RiverChallenging · 1.6 mi · 2 hr
11.3 mi awayZ Bend Lookout TrailShort, stairy stroll to a blockbuster Murchison Gorge viewpointEasy · 0.8 mi · 45 min
