The drive from Wyndham to Kununurra in Western Australia’s Kimberley region is only around 100 kilometres via the Great Northern and Victoria Highways. But if you’re looking for a more adventurous journey, taking the back roads reveals some of the region’s hidden landscapes and wildlife.
From historic outposts and spectacular lookouts to wetlands teeming with birdlife, this alternative route offers a memorable taste of the Kimberley before arriving in Kununurra.
Perched above the town, the Five Rivers Lookout (often referred to as The Bastion) offers one of the best views in the Kimberley. From here you can see the five rivers that flow into Cambridge Gulf — the Ord, Pentecost, Durack, King and Forrest Rivers.
Wyndham itself is the oldest town in the Kimberley. It developed as a port and trading hub following the discovery of gold in Halls Creek in 1885. For many decades the local economy centred around the Wyndham Meatworks, which operated until its closure in 1985.
Today Wyndham is a quiet outpost with a strong tourism focus and a gateway to the eastern Kimberley.
Before leaving town, stop by the famous “Big Crocodile” statue — an iconic photo opportunity that hints at the wildlife found throughout the region.
About 34 kilometres south of Wyndham along the sealed road is The Grotto, a popular natural swimming spot in the Kimberley.
Visitors descend roughly 140 steep steps into a gorge where a cool, shaded waterhole sits beneath towering rock walls. During the wet season a waterfall cascades into the pool, while in the dry season the waterhole offers a refreshing place to cool off.
As always in the north, conditions can change quickly — always check local advice before swimming.
Backtracking a short distance along the highway brings you to the turn-off for the Old Halls Creek Track.
Originally constructed during the Halls Creek gold rush, parts of the track still contain remnants of the original cobblestone road built by convict labour. Today it forms a short but adventurous 4WD route of about 23 kilometres.
Along the way there are several worthwhile detours.
Formerly known as Alligator Hole, Crocodile Hole is a known saltwater crocodile habitat. Large crocodiles can often be seen basking on the riverbanks.
This is a day-use viewing area only and swimming is not permitted.
A short detour leads to Mugs Lagoon, a peaceful wetland known for its water lilies and birdlife. Like many waterways in the Kimberley, crocodiles are present so visitors should remain well back from the water.
The track eventually meets Parry Creek Road, where travellers can stop at Parry Creek Farm.
Operating during the dry season (typically April to September), the property offers a café, accommodation and camping options. The surrounding wetlands are part of the Parry Lagoons Nature Reserve, a RAMSAR-listed wetland of international importance.
Birdwatchers in particular will enjoy this area, with more than 180 species of birds recorded in the reserve.
A short drive further brings you to Marlgu Lagoon, where a raised boardwalk and bird hide allow visitors to safely observe the wetlands.
This is one of the best locations in the region for spotting birdlife, particularly during the dry season when waterbirds gather across the floodplain. Crocodiles are also known to inhabit the area, so swimming is strictly prohibited.
Nearby are the remains of the Old Wyndham Telegraph Station, built in 1914 and once used to assist ships entering Cambridge Gulf.
From the lagoons, the track eventually loops back onto Parry Creek Road, a scenic dirt route that follows the Ord River floodplain toward Kununurra.
The road passes through vast cattle country, where herds are often seen grazing near the roadside. Drivers should take care, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Along the way there are a few peaceful riverside areas and seasonal waterfalls worth exploring, including Black Rock Springs and Middle Springs, which are especially picturesque early in the dry season.
Before reaching Kununurra you’ll encounter Ivanhoe Crossing, one of the most recognisable river crossings in northern Australia.
This concrete causeway crosses the Ord River and is regularly submerged during the wet season. When open, it’s a memorable place to watch the water flow over the crossing — though travellers should always check local conditions before attempting to cross.
From Ivanhoe Crossing it’s around 11 kilometres into Kununurra, the gateway to the eastern Kimberley and home to attractions such as Lake Argyle, Mirima National Park and the Ord River irrigation area.
For visitor information and local travel advice, stop by the Kununurra Visitor Centre once you arrive.
If you’re travelling with a caravan or camper, Kununurra also offers several well-equipped caravan parks and camping options — making it a great base for exploring the Kimberley.
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