
The Piccaninny
Discover the dramatic beauty of The Piccaninny, a gem within Purnululu National Park, offering remote hikes and breathtaking lookout points.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and catch golden hour light.

The Piccaninny
Best Time
Beat the heat and catch golden hour light.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the dramatic beauty of The Piccaninny, a gem within Purnululu National Park, offering remote hikes and breathtaking lookout points.
"Great walk with such a beautiful view at the end. It’s relatively short with just over an hour round trip."

👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
The tracks are rocky and uneven; good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially for longer hikes, as the climate can be very dry.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Piccaninny Creek Lookout
Bungle Bungle, Purnululu National Park
Witness a sunrise that rivals Uluru, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Bungle Bungle range.

The Piccaninny Gorge Walk
Purnululu National Park
Embark on Australia's most remote multi-day hike, immersing yourself in the heart of the Bungle Bungles.

Whipsnake Gorge
Piccaninny area, Bungle Bungle
Explore this less-visited gorge, a hidden gem offering a unique perspective within the Bungle Bungle landscape.

The Window
Piccaninny area, Bungle Bungle
A natural rock formation offering a framed view of the surrounding rugged beauty, a perfect photo opportunity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
The tracks are rocky and uneven; good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially for longer hikes, as the climate can be very dry.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Wear a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Australian sun.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is limited, so download maps before you go for navigation.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
The tracks are rocky and uneven; good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially for longer hikes, as the climate can be very dry.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Wear a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Australian sun.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is limited, so download maps before you go for navigation.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and stunning photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning views and unique geological formations found at The Piccaninny, particularly the rewarding vistas from the lookout points. The relatively easy nature of some walks makes it accessible, though sturdy footwear is consistently recommended for the rocky paths. Some reviewers noted the potential for even better views in the afternoon light.
"Great walk with such a beautiful view at the end. It’s relatively short with just over an hour round trip. Make sure you take in everything along the way, the Grampians have such amazing native plants, wildlife and features. Sturdy shoes is a must as the track is very rocky and uneven."
Heath
"Fairly easy 1.2km hike with very minimal stairs, mostly path. Quite pebbly so watch your ankles.
View from the top was amazing! It would be even better in the PM given the sun's position"
Keira Nicolls
"A relatively short and easy hike that offers great views toward Mount Sturgeon (south) and Mount Abrupt (North) as well as the surrounding farmland. Highly recommended"
Nathan Dobbie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Piccaninny is located within Purnululu National Park in Western Australia. Access typically involves driving on unsealed roads, often requiring a 4WD vehicle, especially for reaching the southern end where many Piccaninny attractions are located. Tours are also available.
While some areas might be accessible with a standard vehicle during dry seasons, a 4WD is highly recommended, and often necessary, for navigating the rougher tracks leading to trailheads like the Piccaninny Creek car park.
Many visitors opt for guided tours, which can include helicopter flights for aerial views or guided hikes. Self-driving with a 4WD allows for more flexibility, but requires careful planning and knowledge of the park's conditions.
Road conditions can vary significantly, and some tracks may be closed seasonally or after rain. Always check with the park authorities for the latest road updates before your visit.
Yes, scenic flights and helicopter tours offer a spectacular way to see the Bungle Bungles, including the Piccaninny area, from above. Some tours even offer heli-hikes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entry fee for Purnululu National Park, typically per vehicle. It's advisable to check the official Parks and Wildlife Service website for current fees and payment methods.
For day hikes, no specific permits are usually required beyond the park entry fee. However, for multi-day hikes or camping within the park, permits and bookings are essential and should be secured well in advance.
The park is generally open year-round, but access roads can be closed during the wet season (typically November to April) due to flooding. Always check current conditions before planning your trip.
It is highly recommended to book guided tours, especially for popular options like helicopter hikes or multi-day treks, well in advance, as they can fill up quickly.
Parking is generally included with the park entry fee. However, specific parking areas, like the one for The Piccaninny Creek car park, might have limited space.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hikes around The Piccaninny vary. The walk to Piccaninny Creek Lookout is described as relatively short and easy, around 1.2km return with minimal stairs. Longer gorge walks can be more challenging and require multi-day preparation.
Key attractions include Whipsnake Gorge, The Window, Cathedral Gorge, and The Domes. The Piccaninny Creek Lookout offers stunning views.
Shorter walks like the one to the lookout are generally suitable for families with children, provided they have appropriate footwear and supervision. Longer gorge explorations might be more demanding.
While wildlife sightings can vary, you might encounter native Australian animals. The reviews mention beautiful native plants and features.
Basic facilities like picnic tables are available at some parking areas. It's essential to be self-sufficient and carry out all your rubbish. Toilets are usually located at designated visitor hubs.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset offer the most dramatic lighting and softer shadows, ideal for capturing the Bungle Bungle's colors.
The Piccaninny Creek Lookout, The Window, and the unique striped domes of the Bungle Bungles are highly photogenic. Exploring the gorges also provides incredible photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the vast landscapes and gorges. A telephoto lens can be helpful for isolating details of the Bungle Bungle's formations.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest regulations with the park authorities before flying a drone.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your shot to give a sense of scale. Shooting from different vantage points, including elevated ones, can also emphasize the grandeur.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to prioritize safety and comfort. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes, have plenty of water, and are protected from the sun with hats and sunscreen. While longer gorge walks might be too demanding for younger children, the accessible viewpoints provide a fantastic introduction to the unique landscape of the Bungle Bungles. Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day to make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
For day adventurers, exploring Whipsnake Gorge, The Window, and the Piccaninny Creek Lookout provides a taste of the area's dramatic geology and stunning vistas. These trails, while shorter, still require good footwear and preparation for the rugged terrain.
Key advice for adventurers includes downloading offline maps due to poor reception and being fully self-sufficient with water and supplies. Consider a 4WD for easier access to trailheads, or opt for guided tours that can include helicopter access for a unique perspective.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Bungle Bungles: Piccaninny Gorge & Beyond
For those seeking a less strenuous adventure, the Piccaninny Creek Lookout provides a stunning vantage point for sunrise or sunset, offering panoramic views of the iconic beehive-shaped domes. Other accessible highlights in the vicinity include Whipsnake Gorge and The Window, which offer unique geological formations and photographic opportunities. Many of these can be explored as part of a loop starting from the Piccaninny Creek car park.
Planning is crucial for exploring this region. Due to limited cell service, downloading offline maps is essential. Visitors should also be prepared for the harsh desert climate by carrying ample water and wearing sturdy footwear. While self-driving with a 4WD is an option, guided tours, including helicopter flights, provide an unforgettable perspective and can simplify logistics.
The Magic of Remote Hiking
This trek involves significant preparation. Beyond the physical demands of hiking over rugged terrain, campers need to be entirely self-sufficient, carrying all their food, water, and camping gear. The reward, however, is immense: sleeping under a canopy of stars, waking up to the surreal beauty of the Bungle Bungles, and experiencing a sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering a challenging, remote trail.
For those considering this adventure, booking well in advance is paramount. Permits are required, and the limited number of spots ensures the preservation of this pristine environment. It's an experience that appeals to seasoned hikers looking for a true test of their endurance and a deep dive into Australia's untamed beauty.






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