# Gibb River Road

> A legendary outback track of almost 660 km between Derby and the Kununurra area, passing red ranges, gorges and cattle stations. It is rough, remote and open

Source: https://camping-spirit.com/destinations/au-gibb-river-road/

A legendary outback track of almost 660 km between Derby and the Kununurra area, passing red ranges, gorges and cattle stations. It is rough, remote and open only in the dry season.

- **Region:** Kimberley
- **State:** Western Australia
- **Length:** About 660 km
- **Road:** State Route 152, mostly gravel
- **Suggested time:** 5 to 7 days
- **Best season:** May to September (dry season)

## Before you go

- Travel from about May to September; wet-season floods usually close the road, and reopening dates vary from year to year.
- A 4WD is recommended because of corrugations and water crossings; carry spare tyres, extra fuel, water and recovery gear.
- Gorges have freshwater crocodiles and cold pools; some sites need permits or fees, which are arranged at stations or online.

## The road

Built in the 1960s to move cattle, the Gibb River Road runs from Derby to the Great Northern Highway near Kununurra. Since the mid-2000s most of it has been upgraded to formed gravel, with some short sealed sections, but corrugations and creek crossings remain. Roadhouses and stations are far apart, so plan fuel and supplies carefully.

## Gorges and swimming holes

Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek cut through a Devonian reef, while Bell Gorge, Manning Gorge and Emma Gorge offer waterfalls and deep pools. Mitchell Falls is a separate side trip, via the Kalumburu Road and a 4WD-only Mitchell Plateau track. Swim only where signs allow, as freshwater crocodiles live in many pools.

## Planning and respect

Most of the route crosses Aboriginal-owned or pastoral land, so keep to tracks and follow site rules. Check the latest road status with Main Roads WA and the national park authority before leaving Derby or Kununurra. Do not drive at night: cattle, wallabies and kangaroos are common on the road.

## FAQs

**Do I need a 4WD for the Gibb River Road?**
A 4WD is still recommended because of heavily corrugated sections and water crossings, and the side tracks to most gorges are rougher. Standard caravans are not suited to the route; many travellers hire an off-road vehicle.

**When is the Gibb River Road open?**
Usually in the dry season, roughly May to October, but it is often closed by flooding during the wet season from about November to March. Opening dates vary, so check road conditions with Main Roads WA before you go.

**How long does the Gibb River Road take?**
Driving non-stop takes about two days, but most visitors allow five to seven days to enjoy the gorges and swimming holes. Add extra days for Mitchell Falls or El Questro. Fuel and food are sold only at a few roadhouses and stations.

## Places to see

- [Windjana Gorge (Bandilngan)](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-windjana-gorge/)
- [Danggu (Geikie) Gorge](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-geikie-gorge-danggu/)
- [Prison Boab Tree](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-prison-boab-tree-derby/)
- [Tunnel Creek](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-tunnel-creek/)
- [Bell Gorge](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-bell-gorge/)
- [Manning Gorge](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-manning-gorge/)
- [Mitchell Falls (Punamii-unpuu)](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-mitchell-falls/)
- [Emma Gorge](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-emma-gorge/)