Walking the rim of King’s Canyon

There are many ways to check out Kings Canyon – and one’s just bang on for you.

Taking the legendary trek to the top of Kings Canyon is what they call the mesmerising Rim Walk.

This beautiful Rim Walk will lead you on a 6-klick loop, ducking down into the Garden of Eden and then back up top to gawk at the 360-degree views. Depending on how leisurely you want to take in the awe-inspiring surroundings, the trek might take around 3-4 hours.

Kicking off the walk is a bit of a challenge, with a solid 500 steep steps to conquer – but once you’ve made it, it’s gonna be one of the most unforgettable moments of your life. After soaking up the views from the top of the steps, keep moving through Priscilla’s Crack, made a hit by the iconic Aussie flick Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and onto the first quiz across the canyon.

From that spot, you’re gonna eyeball the incredible sandstone domes (think of a mini-Purnululu) dubbed the Lost City ’cause it looks like something out of an ancient tale.

Then it’s up to you whether to keep exploring up top or head down the steps to the stunning Garden of Eden, bursting with greenery, where you can trot across a secure bridge over the sacred waterhole. After snagging that picture-perfect moment, take the steps back up to the south side of the canyon.

The cracking time to embark on this adventure is at sunrise, as the sun slowly lights up the sandstone with a brilliant display of oranges and reds.

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If you are interested in this area, we recommend the organised Kings Canyon Tour. Our guides will tell you all the secrets of the canyon.

Other Tracks around Kings Canyon

For a softer stroll or trekkers who’ve tackled the rim and wanna see the canyon from another angle, the Kings Creek walk is a cruisy 2.6 klick wander that trails between the massive canyon walls. Reaching the lookout, you’ll see the spectacular sheer cliff face at the canyon’s far end. This walk is immersive as you experience, touch, and sniff the natural beauty and the bush and critters of the canyon.

Kings Canyon Tour

Staying Cool

Walking in the scorcher can be risky and sometimes downright deadly.

Even if you are a seasoned trekker, taking precautions at Kings Canyon is necessary.

You oughta:

  • crack on early in the day
  • have a squiz at the temperature before you head out
  • always lug a map and compass for long walks – chuck GPS navigation apps in as a backup
  • slap on protective gear
  • have a breather in the shade
  • skull heaps of water
  • steer clear of the grog or sugary stuff like fizzy drinks.

Watch the video below for more yarns on staying safe in the heat.