Wolfe Creek Crater National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and tips for traveling to Wolfe Creek Crater National Park in Western Australia.


Introduction to Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

Located in Kimberley, a vast region in Western Australia, Wolfe Creek Crater National Park is a stunning natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. The park features the second-largest meteorite crater in the world, with a diameter of approximately 875 meters and an age of over 300,000 years.

Apart from the impressive crater, the park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, dingoes, and different bird species. Visitors can choose from a range of activities, from hiking and biking to stargazing and wildlife watching.

Whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, Wolfe Creek Crater National Park is a must-visit destination in Western Australia.

List of Places to Visit in Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wolfe Creek Meteorite Crater: This is the main highlight of the park, a giant crater formed by the impact of a meteorite over 300,000 years ago.
  • Indigenous Cultural Center: Learn about the culture and traditions of the indigenous people who lived in the area before European settlement.
  • Old Halls Creek: Visit the site where the first gold rush in the Kimberley region started, and learn about the history of the area in the museum.

Natural Attractions of Wolfe Creek Crater National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kandimalal Falls: This waterfall is a hidden gem in the park, collecting water from the surrounding hills and forming a beautiful oasis in the desert.
  • Stargazing: The park is located far away from any light pollution, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. You can bring your telescope or join a guided tour.
  • Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a range of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, dingoes, and different bird species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

  • Wolfe Creek Crater Rim Walk: This 9-kilometer walk takes you around the crater and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
  • Kandimalal Trail: This 2.5-kilometer trail takes you to the Kandimalal Falls and offers a refreshing dip in the natural pool.
  • Fossil Trail: This 2-kilometer trail takes you to a site where you can see ancient marine fossils.

Best Things to Do in Wolfe Creek Crater National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Guided Tours: Join a local guide to explore the park’s highlights, learn about the indigenous culture, and get a better understanding of the local flora and fauna.
  • Stargazing Tours: Join a guided tour to learn more about the stars and planets and get a unique perspective on the universe.
  • Horse Riding: Explore the park on horseback and experience the landscape like a true western cowboy.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Wolfe Creek, check into accommodation, and visit the Indigenous Cultural Center.
2 Hike the Wolfe Creek Crater Rim Walk, and enjoy the stunning views of the desert landscape.
3 Go horse riding in the park, and experience the landscape like a true western cowboy.
4 Visit Kandimalal Falls, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool.
5 Join a guided stargazing tour, and learn about the stars and planets.
6 Explore the Fossil Trail and discover the ancient marine fossils.
7 Depart from Wolfe Creek.

Food and Drink Scene of Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Damper and Baked Beans: This is a traditional Australian campfire breakfast dish. Damper is a type of bread made from flour, water, and salt, and baked beans are a popular accompaniment.
  • Barramundi: This is a popular freshwater fish that is famous for its delicious taste. You can find it in many restaurants in the area.
  • Bush Tucker: This is a range of ingredients that are used in the traditional cuisine of indigenous people and include different berries, seeds, and native animals.

Local Beverages

  • Australian Wine: Australia is famous for its wine industry, and you can find a range of locally produced wines in many restaurants and shops in the area.
  • Australian Beer: Australia has a rich beer culture, and you can find a range of locally produced beers in many bars and pubs in the area.
  • Australian Spirits: Australia produces a range of spirits, including rum, gin, and whiskey. You can find them in many liquor stores in the area.

Where to Stay in Wolfe Creek Crater National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kimberleyland Holiday Park: This park offers a range of accommodation options, including cabins, caravan sites, and camping sites.
  • Wolfe Creek Crater Rest Area: This is a free camping area located close to the park entrance.
  • Fitzroy River Lodge: This lodge offers a range of accommodation options, including hotel rooms, cabins, and camping sites.

What to Buy in Wolfe Creek Crater National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Boab Nuts: These are nuts that grow on the Boab Tree, which is endemic to the Kimberley region. They are often used in local cuisine and can be found in many souvenir shops in the area.
  • Aboriginal Art: Indigenous art is popular in Australia, and you can find a range of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks in many art galleries and souvenir shops in the area.
  • Pearls: Broome, a town located close to Wolfe Creek Crater National Park, is famous for its pearl industry, and you can find a range of locally produced pearls in many jewelry shops in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

  • Indigenous Culture: The indigenous people of the area have a rich culture and history. Respect their culture and traditions by learning more about them and following the local customs.
  • Conservation: The park is home to a range of wildlife, some of which are endangered. Respect the environment by not littering and staying on designated paths.

Best Time to Visit Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

The best time to visit Wolfe Creek Crater National Park is between May and October, which is the dry season in the region. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the park is open to visitors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

Do:

  • Respect the environment and wildlife by not littering and staying on designated paths.
  • Learn about the indigenous culture and history of the area.
  • Bring appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Feed the wildlife.
  • Collect or damage fossils or other natural features.
  • Ignore warning signs and swim in unsafe areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

  • Avoid hiking or exploring the park alone.
  • Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
  • Be aware of the dangers of the environment, such as snakes and spiders.

Health in Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

  • The park is located in a remote area, so be sure to bring any essential medication.
  • Check with a doctor before traveling if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Getting to Wolfe Creek Crater National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

  • Broome International Airport: This airport is located approximately 142 kilometers from the park and offers domestic and international flights.
  • Kununurra Airport: This airport is located approximately 643 kilometers from the park and offers domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

  • Greyhound Australia: This bus company offers services to and from Broome and Kununurra.

Other Options

  • Self-Drive: You can rent a car or a 4x4 and explore the park on your own.
  • Tours: Several tour operators offer guided tours to the park.

How to Get Around in Wolfe Creek Crater National Park

  • Car or 4x4: You can explore the park by car or a 4x4 vehicle. Be aware that some roads may be rough and require a 4x4.
  • Bike: You can rent a bike and explore the park on one of the designated trails.

Where to Go Next from Wolfe Creek Crater National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Broome: This town is located approximately 1,064 kilometers from the park and is famous for its beaches, pearls, and indigenous culture.
  • Kununurra: This town is located approximately 986 kilometers from the park and offers access to several national parks and natural attractions.

Conclusion

Wolfe Creek Crater National Park is a stunning destination that offers a range of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual experience or an adventure in the outback, Wolfe Creek Crater National Park has something for everyone. Follow these tips, plan your itinerary, and get ready for an unforgettable journey in Western Australia.

The Wolfe Creek crater The Wolfe Creek crater