Mitchell Falls: An Iconic Kimberley Attraction

The four-tiered Mitchell Falls is one of Australia’s most spectacular natural attractions. Also known as Punamii-Uunpuu to the Wunambal people, this stunning waterfall cascades over sandstone layers, creating a mesmerizing sight. Accessible by foot, air, or 4WD, Mitchell Falls offers an unforgettable Kimberley experience.

How to Get to the Mitchell Falls

Drive: From the Gibb River Road, take the 4WD-only Kalumburu Road to reach the Mitchell Plateau. Many visitors choose to camp at Munurru Campground, located near the junction of Kalumburu Road and Port Warrender Road, before continuing the journey. From there, the challenging Port Warrender Road leads to the Mitchell Falls campground and parking area, where you can either hike the trail or take a helicopter ride to the falls.

Scenic Flights: Helicopter or light aircraft scenic flights are available during the dry season from Kununurra, Broome, Drysdale River Station, Ellenbrae Station and the Mitchell Falls Campground.

4WD Bus Tours: Several extended 4WD tours through the Kimberley include Mitchell Falls as part of their itinerary.

Mitchell Falls Scenic Flights

One of the best ways to experience the Mitchell Falls is from the air. Scenic flight options allow you to marvel at the stunning views of the waterfalls and surrounding landscapes. Flights depart from Kununurra, Broome, Drysdale River Station and Ellenbrae Station through the dry season, with helicopter tours available from the Mitchell Falls Campground.

Helicopter Flights: Book a helicopter ride to or from the falls for a bird’s-eye view of this stunning natural wonder.

HELICOPTER TOURS AT THE MITCHELL FALLS

SCENIC FLIGHT TOURS FROM BROOME

SCENIC FLIGHT TOURS FROM KUNUNURRA

SCENIC FLIGHT TOURS FROM THE GIBB & DRYSDALE RIVER STATION

MULTI-DAY AIR TOURS INCLUDING THE MITCHELL FALLS

4WD Tours to the Mitchell Falls

For a fully guided outback adventure, multi-day 4WD tours offer an unforgettable way to experience the Mitchell Falls alongside other Kimberley highlights. These 12- to 18-day tours travel the Gibb River Road, visiting iconic gorges, Aboriginal rock art sites, and remote wilderness areas. Departing from Broome, with some tours continuing to Darwin, they provide a hassle-free way to explore this rugged region with expert guides, comfortable camping or lodge stays, and all logistics taken care of.

Hiking the Punamii-Uunpuu Trail

For the adventurous, the Punamii-Uunpuu Trail offers a moderate to difficult 8.6km return walk to the Mitchell Falls. The trail, which takes 4-6 hours, features fascinating rock art, Little Mertens Falls, and Mertens Gorge. Although swimming is not permitted below the falls, there are swimming spots along the way. Make sure to bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and take care near cliff edges.

Rock Art Tours

Explore ancient Aboriginal rock art along the Punamii-Uunpuu trail and nearby sites. Rock art tours by the Munurru Ranges departing from Munurru Campground provide insight into the cultural significance of the area, with experts guiding you through the sacred sites of the Wunambal people.

Accommodation Near the Mitchell Falls

Accommodation near the Mitchell Falls includes options ranging from campgrounds to more comfortable wilderness lodges. The Mitchell Falls campground provides a scenic base for visitors to explore the falls, with facilities for camping and day-use areas. For those looking for a more luxurious experience, nearby wilderness retreats offer stunning views and an immersive outback experience.

Mitchell River National Park: A Natural Wonderland

The Mitchell Falls is located in the remote but accessible Mitchell River National Park, which encompasses over 1150 sq km of land on the Mitchell Plateau. The Worrora, Wunambal-Gaambera and Ngarinyin people all have traditional lands within the park.

The park is biologically significant, home to over 50 species of mammal, and 86 species of amphibians and reptiles. The area’s tropical savannah habitats are also important for many bird species and over 220 bird species have been recorded.

Another attraction to visit in Mitchell River National Park is Aunauyu (Surveyors Pool), a scenic pool surrounded by blocky layers of King Leopold sandstone. It is located approximately 37 kilometres from the campground, with a moderate 2km return walk to the pool and falls (allow approximately one hour).

VISITOR PERMITS

Visitors to Mitchell Falls are required to have an Uunguu Visitor Pass (UVP), and if travelling to Kalumburu a further two permits are required. Please see below for more information.