Weano Gorge

Via Banjima Dr West, Karijini National Park, 6751

Weano Gorge, on the western side of the park, is one of Karijini’s most visited gorges, known for its striking red rock walls, emerald pools, and adventurous walking trails. The gorge is made up of two main sections: upper Weano Gorge, accessed via Oxer Lookout, forming a semi-loop returning to the day-use area, and Lower Weano gorge, leading to Handrail Pool along a separate spur. You can explore either section individually, or combine them for a fuller experience depending on your time and energy.

For those seeking even more adventure, guided tours offer access beyond the publicly accessible areas, connecting Weano Gorge to hidden pools, narrow canyon passages, and neighbouring gorges.

Highlights of Weano Gorge

• Dramatic, narrow chasms carved over millions of years
• Emerald waterholes perfect for cooling off
• Oxer Lookout with panoramic views of four gorges
• More demanding trails for thrill-seekers
• Opportunities for guided tours into restricted areas

Walking Trails

Oxer Lookout

Class 2 and 3 Trail

From the Weano day use area, follow the signposted trail to the Oxer Lookout - there are some minor obstacles and a series of steps along this 400m trail. Oxer Lookout offers one of the most stunning panoramas in Western Australia. Located at the junction of four mighty gorges, the sheer enormity and grandeur of Joffre, Weano, Hancock and Red Gorges is evident. 

Upper Weano Gorge 

Class 4 Trail

From the Weano day use area carpark, a signposted trail leads along the gorge rim for about 600m before descending into the gorge itself. The trail follows a watercourse, requiring walkers to cross the stream in a couple of places following the trail markers, and involves some short steep sections. Towards the end of this 1km trail, you'll come across the picturesque Weano Gorge pool, a popular swimming spot. From here, you can choose to ascend via the steep rocky pathway to the top of the gorge then loop back to the carpark, or continue on the Lower Weano Gorge trail. 

• Shoes with grip soles (reef shoes) are essential, as some sections of the trail may be submerged or slippery. 

Lower Weano Gorge to Handrail Pool

Class 5 Trail

The Lower Weano Gorge trail to Handrail Pool is an adventurous route, requring agility to navigate narrow passageways and rock ledges. Water levels within the gorge will vary depending on the time of the season, so be prepared to get wet as you follow the trail. On either side of the trail, the multi-layered, iron-rich gorge walls tower above.  A circular cavern filled with a shallow pool is situated just before the final section to Handrail Pool, a great spot to turn around if not completing the full route.

From there, the trail narrows dramatically before reaching the top of a small waterfall, where a handrail and carved footholds guide you down into Handrail Pool, an awe-inspiring chamber that feels hidden deep within the gorge. If you’re unsure about making the climb back up, enjoy the view from above before turning around. Return to the carpark via the same route. 

• Shoes with grip soles (reef shoes) are essential, as some sections of the trail may be submerged or slippery. 

Guided tours beyond the public trails 

Beyond the public access points, experienced canyoning guides can take you deeper into Weano and neighbouring gorges on extended adventures. These tours explore areas such as Jade Pool, the Amphitheatre, Waterfall Passage, Junction Pool, and the famous Spider Walk, often linking through to Hancock Gorge, Red Gorge, and even Joffre Gorge. Guided canyoning experiences like Spacechameleon Adventure Co’s Weano Descent reveal parts of the landscape that can’t be accessed independently, with expert knowledge and safety support that make it possible to traverse the narrow chasms, hidden pools, and dramatic passages of this extraordinary gorge system.

Visitor Information

Access: Trails begin at the Weano day use carpark, with Oxer Lookout also starting from this point. The access road is unsealed and can be rough — a 4WD is recommended.

Facilities: Toilets, shaded picnic tables, and shelters are available at the Weano day use area. There is no camping here; the nearest sites are at Karijini Eco Retreat or Dales Campground.

Swimming: Swimming is possible in Weano Gorge pools, including the picturesque Weano Pool and Handrail Pool. Always assess depth and conditions before entering.

Safety: Bring enough drinking water with you — the guidance is 1L per person per hour of walking. Trails can be uneven, slippery, and involve scrambling, so wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Please do not enter the gorge if it is within two hours of sunset, as the trails are not safe in the dark. Flash flooding can occur — always check conditions before you go.

How long to spend at Weano Gorge: Allow at least a couple of hours to visit Weano Gorge, which gives time to take in Oxer Lookout and walk into Upper Weano. With half a day you can add the Lower Weano trail to Handrail Pool, with time for swimming and photos. To make a full day of it, combine with nearby Hancock or Joffre Gorge, or join a guided canyoning tour to experience areas beyond the public trails.

Tours & Experiences

Discover More of Karijini

Pair your visit with nearby Hancock Gorge, Knox Gorge, or Joffre Gorge for a full day of exploration

Karijini National Park Map

Discover the highlights of Karijini with this interactive map, including day-use areas, gorges, pools, and lookouts. Click on the pins to see more information about each location and plan your visit with ease. The Explore Parks WA factsheet on Weano Gorge is another excellent resource, and can be downloaded here.