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  2. Cape Range National Park
  3. Charles Knife Canyon

Charles Knife Canyon

We recognise and acknowledge Baiyungu, Thalanyji and Yinigurdira people as the Traditional Owners of Cape Range National Park.

The Charles Knife Canyon drive takes you on a winding road from the main road south of Exmouth up to the top of the range. Located at the top is Charles Knife Lookout. (Park entry fees do not apply)

No dogs

Park entry fee

Charles Knife Canyon
Tourism WA

About this place

The Charles Knife Road turn off is 22km (20 minute drive) south of Exmouth. The drive takes you on a winding road up to the top of the range, offering spectacular views of the rugged terrain of Cape Range and the waters of Exmouth Gulf. 

Stop at the carpark and picnic tables on the way to the lookout.

You can also access the Badjirrajirra Walk trail from the Thomas Carter Lookout. This class 4, 6km return walk takes approximately 3 hours. It is a moderately difficult loop trail traversing the top of Cape Range. The trail winds its way through rocky gullies, small gorges and open spinifex bushland. 

For more information on this walk trail contact the Milyering Discovery Centre.

Back to Cape Range National Park

Safety information

Plan when to visit. Consider travelling with a personal location beacon (PLB). In the event you need to be rescued it could save your life!

Extreme heat can be encountered when walking in Cape Range National Park. Between November and March temperatures can often exceed 45°C. Walking during the cooler months and during cooler times of the day is strongly recommended.

  • Carry and drink adequate water (minimum of 4L per person), and wear sunscreen, long sleeves and a hat. There is no water and very little shade in the park.
  • Wear sturdy footwear, follow the trail markers and remain on the trail, for your own safety.
  • Stand well back from cliff edges. Undercutting by erosion can lead to weak sections that may collapse under your weight.
  • Before you leave, tell a responsible friend or family member where you plan to walk and when you expect to return. Remember to let them know when you’ve returned safely.

Western Shield - The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions undertakes 1080 baiting at this location to reduce the impacts of feral cats and foxes on native wildlife. 

Meat baits containing 1080 poison are laid in or around this area on an ongoing basis. 1080 is poisonous to humans and will kill domestic cats and dogs. Pets are not permitted in this park.

For further information contact your local Parks and Wildlife Service office or visit Western Shield.

Gallery

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views over charles knife canyon
Charles Knife Canyon
Dominic Ruefenacht
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View of long canyon with the sunsetting in a pink sky
Charles Knife Canyon
Tourism WA

Facilities

Picnic table

Activities

Bushwalking

Picnicking

Plants, wildlife and fungi

Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded within a 5km radius of Charles Knife Canyon.

Traditional Owners

We recognise and acknowledge Baiyungu, Thalanyji and Yinigurdira people as the traditional owners of Cape Range National Park and adjoining Ningaloo Marine Park. We are proud to be in joint management with the traditional owners to look after these special areas for future generations to enjoy.

Need to know

No dogs

No pets allowed

Park entry fees apply

Standard park entry fees apply for Cape Range National Park.

Toilets

No toilets at this location. Follow Leave No Trace principles.

Park office / Contact

Milyering Discovery Centre

Phone: +61 (0)8 99492808

Contact this office by email

Location

Australia's Coral Coast
Exmouth

Getting there

Part of the access road to Charles Knife Canyon is gravel and not suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles.

Park boundaries are approximations only and should not be used for navigation or orientation purposes.

Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional owners throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.

Connect with us

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Main navigation

  • Home
  • Explore WA's parks

    All parks

    Park Finder Map

    Attractions and places to visit

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    Regions of WA

    • Australia's South West
    • Australia's Coral Coast
    • Australia's North West
    • Australia's Golden Outback
    • Destination Perth
  • Experiences
  • Activities
  • Know before you go

    Know before you go

    Get the practical ‘know how’ to adventure into Western Australia’s national parks confidently, responsibly and safely.

  • Get inspired
  • Where to stay
  • Park alerts

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