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  2. Cape Range National Park
  3. Shothole Canyon

Shothole Canyon

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

Take a drive on the unsealed road along the bottom of this scenic canyon, in one of the most rugged areas of Cape Range National Park. (Park entry fees do not apply)

No dogs

Park entry fee

Shothole Canyon
Tourism WA

About this place

This 12km scenic drive is suitable for four-wheel drive vehicles only and travels along the floor of this spectacular gorge, taking you deep inside Shothole Canyon.

From the carpark, take a short walk (Class 4) up the steps to a lookout with views of the rugged limestone walls leading back to Exmouth Gulf. Take a picnic and enjoy the surrounds of the gorge from the picnic tables located near the carpark. The name of this canyon is derived from the shot holes left in the terrain, following the explosive charges set for seismic studies during oil exploration work in the early 1950s.

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!

Gallery

Image
Two people standing near a four-wheel drive ina canyon.
Shothole Canyon
Tourism WA

Image
Two people walking in a canyon
Shothole Canyon
Tourism WA

Image
View of dirt track leading through canyon with a four-wheel drive
Shothole Canyon
Tourism WA

Image
views over shothole canyon with clear blue sky
Shothole Canyon
David Eastwell

Facilities

Toilet

Picnic table

Activities

Four-wheel driving

Picnicking

Plants, wildlife and fungi

Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded within a 5km radius of Shothole 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

Toilets are available.

Park office / Contact

Milyering Discovery Centre

Phone: +61 (0)8 99492808

Contact this office by email

Location

Australia's Coral Coast
Exmouth

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

    Trails

    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.

    Safety

    Natural area hazards

    Plan your activity

    Be prepared

    Travelling in remote locations

    Bushfires and prescribed burns

    Bushwalking safety

    Camping safety

    Mountain biking safety

    Swimming safety

    Adventure safety

    Beaches and coastal areas

    Rivers, lakes and lagoons

    Fishing, boating, paddling, snorkelling and diving

    Access friendly places

    Access to nature north of Perth

    Access to nature south of Perth

    Access to trails

    Caring for our parks

    Marine conservation

    Fees

    Park entry fees

    Park passes

    Where can I purchase a Parks Pass?

    Camping fees

    Attraction fees

    Other fees

    Concessions

    Fee waivers

    Camping

    Where and when to camp

    Campground facilities

    Campfires, firewood and cooking appliances

    Powered campsites and generators

    Group camping

    Online campsite booking terms and conditions

    Current campfire conditions

    Campgrounds availability for non-bookable campgrounds

    When to go

    Adventure activities

    Drones in parks

    Tours and accommodation

    Conducting an event in a park

    Pets in parks

    Getting around

    Park visitor guides, maps and itineraries

    Park visitor guides

    Aboriginal cultural heritage in parks

  • Get inspired
  • Where to stay
  • Park alerts

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