Shothole Canyon
Home | Cape Range National Park, WA
Australia's Coral Coast Tourism - Paul Pichugin
Australia's Coral Coast Tourism - Paul Pichugin
Australia's Coral Coast Tourism - Paul Pichugin
12 people have added this to their Bucket List
Overview
Highlights
Shothole Canyon is a must-see natural bucket list attraction located in the Cape Range National Park on Western Australia's Coral Coast, near Exmouth. The 12km scenic drive along the floor of this spectacular gorge takes 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.
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.
Discover vibrant rock walls contrasting with a colourful carpet of over 630 varieties of spring wildflowers in Shothole Canyon, arguably the most picturesque ravine in rugged Cape Range National Park. The canyon is around 14 hours north of Perth and 25 minutes south of Exmouth by road, or you can fly from Perth to nearby Learmonth Airport, where car hire is available. Flights depart daily and take just under two hours.
Visit in early spring and you’ll find a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, many that are unique to the area, such as the beautiful green bird flower. Hit the walking trail at the bottom of the canyon and you may encounter some of the native wildlife – emus, echidnas, lizards, wallabies, kangaroos, dingoes and a variety of birds that call the national park home.
Extend your canyon adventure with another scenic drive through Charles Knife Canyon, further to the south, stopping to admire the breathtaking views at the various lookouts along the way. Or venture around the other side of the Cape, where the breathtaking beaches of the Ningaloo Reef await.
Activities
- Sight-seeing
- Picnics
- Photography
- Hiking
- Scenic drive
- Four-wheel driving
Facilities
- Lookout
- Walking trails
Important Information
Guidelines
- Always do some research before heading out for your journey. Visit the local visitor information centre for the most up to date information.
- Stay safe and get the most out of your visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care.
- Wear suitable footwear and ensure to wear appropriate clothing to protect yourself from the elements when outside exploring.
- Plan ahead and ensure to take enough food and water for your journey.
- Always stay on the marked tracks where possible. Never climb fences, they are there for your own safety.
- Please consider the environment, take your rubbish with you or place in the bins provided. We want to ensure these beautiful places are still here for our future generations to enjoy.
- Ensure to let a responsible adult know of your plans and report back into them once you have finished exploring for the day.
- National park fees may apply for national parks in Western Australia. Check the parks website for bookings and/ or further details.
- Entry fees may change at anytime at the discretion of WA Parks and Wildlife Services, check their website for the most up to date information.
Photo credits: WA Parks and Wildlife Service & Australia's Coral Coast Tourism - Paul Pichugin
Content credits: Australia's Coral Coast Tourism, WA Parks and Wildlife Service & Aussie Bucket List®
Location & Supplier
Shothole Canyon
Address: Shothole Canyon, Shothole Canyon Rd, North West Cape WA 6707
Website: https://www.australiascoralcoast.com/destination/exmouth/cape-range-national-park/shothole-canyon
12 people have added this to their Bucket List
