Litchfield National Park

You simply can’t visit the Top End without heading to Litchfield National Park.

With over 1500 square kilometres for you to explore featuring just about every habitat variation found in the Northern Territory, you’ll be in awe of its beauty.

The parklands are believed to have been formed by the ancestral spirits of the Koongurrukun, Rak Mak Mak Marranunggu, Werat and Warray peoples in the beginning. They formed the abundant landscape and the plants and animals that inhabit it, and they are thought to still be present in the land today. The area is rich in resources used by the local Aboriginal peoples, and the Tabletop Range at the head of the park is intrinsically linked to the spirituality and beliefs of the traditional owners.

Stunning waterfalls are scattered throughout the park. Take the hike to individual viewing platforms for panoramic views or meet the falls at their base and dive into their crystal-clear plunge pools. Wet season may see some pools closed due to the risk of flash flooding and the presence of crocodiles, but through the dry season visitors and locals can be seen swimming under several falls in the park. The authorities check the waters for crocodiles and flooding before opening them for the dry season, so rest assured the waterholes are as safe as possible.

With well-developed roads and a relatively flat landscape, Litchfield National Park is easily accessible to the everyday visitor. Popular waterfalls and lookout points are generally accessible in a 2WD car and roads are only closed during wet seasons as a safety precaution when flooding may occur. Roads through the park will have you winding through the picture-perfect landscape alongside rivers and changing habitats until you reach your destination.

The Bamboo Creek Tin Mine is a heritage listed mining site that was used sporadically until it was abandoned in 1955. With some of the old buildings still standing you can explore the remaining equipment used to extract, process and transport ore as well as see a variety of domestic objects. The mine also serves as a reminder of the impact Europeans had on Indigenous land.

If travelling in a 4WD, then you can access the Blyth Homestead. Here you can learn about the Sargent family and be reminded of the tough time endured during the Great Depression by many people in the Top End. The Blyth Homestead is one of the best remaining examples of Top End bushcraft architecture.

Litchfield National Park is also home to the iconic Magnetic Termite Mounds. At up to 100 years old and 2m tall, the mounds are unique to the Top End. Each mound provides protection to the colony that built it. Unlike the termites most people are familiar with, those in the Litchfield National Park don’t feed on wood but the dead grass surrounding their homes. The mounds are famous for their north-south axis. The termites build them in such direction as it ensures maximum sun exposure.

Litchfield National Park is possibly one of the Top End’s best kept secrets. Quieter than other national parks but with just as many stunning natural views and experiences, you’ll love every second!