Bell Gorge

The basics

Multi-day tours of the Kimberley region make it easy to visit the Bell Gorge or “Dalmanyi” area, where you can hike along the 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) Bell Gorge Trail or swim in the natural swimming hole beneath the waterfall. Many travelers also opt to visit independently as part of a road trip along the Gibb River Road, perhaps camping at the nearby Silent Grove Campground. It’s also possible to admire the views from above on a scenic flight or helicopter ride.

Things to know before you go

Don’t forget your swimsuit and towel, as Bell Gorge is an excellent spot for swimming. There is an admission fee to visit the Wunaamin Conservation Park, which includes Bell Gorge. The remote site has a restroom but no other facilities, so bring everything you need with you, including sunscreen and plenty of water. Bell Gorge is only accessible for visitors with good mobility, as you’ll need to walk and scramble along the creek to reach the swimming hole. Sturdy hiking shoes are preferable.

How to get there

Getting to the Bell Gorge is all part of the fun. The gorge is part of the Wunaamin Conservation Park and lies about 18 miles (30 kilometers) from Gibb River Road along Silent Grove Road. You’ll need a 4WD to access the road, and it’s a short walk from the parking area along Bell Creek to reach the swimming hole. Note that the gorge and the Gibb River Road are inaccessible during the wet season (typically from November through April).

When to get there

Crowds flock to Bell Gorge in the dry season from May through September, when the cooler, less humid weather is more favorable for road tripping. The waterfall and swimming hole are most impressive at the start of the season, topped up by the wet season rains that run down from Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges. The popular spot can get busy, so arrive early or late in the day to dodge the crowds.

Exploring the wild Gibb River Road

The remote Gibb River Road is one of Western Australia’s most adventurous road trips, traversing the Kimberley region between Derby and the Kununurra. The 410-mile (660-kilometer) 4WD-only road trip takes in natural wonders like Bell Gorge, the waterfalls of Lennard Gorge, and the swimming hole of Manning Gorge, as well as the dramatic cliffs and bushwalking trails of Windjana Gorge National Park and the ancient aboriginal cave paintings in Tunnel Creek National Park.