Butterfly Gorge Nature Park
Overview
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This gorge is tucked away at the base of a low sandstone plateau. The sheer rock faces, edged by dense vegetation and rocky spinifex country, offer shaded riverine walks and beautiful scenery.
The Wagiman people speak for this land and believe their ancestors are here.
The Park protects a part of the Douglas River that eventually flows into the Daly River about 50km downstream.
How to Get There
The Park is close to Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs Park, approximately 130 km from Katherine and 200 km from Darwin along the old Stuart Highway scenic route. The final 17 km into the Park is a four-wheel drive track. Caravans cannot be taken into this Park.
When to Visit
It is only possible to visit the Park during
the dry season (May - September). Each year during the wet season,
heavy rains close the park.
Consult maps and check road conditions on 1 800 246 199 prior to your visit.
What to See and Do
It is safe to swim in Butterfly Gorge, and this is a terrific spot for a picnic.
Visitor Facilties
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Camping is not allowed at Butterfly Gorge, however you may camp nearby at Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs Park. There is no kiosk at the Gorge.
Please Remember
Safety and comfort
- Observe park safety signs.
- Swim only where recommended, observe warning signs.
- Carry and drink plenty of water.
- Wear a shady hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Wear suitable clothing and footwear.
- Carry a first aid kit.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day.
- Ensure your vehicle is well maintained and equipped.
Please remember
- Put your rubbish in the bin or take it away with you.
- Keep to designated roads and tracks.
- All cultural items and wildlife are protected.
- Pets are not permitted in this Park.
- Nets, traps and firearms are not permitted.
- Camping is not permitted.
- Check that your vehicle is not transporting pests like weeds and Cane Toads.
Fact Sheet
- Download fact sheet (pdf 266Kb)
Recreational Activities
- 4 x 4 Driving
The track to Butterfly Gorge is only accessible by 4wd vehicles. - Swimming
A swim across the main pool and through the narrowest of gorges will get you to the upper pools. A little climbing and swimming leads to one of the most beautiful and peaceful gorges in the Northern Territory. - Walking Tracks
The gorge and main swimming area is a 10 minute walk from the carpark. Continue on from the main pool via some rocky sections. More enthusiastic walkers may climb up the rocky slopes to reach the top of the gorge with views of rockpools. Please remember - Do not walk alone - and beware of slippery rocks.
Plants and Animals
Below the Gorge is an extensive paperbark forest with some trees up to 45 metres tall. Large Leichhardt trees also form an enchanting forest along the riverbank.
A population of Short-eared Rock Wallabies inhabits the escarpment around Butterfly Gorge. Native birds of many varieties are abundant in the bush around the gorge, and as it's name implies, it is also home to large populations of butterflies.