What is the Gibb River Road?
The Gibb River Road is a famous outback track in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. It runs about 660 kilometres between Derby and the Great Northern Highway near Wyndham and Kununurra.
The road was originally built as a route for moving cattle from remote stations to the ports of Derby and Wyndham. Today it is one of Australia's best-known four-wheel-drive adventures.
Most of the road is unsealed, with corrugations, river crossings and dust. A high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended, and drivers should carry spare tires, water and supplies.
Gorges and waterholes
The road gives access to spectacular gorges such as Windjana Gorge, Bell Gorge, Manning Gorge and Galvans Gorge, where travelers can swim beneath waterfalls. Windjana Gorge is known for its freshwater crocodiles resting along the riverbanks.
The eastern section passes El Questro Wilderness Park and Home Valley Station, and crosses the Pentecost River, a wide and sometimes risky crossing with views of the Cockburn Range.
The road is usually open only in the dry season, from about May to October. Heavy wet season rains can flood creeks and make the track impassable for months, so travelers should check road reports before setting out.
Did You Know?
Mobile phone coverage is very limited along the Gibb River Road, so many travelers carry a satellite phone or emergency beacon.