What is Wolfe Creek Crater?
Wolfe Creek Crater is a large meteorite crater in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, near Halls Creek. It is about 880 metres wide and one of the best-preserved meteorite craters in the world.
The crater was formed by a meteorite that struck the Earth around 120,000 years ago. The impact created a huge bowl-shaped crater, now partly filled with wind-blown sand.
The crater was first scientifically documented in 1947, after it was spotted during an aerial survey. However, it has long been known to the Djaru people, who call it Kandimalal.
Culture and visiting
In Djaru stories, the crater was formed by a rainbow serpent emerging from the ground. It is an important cultural site.
The crater is protected in Wolfe Creek Meteorite Crater National Park. Visitors can climb to the rim for views and walk down into the crater. Access is via an unsealed road from the Tanami Road.
The crater became widely known after the 2005 horror film Wolf Creek, which was set in the area, though the film's events are fictional. The best time to visit is during the dry season.