Nitmiluk National Park is located in the Northern Territory of Australia, 244 kilometers southeast of Darwin and 23 kilometers northeast of the town of Katherine. It surrounds a series of gorges along the Katherine River and Edith Falls. The park was previously called Katherine Gorge National Park, and its northern boundary is next to Kakadu National Park. The gorges and nearby land are important for ceremonies by the local Jawoyn people, who are the keepers of the park. In the Jawoyn language, Nitmiluk means "place of the cicada dreaming."

Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

Nitmiluk Gorge, a deep canyon formed by the Katherine River flowing through ancient sandstone, is the main attraction of the park. The gorge includes thirteen separate sections with rapids and waterfalls, all along the Katherine River, which starts in Kakadu. During the dry season, which runs roughly from April to October, the water in Nitmiluk Gorge is calm in most areas, making it suitable for swimming and canoeing. Freshwater crocodiles may be found near the riverbanks, but they do not pose a danger to humans. Saltwater crocodiles often enter the river during the wet season, when water levels are high. These crocodiles are then removed and relocated to lower areas at the beginning of the dry season. Because of this, swimming is not allowed during the wet season. Cruises of different lengths travel as far as the fifth gorge. Nitmiluk Gorge was the final challenge and finish line for The Amazing Race Australia 4.

Facilities

The gorges can be explored by canoe and flat-bottomed boat. During the dry season, the river level drops, causing the gorges to become separate. In the wet season, they are connected again. A visitor center is located at Katherine Gorge, about 30 kilometers east of the town of Katherine. Displays at the center explain the geology, landscape, and Aboriginal history of the national park. Tours can be booked at the center or at the visitor center in the town.

There are two permanent campgrounds with areas for tents and caravans. Both campfires and bush camping are allowed. Many walking trails are available in the national park.

The Jatbula Trail follows the path used by generations of Jawoyn people between Katherine Gorge and Leliyn. It is named after Peter Jatbula, who helped secure land rights for his people and walked this route with his family. Some members of Peter Jatbula's family still live in the area and continue to care for the land.

Wildlife

Freshwater crocodiles live in the river throughout the year. During the wet season, higher water levels may allow saltwater crocodiles to enter the gorge. These crocodiles are moved to lower areas when the dry season starts. Birds that can be seen include ospreys, red-tailed black cockatoos, great bowerbirds, white-gaped honeyeaters, and red-winged parrots. Part of the Yinberrie Hills Important Bird Area, recognized by BirdLife International for its importance to endangered Gouldian finches, is located in the park.