Western Australia is our country’s largest state and is famous for its epic landscapes. The Pilbara is home to evidence of the earliest-known life on land, Burringurrah (also known as Mount Augustus) is the largest rock ever discovered on Earth, and Wolfe Creek is recognised as the second-largest crater in the world! It’s no surprise, then, that Kalbarri and the surrounding areas have their fair share of incredible geologic formations.
Mother Nature has spent millions of years sculpting our stunning landscapes and it’s our privilege to show visitors around them on our Kalbarri Tours. Kalbarri National Park and its surroundings offer some of the best geological formations in Western Australia, and while there are plenty to choose from, we’ve rounded up five that you simply can’t miss.
Whether you’re into photography, hiking, or just soaking in the scenery, these formations offer a taste of Kalbarri’s rich geological story. Let’s get started! And if you have any questions for the D’Guy Journeys team, please feel free to contact us for the answers you need.
Nature’s Window – The Iconic Frame of Kalbarri National Park
For anyone visiting Kalbarri, Nature’s Window is a must-see. This natural rock arch, formed from layers of sandstone, perfectly frames the meandering Murchison River below. A popular spot for selfies and group photos, Nature’s Window offers an opportunity to snap that picture-perfect moment while taking in the expansive view of the gorge.
You’ll find this gem in the Loop section of Kalbarri National Park, accessible by a short 1-kilometre walk from the car park. The hike itself isn’t too difficult, but we always recommend coming prepared with plenty of water and sun protection, especially in the summer months.
The Tumblagooda Sandstone, from which Nature’s Window is formed, dates back around 400 million years, revealing not just stunning scenery but also the deep history of the landscape. This is a prime example of how wind and water erosion have worked their magic, creating formations that leave even the most seasoned traveller in awe.
Already desperate to plan your visit to Nature’s Window? Our Kalbarri Inland and River Gorges Tour stops here as well as the equally popular Z Bend Lookout (more on that below) and the thrilling Kalbarri Skywalk.
Z Bend – Kalbarri’s Jaw-Dropping Gorge Views
Just down the road from Nature’s Window, you’ll find the dramatic Z Bend Lookout, named after the sharp bend the Murchison River takes as it cuts through the landscape. The lookout overhangs what is one of Kalbarri’s most striking geological formations, offering visitors panoramic views of deep red and orange sandstone cliffs.
To reach Z Bend Lookout, you’ll embark on a short, moderately easy walk from the car park (around 600m each way) that rewards you with awe-inspiring views of the river gorge below. For the more adventurous, there’s the optional River Trail that descends steeply into the gorge, where you can walk along the riverbanks and get an up-close view of the ancient rock layers.
Z Bend also showcases the variety of environments that make Kalbarri special, from arid plateaus at the top to lush vegetation down by the river. It’s a favourite spot for nature lovers and those keen on understanding the geology of Western Australia, as the cliff walls expose millions of years of sedimentation, erosion, and tectonic activity.
Be sure to read our Ultimate Guide to Kalbarri National Park when you have finished here. It’s filled with the essential information you need to plan a visit to this one-of-a-kind place.
Island Rock and Natural Bridge – Wonders of the Kalbarri Coast
Kalbarri’s natural beauty isn’t confined to its inland gorges; the coastline is equally spectacular, with its towering cliffs and rugged rock formations. And among the most dramatic coastal features here are Island Rock and the Natural Bridge.
Island Rock, a lone stack of weathered sandstone standing sentinel in the ocean, was once part of the mainland. Over time, powerful waves eroded the softer rock around it, leaving behind this solitary formation. Nearby, the Natural Bridge is exactly what it sounds like – an arch formed by the relentless action of the sea pounding against the cliffs. The forces of nature here are on full display, as the limestone cliffs bear the marks of millennia of coastal erosion.
You can visit both Island Rock and the Natural Bridge via a scenic walk along the coastal cliffs. The views are unbeatable, especially at sunset when the cliffs glow a fiery red. For those interested in marine life, it’s worth keeping an eye out – the coastline is a popular spot for spotting whales during the migration season (June to November). You might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of humpback whales breaching offshore!
If you want to explore this remarkable coastline, we think you’ll love our Coastal Cliffs and Pink Lake Tour from Kalbarri. During migration season, we even take you to all the best whale-spotting spots! And if you’re interested in Pink Lake, scroll down to find out more!
Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs – Ancient Coastlines and Dramatic Vistas
Island Rock and Natural Bridge are part of the wider Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs. Dating back over 400 million years and towering up to 100 metres above the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean, this sprawling geological formation offers a dramatic contrast between the land and sea and is home to some of the most scenic lookouts in our region.
Several designated viewpoints along the coastal cliffs, such as Red Bluff, Pot Alley, and Eagle Gorge, provide excellent vantage points to take in the seemingly endless rugged beauty. The cliffs are made from Tumblagooda Sandstone, the same ancient rock that forms Nature’s Window, and their bold red hues come to life at sunrise and sunset, making them a photographer’s dream.
In addition to their striking appearance, these cliffs also hold geological significance. Fossils of ancient marine life can be found embedded in the rock, providing insight into the prehistoric environments that once existed here.
We chose a visit to the Coastal Cliffs as one of our picks for the top 5 things to do in Kalbarri!
Pink Lake – Nature’s Vibrant Palette on Display Near Kalbarri
While not technically part of Kalbarri National Park, Hutt Lagoon, better known as Pink Lake, is just a short drive from town and is one of Western Australia’s most unique natural wonders. This saltwater lake takes on a brilliant pink hue due to the presence of algae that produce beta-carotene – the same pigment found in carrots!
The colour of the lake ranges from soft lilac to deep bubble-gum pink depending on the time of day and the season. It’s best viewed in full sunlight when the vibrant colours are at their most striking. In addition to its visual appeal, Pink Lake plays an important role in local industry, as the algae are harvested for use in cosmetics and food colouring.
Whether you’re fascinated by its unusual colour or just looking for a unique addition to your Kalbarri itinerary, Hutt Lagoon is well worth the trip. In addition to the Coastal Cliffs and Pink Lake Tour from Kalbarri, we also visit Pink Lake on our Cruise Ship Delight: Kalbarri Full-Day Excursion, an excursion curated for cruise passengers stopping at Geraldton.
Check out our blog Western Australia’s Incredible Pink Lakes for more pre-trip reading!
Explore Kalbarri National Park and More with Our Tours!
Remember, these are only the 5 best Kalbarri geologic formations in our opinion today! With so many to choose from, we have a habit of changing our minds. The ultimate way to see all the highlights and enjoy unforgettable experiences is on our Kalbarri Tours. Browse our range and find the perfect fit for you. We can even design one of our custom tours in Kalbarri tailored to your needs.
Do you have any questions for the D’Guy Journeys team? Simply contact us for all the information you need!
