We allowed ourselves a rare departure from our usual early schedule this morning, enjoying the luxury of a later start before setting out for Edith Falls. Located within the western boundary of Nitmiluk National Park, these falls are a significant feature of the landscape, and we were eager to explore the upper reaches of the system.
We tackled the 1.6-kilometer track leading to the upper falls. The ascent rewarded us with a spectacular view of the water cascading over the ancient, rugged stone.
The water flows through several levels of dark, weathered rock before reaching the larger basin below. After a refreshing swim in the upper pool, which we found quite necessary given the heat, we descended via the shorter loop track to return to the parking area.
Following our time at the falls, we made our way to Katherine Gorge to finalize our arrangements for the coming days. We secured a booking for Saturday night and a spot on the Sunday morning boat tour to ensure we see the gorge system from the water.
Returning to our base, we spent some time processing the photography from the morning before seeking out further opportunities to cool down. We walked to the local thermal springs for a long soak.
The waterway here is exceptionally still, creating a perfect mirror for the paperbarks and pandanus trees that line the banks. The clarity of the water is remarkable, revealing the sandy bottom of the creek as it winds through the dense green scrub.
To finish the day, we opted for one final swim in the pool. Three separate swims in a single day is certainly a new record for us, but in the heat of the Australian Outback, it was the most practical way to spend the afternoon.
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