Gunlom Falls Reopens
- Kakadu National Park's Gunlom Falls, famously featured as Echo Lake in the film "Crocodile dundee," is set to reopen in May 2025, coinciding with the start of the...
- The reopening is strategically timed to align with the Karrimanjbekkan An-Me Kakadu-Taste of Kakadu event, scheduled from May 23-25, 2025.
- Access to the upper rock pool had been restricted since 2019 due to the original jetty's proximity to a culturally significant Indigenous site.
Gunlom Falls Reopens in Kakadu National Park, Just in Time for dry Season
Kakadu National Park’s Gunlom Falls, famously featured as Echo Lake in the film “Crocodile dundee,” is set to reopen in May 2025, coinciding with the start of the region’s dry season. The reopening marks a significant milestone for tourism in the park, offering visitors access to its iconic upper and lower pools.
The reopening is strategically timed to align with the Karrimanjbekkan An-Me Kakadu-Taste of Kakadu event, scheduled from May 23-25, 2025. A newly constructed jetty at the Upper pools provides enhanced access and panoramic views reminiscent of the film.
Improved Access and Cultural Sensitivity
Access to the upper rock pool had been restricted since 2019 due to the original jetty’s proximity to a culturally significant Indigenous site. The redesigned access point ensures visitors can safely reach the swimming pool while respecting the area’s cultural heritage.
The new pathway allows travelers easier access to the crocodile-free swimming pool and offers impressive views of Kakadu National Park, all while maintaining a respectful distance from the Indigenous cultural site.
Twin Falls to Follow Suit
Lauren Ganley, Chair of Kakadu Tourism, stated that the reopening of Gunlom Falls signifies “an important new era for the tourist future of the Kakadu National Park.” She emphasized the importance of respecting the legacy and culture of the traditional owners while showcasing the park’s unique offerings.
Ganley added that the Gunlom Falls project is part of a broader initiative to improve infrastructure throughout Kakadu National Park.The Twin Falls are also slated to reopen during the next dry season after infrastructure upgrades.Significant investments are planned to restore the park’s status as a leading global national park, according to Ganley.
Increased Tourism Spurs Accommodation Upgrades
The anticipated increase in visitors is also driving improvements in accommodation options. The cooinda Lodge is completing upgrades to its glamping tents, with 10 of 20 air-conditioned units now featuring private bathrooms, according to the Chair.
“Crocodile Dundee” Legacy
Gunlom Falls gained international recognition as “Echo lake” in the 1986 film “Crocodile Dundee.” The scene featured Mick Dundee, played by Paul hogan, leading journalist sue Charlton, portrayed by Linda Kozlowski, to the lake for a swim.
A re-edited version of “Crocodile Dundee” is scheduled to be released in Australian cinemas on May 8. A related documentary, “Love of an Icon: The Legend of Crocodile Dundee,” has already been released.
Visiting Gunlom Falls
gunlom falls is located in the southern region of Kakadu National park, approximately one hour by car from Cooinda and four and a half hours from darwin. A large, emerald-colored billabong at the base of the falls is open for swimming from May to October, weather permitting.The trail to the upper rock pools is steep and takes approximately 15-20 minutes to hike.
Gunlom Falls Reopens: Your Ultimate Guide to Kakadu’s Iconic spot
What is Gunlom Falls and Why is it Famous?
Gunlom Falls, located in Kakadu National Park, is a stunning waterfall and swimming hole that gained international fame as “echo Lake” in the 1986 film “Crocodile Dundee.” The scene where Mick Dundee, played by Paul Hogan, takes Sue Charlton, played by linda Kozlowski, for a swim is iconic.
When is Gunlom Falls Reopening?
gunlom Falls is set to reopen in May 2025, coinciding with the start of Kakadu’s dry season.
Why is the Reopening of gunlom Falls Significant?
The reopening of Gunlom Falls marks a significant milestone for tourism in Kakadu National Park. It provides visitors access to both the upper and lower pools, offering access to a popular location.
How Has access to Gunlom Falls Been Improved?
Redesigned access: The access point to the upper rock pool has been redesigned to ensure visitors can safely reach the swimming pool while respecting the area’s cultural heritage.
New Pathway: A new pathway provides easier access to the crocodile-free swimming pool.
Is There a Cultural Significance to Gunlom Falls?
Yes, the area around Gunlom Falls has cultural significance to Indigenous Australians. The redesigned access point ensures that visitors can enjoy the falls while maintaining a respectful distance from culturally significant sites.
What Other Improvements are Planned for Kakadu National Park?
The Gunlom Falls project is part of a broader initiative to improve infrastructure throughout Kakadu National Park which will include the reopening of Twin Falls during the next dry season.
What Can Visitors Expect Upon Reopening?
Visitors can look forward to enhanced access to the upper and lower pools, panoramic views, and a chance to experience the beauty that made “Crocodile Dundee” a global phenomenon.
Does the reopening Coincide with any Events?
Yes, the reopening is timed to align with the Karrimanjbekkan An-Me Kakadu-Taste of Kakadu event, scheduled from May 23-25, 2025.
What Accommodation Upgrades Are Being Made?
The anticipated increase in visitors is driving improvements in accommodation options, such as Cooinda Lodge completing upgrades to its glamping tents, including private bathrooms in some units.
How Do I Get to gunlom Falls?
Gunlom Falls is located in the southern region of Kakadu National park.
Driving Distance from Cooinda: Approximately one hour by car.
Driving Distance from Darwin: Approximately four and a half hours.
When is the Best Time to Visit Gunlom Falls?
The large billabong at the base of the falls is open for swimming from May to October,weather permitting,coinciding with the dry season.
how Long is the Hike to the Upper Rock Pools?
The trail to the upper rock pools is steep and takes approximately 15-20 minutes to hike.
What is the Legacy of “Crocodile Dundee” at Gunlom Falls?
Gunlom Falls, known as “Echo Lake” in the film, is forever tied to the legacy of “Crocodile Dundee.” The film scene featuring the falls popularized the location worldwide. A re-edited version of “Crocodile Dundee” is scheduled to be released in Australian cinemas on May 8.
Key Information at a Glance:
Here is a summary of key information about Gunlom Falls:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Reopening Date | May 2025 |
| Famous For | “Echo Lake” in “Crocodile Dundee” |
| location | Kakadu National Park, Southern Region |
| Swimming Season | May to october (weather permitting) |
| Access Changes | Redesigned access to upper pools, new pathway |
| Driving Time from Cooinda | Approx. 1 hour |
| Driving Time from Darwin | Approx. 4.5 hours |
| Hike Time to Upper Pools | 15-20 minutes (steep) |