2023.07 - Tunnel Creek
Xander and Leanne Walk, scramble and swim through the pitch black remnants of a prehistoric Coral Reef.
This is the 2nd post in my series documenting our adventures in the Kimberley, start at the beginning here.
Our 28 hour road-trip was behind us and we were brimming with excitement! Tunnel Creek sounded incredible; a gorge that closes up overhead, wading, maybe even swimming required, and possible fresh water crocodiles!
Approach
We left the comfort of the highway behind and navigated the 69km of gravel to Tunnel Creek. We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the road. Lot’s of twists and turns, some shallow creek crossings, cows, and views all necessitated a slow speed, but a two wheel drive would still be capable of this journey.
We arrived at 10:00 am and were a little disappointed to find three tour buses and a dozen other vehicles already on site, however this didn’t end up posing much of a problem. We crossed paths with one of the tour groups on the path to the entrance, and leapfrogged other travellers throughout, but mostly had our own space in the cave.
Into the Dark
At the entrance we scrambled over a small creek and some boulders realising almost immediately we’d made the wrong choice of footwear. On the riverbed, the trail had become a sandy bank giving way to gravel and then a deep pool disappearing into the dark. We packed our hiking boots into our dry bag, and waded out into the darkness.
In moments it was too deep to stand. We held our torches above the surface in one hand and swum with the other. Bobbing towards a single reflector in the distance, accompanied by the gurgle of nearby running water.
After about 20 metres of swimming we felt sand underfoot and the eerie atmosphere dispersed as we climbed onto dry land.
Further into the cave there was plenty more wading, but we kept our feet on solid ground, and were rewarded for our efforts with bats and beautiful cave formations.
Shared Experiences
In the middle part of the cave another couple caught up to us. I was impressed to see they had made it this far with their toddler in tow. A combination of; a life jacket, piggy backs and the promise of tiny teddies, seemed to be keeping her satisfied. We connected over the shared excitement and confusion of the experience, and when we passed a hole in the ceiling we were able to help each other out with photos.
Return
Despite the lack of markers it’s very simple to know when to turn around. The cave opens up revealing a lush creek offering a chance to warm up, or even swim, in the sun.
Our timing worked out great, we had enough time to warm up and rest before a large group of families arrived. We were able to stay ahead of them for the reverse journey, which we enjoyed just as much as the way there!
Reflections
Tunnel Creek is the ultimate Nature Playground, and we loved seeing it bring out the inner child of all the visitors we passed.
This is exactly the type of immersive adventure I created Xander's Meanders to promote. If you have the chance to go there don't miss out!
Trail Tips
Logistics
This destination is a simple and worthwhile detour from Great Northern Highway.
Although our guidebook recommended arriving early to beat the tour groups. I suggest that it would also be a good option to come in the afternoon to get out of the sun, allowing for a jam packed itinerary.
Equipment
Dress for canyoning; quick-dry active-wear
Reef Shoes - This trail isn’t long but you’re in and out of water a lot, and there’s plenty of gravel. Reef shoes will offer the most comfort.
Links
https://trailswa.com.au/trails/trail/tunnel-creek-tunnel-creek-np-kimberley