Just when we thought we’d put our caravan power problems behind us, we woke up to another flat battery. This time, it was the Patrol! Apparently, anything involving electricity was determined to give us trouble on this trip.
Thankfully, we had something much more enjoyable planned while staying in Kununurra. We were heading back to Mirima National Park to tackle the 3.5km Yoorrnging Geranyem Banan Trail, one of the park’s more challenging walks.
We’d already explored some of Mirima’s easier walking paths and loved the spectacular sandstone formations. This time, we wanted to venture a little further into the park.
What we didn’t realise was that the walk had one last surprise waiting for us, right when we thought we’d finished!
Back to Mirima National Park Walks in Kununurra
We were staying at Hidden Valley Caravan Park during the second half of our ten-night visit to Kununurra. It had been a busy stop, with repairs to organise and ongoing problems with the caravan’s electrical system.
Mirima National Park was a welcome distraction from all of that.
Located just a few minutes from the centre of Kununurra, Mirima is known for its incredible layered sandstone formations. It’s often nicknamed the Mini Bungle Bungles, although it’s a destination worth visiting in its own right.
On our first visit, we’d explored the easier paths and enjoyed the scenery so much that we decided to return the following day.
This time, we were tackling the longest walk in the park.
Yoorrnging Geranyem Banan Trail: The 3.5km Grade 5 Loop
The Yoorrnging Geranyem Banan Trail, also known as the Painting on Rocks Trail, is a 3.5km loop through Mirima National Park.
It’s classified as a Grade 5 walk, which means it’s considerably more challenging than the shorter paths near the park entrance.
The trail takes walkers further into the sandstone range, with rocky sections, climbs, stairs and uneven surfaces along the way. There are also opportunities to appreciate the area’s cultural significance to the local Miriwoong Gajerrong people.
Official trail information recommends allowing around 2.5 hours to complete the walk, although the time needed will depend on your fitness, the conditions and how often you stop.
We’d done plenty of walks during our travels around Australia, but we knew this one would require a bit more effort.
What Makes This Mirima Walk Challenging?
One thing worth understanding about a Grade 5 walk is that the distance doesn’t tell the whole story.
Three and a half kilometres might not sound particularly far, but when you’re negotiating rocky ground, climbing stairs and working your way up and down uneven terrain, it can feel considerably longer.
The official trail description includes a ladder, stairs, short climbs and descents, with some sections requiring rock hopping or scrambling.
You’ll want sturdy footwear, plenty of water and enough time to complete the walk without rushing. Kimberley temperatures can also make walking much harder, so an early start is sensible.
And as we discovered, don’t assume that coming downhill means you’ve nearly finished!
We Thought We’d Finished the Walk!
After making our way through the rocky landscape and enjoying the spectacular scenery, we eventually started heading downhill.
Naturally, we thought that meant we were getting close to the car park.
We’d done the climbing, enjoyed the views and were ready to finish the walk.
Except the track had other ideas.
Instead of taking us back towards the car park, it started leading us away from it. And then we began climbing again!
There were more stairs. Then another set. And another climb.
By this point, we’d already mentally finished the walk, which probably made those extra stairs feel even harder.
It’s one thing to know you’ve got a climb ahead of you. It’s quite another to discover more climbing when you think the hard part is behind you.
You’ll have to watch the episode to hear what we had to say about that little surprise!
Was the Mirima National Park Grade 5 Walk Worth It?
Despite the unexpected extra climbing, absolutely.
The scenery throughout Mirima National Park is spectacular, and the longer walk gives you the opportunity to explore much more of the sandstone landscape than you can see from the shorter paths.
We particularly enjoyed the incredible rock formations, with their distinctive layers and colours. It’s hard to believe such a beautiful national park is so close to the centre of Kununurra.
Would we recommend the walk? Yes, provided you’re comfortable with the difficulty and prepared for the conditions.
If a Grade 5 walk isn’t for you, don’t let that put you off visiting Mirima. There are easier walking options that still give you a wonderful look at the park.
Watch Our Mirima National Park Walk on YouTube
If you’re wondering what the Grade 5 walk is really like, come along with us in Episode 7.
We start with yet another battery problem before heading out from Hidden Valley Caravan Park to explore Mirima National Park.
You’ll see the sandstone formations, the walking track and the moment we realise our hike isn’t quite over after all.
Planning to Walk at Mirima National Park?
Mirima is an easy national park to include in a visit to Kununurra, but it’s worth planning your walk around the conditions.
The Yoorrnging Geranyem Banan Trail is a 3.5km loop, classified as Grade 5. It’s best suited to walkers who are comfortable with rocky, uneven ground and some climbing.
Park entry fees apply, and you’ll need to bring your own drinking water. There are no opportunities to refill water bottles along the walk.
Before visiting, check the latest trail information and park alerts, particularly during periods of extreme heat.
You can find current details on the official Mirima National Park website.
More From Our Time in Kununurra
Mirima National Park was just one part of our stay in Kununurra.
We spent ten nights in town after our Gibb River Road adventure, getting repairs organised, having the caravan’s electrical system inspected and deciding whether we could continue across the Tanami Track.
If you’re planning a visit, we’ve also shared our experience of the easier Mirima walks, where we stayed and what happened with the caravan in our Mirima National Park and Kununurra guide.
As for the Grade 5 walk, we’re glad we went back to tackle it. The extra stairs might have caught us by surprise, but they certainly didn’t spoil the experience.
And at least this time, our biggest problem was a few more steps rather than another caravan breakdown!
With years of experience travelling Australia in a caravan, I’m passionate about helping others embark on their own unforgettable adventures. From off-grid camping tips to expert advice on planning the ultimate big lap of Australia, I share stories, practical hacks, and inspiration to make your journey stress-free and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just starting out, join me as I explore the beauty of Australia, one road at a time!
