The series of 13 gorges in Nitmiluk National Park is known as Katherine Gorge.
Katherine Gorge is the popular name for a dramatic chain of sandstone gorges carved by the Katherine River in Australia’s Northern Territory. The system consists of 13 connected gorges, although water levels and rapids can make some sections appear separated during the dry season. Boat cruises commonly explore the first few gorges, while canoeing and hiking provide other ways to experience the landscape.
The river has cut deeply into ancient sandstone, creating narrow passages, steep walls, waterfalls, and pools. Nitmiluk Gorge is the central attraction of Nitmiluk National Park, located about 23 kilometres northeast of the town of Katherine. The park’s name comes from the Jawoyn language and is associated with “cicada dreaming.”
Katherine Gorge is also an important cultural landscape for the Jawoyn people, who are the traditional custodians of the area. The name Nitmiluk National Park is now officially preferred, and “Katherine Gorge” is often used for the gorge system itself. Geikie Gorge, Windjana Gorge, and Kings Canyon are different Australian landmarks.