- Boardwalks, picnic areas, and carparks part of improved visitor facilities at Knox Gorge
- Delivers better accessibility and visitor experiences while protecting the park's natural and cultural values
- New tourism infrastructure will attract more visitors and support local jobs
- Part of Cook Labor Government's promise to help people enjoy and appreciate nature
The Cook Labor Government continues to encourage Western Australians to get out into nature, with major upgrades now complete in the Pilbara's Karijini National Park.
The $2.1 million upgrades at spectacular Knox Gorge include:
- A new accessible path and raised steel boardwalk leading to the Knox Gorge Lookout, improving access for a broader range of visitors including those in wheelchairs;
- A significantly expanded carpark, delivering 73 car bays and 12 long vehicle bays, which will also support access to the highly anticipated Red Gorge Trail;
- New toilet facilities to improve visitor comfort and amenity; and
- New and upgraded picnic facilities.
Delivering on the government's 2025 election commitment to invest in regional tourism, the improvements will allow visitors to experience Karijini's unique biodiversity firsthand and develop a deeper appreciation of the need to protect it.
The works were funded via the Royalties for Regions Karijini National Park Improvement Project and Outdoor Adventure Tourism Red Gorge Trail Project.
The project was delivered by a range of contractors, including Pilbara-based Aboriginal business MIB Projects, and overseen by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
Planning continues to progress on the Red Gorge Trail, with environmental and cultural heritage surveys underway.
The completed concept design features a trail alignment offering views from lookout structures, with the project on track to go to tender for construction in mid-2027.
As stated by Premier and Tourism, Trade and Investment Minister Roger Cook:
"Karijini National Park is one of WA's most iconic tourism drawcards, attracting up to 650,000 visits a year from across Australia and around the world.
"Investing in high-quality tourism infrastructure like this supports local businesses, creates jobs, and strengthens the Pilbara's position as a must-visit destination."
As stated by the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
"This latest project builds on our significant investment in Karijini over the past three years, which has included the new Knox Gorge Lookout and sealing 41 kilometres of access roads for two-wheel-drive vehicles between Weano Gorge, Karijini Eco Retreat, and Dales Gorge.
"We are excited for visitors to experience the park's stunning landscapes while learning about the area's rich cultural heritage, and these upgrades will only help enhance their experience."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The Cook Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to invest in regional tourism infrastructure and enhance the visitor experience at one of Western Australia's most remarkable destinations.
"This work demonstrates how targeted regional investment can deliver lasting benefits for local communities while strengthening key tourism assets."
As stated by Pilbara Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"The Pilbara is home to some of the most unique and captivating landscapes in the world, and Karijini National Park is the jewel in the crown.
"By improving facilities at Knox Gorge, we're encouraging repeat visits, supporting local tourism and hospitality operators, and diversifying the Pilbara economy for the future."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"It's fantastic to see local businesses, including Aboriginal contractors, playing a key role in delivering these upgrades.
"These improvements will support tourism growth in our region while protecting the unique environment that makes Karijini so special."
