If you are visiting Karratha, Western Australia you simply must put a day trip to Python Pool in the Millstream Chichester National Park on your itinerary. Located only 1 & 1/2 hours drive inland from Karratha, Python Pool is a beautiful spot to enjoy a swim, packed lunch and if the waterfall is flowing you may want to hike up and explore the water pools and the view from the top.
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How far is Python Pool?
Python Pool is located 120kms south east of Karratha in the Millstream Chichester Ranges National Park.
Is Python Pool 2WD accessible?
It is accessed via a combination of well sign posted sealed and graded roads. Once you arrive at the carpark it’s an easy 200m walk to the pool.
Can you swim at Python Pool?
Absolutely! It’s a stunning swimming hole that is filled by water that falls from rock pools located on top of the large red cliffs above. If the water is not flowing and it is quite hot, it is recommended to keep your head above the water.
What’s the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Python Pool is after some rain and while there are warmer temperatures to enjoy a swim. This is typically early autumn to early winter, so March – June. While there is usually a lot of rain during summer, the day time temperatures can rise to over 50 degrees. During winter the water is usually too cold for swimming.
We visited in Summer on our way back from Hamersley Gorge in the Karijini National Park. There hadn’t been much rain so the waterfall wasn’t flowing. The water was quite warm but still gave us some relief from the Summer heat and the cliffs provided some shade in the later part of the day.
Can you climb to the top of Python Pool?
If you are feeling adventurous there is a goat trail to the top of Python Pool. If it’s been raining you will find a magnificent array of pools and smaller waterfalls, including the infamous infinity pools that looks over the top of Python Pool and the ranges. This is a challenging walk with steep inclines, undefined tracks and some rock climbing involved. Allocate several hours to climb up and explore the top of Python Pool and be sure to take plenty of water with you.
Check out this short video by Electric Images Australia which takes you on a tour of the top of Python Pool. I can’t wait to visit again (when it’s a little cooler) and explore the top of Python Pool.
What facilities are at Python Pool?
Drop toilets are located in the carpark at Python Pool. The carpark is only 200m from Python Pool.
Can you bring dogs?
No. Python Pool is located in the Millstream Chichester Ranges National Park and dogs are not permitted within National Parks.
Can you camp at Python Pool?
You can’t camp at Python Pool however the nearest campsite is at Miliyana Campground near the Millstream Homestead. This is approximately 1 hours drive south of Python Pool. Bookings are essential and camping fees apply.
Python Pool Map
Python Pool Summary
Is Python Pool worth visiting? Yes, yes yes! Especially if there has been some rain, the waterfall is running and you want to explore the rockpools and waterfalls at the top. The striking red cliffs that surround Python Pool are breath taking and it’s a lovely place to swim, enjoy a packed lunch and relax before heading back to Karratha or back to your campsite.
Distance: 120km from Karratha
Features: swimming, hiking, toilets
What to Bring: bathers, towels, walking shoes, packed lunch, plenty of water
Dogs: Python Pool is located within a National Park so no dogs allowed
Map: see above
Looking for more North West Adventure! Check out the Always Adventure Ready North West Adventures Guide!
Lauren Angove is an adventurous Perth (Western Australia) Mum of two boys who loves to blog about her experiences to inspire other mid-lifers to choose their most adventurous lives now. Keep up to date with her latest adventure inspiration and advice at Always Adventure Ready on facebook.
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