Shothole Canyon

Shothole Canyon offers breathtaking views of Cape Range National Park near Exmouth.

Take a scenic drive around the canyon - a four wheel drive is required if self-driving the canyon, along with water and good footwear.

The gravel road meanders over dry creek beds along the gorge floor and offers a close examination of the three different colourful rock layers - Trealla, Tulki and Mandu limetstone layers, over the sheer canyon walls. If visiting between August to October, the canyon is often in colour with green scrub land coming to life with an abundance of wildflowers including many species that are unique to the area.

Join the walking trail at the bottom of the canyon to explore the national park. Visit the Exmouth Visitor Centre for a walking trail guide and guidance on safely traversing the canyons. Guided tours are available as part of a half or full-day hike.

Charles Knife Canyon Cape Range National Park near Exmouth Western Australia

Exmouth's Shothole Canyon was named after the shot holes left by the explosive charge fixed to set up miniature earthquakes for seismographic studies during the oil searches in the 1950s.

Whilst in the park, take the scenic drive through Charles Knife Canyon Gorge further south of Shothole and stop at the various lookouts for spectacular views. Look out for some of the 700 caves that are scattered throughout Cape Range.

How to get there

Shothole Canyon is located 25 minutes drive south from Exmouth, just north of the Learmonth airport.

Join a guided tour with

Ningaloo Safari Tours

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Learn more about Cape Range National Park

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