Boab Tree Trail

The Boab Tree at Louge River is a striking natural landmark located directly along the highway at the entrance to the West Kimberley region. Known for its massive, bottle-shaped trunk, this ancient tree stands out in the rugged landscape. Boabs (Adansonia gregorii) are significant to Indigenous cultures for their uses in food, medicine, and shelter.

The Boab Prison Tree in Derby is one of the most intriguing and historic landmarks in Western Australia's Kimberley region. This ancient and enormous Boab, estimated to be around 1,500 years old, features a hollow trunk with a circumference of over 14 meters. The tree's unique, cavernous interior has given rise to its name and historical significance.

In the late 19th century, the Boab Prison Tree was reportedly used as a temporary holding cell for Indigenous prisoners being transported to Derby. The tree's hollow trunk provided a natural enclosure, making it a convenient, albeit grim, site for confinement. This use, though a dark chapter in the region's history, highlights the tree's role in the broader narrative of Australia's colonial past.

Today, the Boab Prison Tree is a protected site, recognized for both its cultural heritage and natural beauty. Surrounded by a fenced area to preserve its integrity, the tree is a poignant reminder of the region's complex history. Visitors to Derby can view the Boab Prison Tree and reflect on its past, appreciating its majestic presence and the stories it silently holds.

Planted in Lytton Park in the mid-1990s, this boab tree developed its unique lean within months of planting. Over the years, it became a local curiosity. Finally, in the wet season of 2018, powerful storms caused it to tip over completely. Despite its tilt, the tree has remained resilient and continues to grow, embodying the strength and endurance of the Kimberley’s iconic boabs.

One Mile Camp, featuring the famous Dinner Tree, is a notable site near Derby in Western Australia's Kimberley region. Located approximately one mile from the town, this historic camp served as a resting point for drovers bringing cattle into Derby. The Dinner Tree, a large and ancient Boab, marks the site where drovers would stop to prepare their evening meal before making the final leg of their journey.

The Dinner Tree is renowned for its massive, distinctive trunk and wide, spreading branches, providing ample shade and a striking silhouette against the Kimberley sky. This iconic Boab not only offers a glimpse into the region's pastoral history but also serves as a testament to the resilience and longevity of these unique trees. Visitors to One Mile Camp can appreciate the historical significance and natural beauty of the Dinner Tree, making it a popular spot for those exploring the rich cultural landscape of the Kimberley.

Bridwood Downs Station boasts its own charming Boab Walk, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the iconic flora of the Kimberley region. Nestled within the station's picturesque landscape, this walk features a collection of Boab Trees, each with its own distinctive character and story to tell. Strolling along the tranquil pathways, visitors can admire the majestic beauty of these ancient trees, with their fascinating bottle-shaped trunks and sprawling branches. Whether it's a leisurely stroll or an educational excursion, the Boab Walk at Bridwood Downs Station provides a delightful experience, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the Kimberley.

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The Half-way Tree, located 86 kilometers from the turnoff on the right-hand side for eastbound travelers, is a well-known pit-stop between Derby and Fitzroy Crossing in the Kimberley. Originally, the Half-way Tree was on the opposite side of the road, while the current tree was known as the "Toilet Tree" due to its frequent use by travelers. Today, this Boab serves as a convenient rest spot, offering shade and a break for those journeying through the rugged landscape. Its distinctive, bottle-shaped trunk and historical significance make it a cherished landmark in the region.

At Galvans Gorge, a magnificent Boab Tree perched atop the waterfall stands as a highlight of the site, complementing the stunning cascade and ancient rock art. This iconic tree, with its distinctive bottle-shaped trunk, adds to the natural beauty and cultural significance of the gorge. The Boab's striking presence enhances the scenic landscape, making Galvans Gorge a must-visit destination in the Kimberley region.

Near Mount Hart along the track at Annie Creek lies a striking sight: a large Boab tree adorned with a strange fig. The Boab itself commands attention with its impressive size, while the strange fig adds an intriguing twist to the scene.

Visitors are drawn to the juxtaposition of the Boab's rugged beauty and the unusual presence of the fig, creating a scene that sparks curiosity and wonder. Against the backdrop of Annie Creek and the surrounding landscape, this natural spectacle offers a the perfect picnic stop along the track. Whether admired for its natural beauty or pondered for its botanical oddity, the Large Boab with Strange Fig near Mount Hart is a captivating feature of the Kimberley wilderness, inviting exploration and contemplation alike.

At Manning Gorge Campground, the boab tree stands as a natural icon, towering with its thick, water-storing trunk and sprawling branches. This majestic boab is not only a scenic highlight but also a marker of the ancient landscapes and cultural narratives of the Kimberley. Nearby, visitors can enjoy the gorge’s clear waters and rugged terrain, making the boab an inspiring symbol of resilience and connection to the land. It’s a must-see for those exploring Manning Gorge and seeking the unique beauty of the Kimberley’s boabs.

The Durack Tree, a majestic boab on the banks of the Durack River at El Questro, is steeped in Kimberley history. With its thick trunk and resilient presence, this boab has stood as a natural landmark for generations, witnessing the region's seasonal river flows and enduring landscape. A symbol of Kimberley endurance, it represents both the natural beauty and the pioneering legacy associated with the Durack family, early settlers in the area. This tree is an iconic stop for visitors seeking a deep connection to Kimberley's history and wild beauty.