Reynolds River Track: 2-day itinerary

The Reynolds River Track offers a thrilling off-road adventure through the heart of Litchfield National Park.

The 4WD road trip features spectacular waterfalls, tranquil swimming holes, historic Blyth Homestead and unique bush camps. You’ll encounter challenging river crossings and the remarkable natural beauty of the Top End less than two hours south of Darwin.

Overview

• Route: Begins at Litchfield Park Road near Tolmer Falls, ends at Daly River Road
• Distance: 44 km
• Duration: 2 days
• Difficulty: Medium (suitable for travellers with 4WD and creek crossing experience)
• Best Time: June – September
• Permits: An NT Parks Pass is required

Introduction

Embark on a true Top End adventure along the Reynolds River Track. The route is open only during the Dry season, when conditions are most favourable. Early in the season, river crossings may be deep, requiring a 4WD equipped with a snorkel, while later months offer firmer creek beds and shallow pools. Always remain vigilant for crocodiles and only swim in designated areas.

Why two days? While it’s true you could easily do the 44km-long Reynolds Track in a single day, we recommend you allow two days to enjoy the tranquillity of bush campsites at Tjaynera (Sandy Creek) Falls or Surprise Creek. Campsites must be pre-booked through NT Parks and Wildlife.

River crossings, waterfalls and history

• Visit the historic Blyth Homestead
• Swim in the rockpool beneath Tjaynera (Sandy Creek) Falls
• Enjoy a bush camp

Begin your adventure where the bitumen ends in southern Litchfield National Park. As you travel on the track you'll see changing landscapes and an array of wildlife, flora and fauna. Step back in time at Blyth Homestead, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s pioneering history as you wander around rustic, weathered buildings of the former outstation from the 1920s.

Continue south to Tjaynera Falls, where a 1.7km walk leads to a natural plunge pool carved by floods over millennia. Set up camp at the campground and enjoy the facilities. There are toilet and showers located here for a comfortable bush camping experience.

Surprise Creek, swimming and termite mounds

• East Reynolds River Crossing
• Termite mounds
• Surprise Creek’s swimming holes

Start your day with a swim at Tjaynera Falls before heading south to Surprise Creek. The East Reynolds River Crossing presents a true test for 4WD enthusiasts.

The track then continues south over large floodplains with vast numbers of magnetic termite mounds that are cleverly built to align north-south to regulate the temperature for resident termite colonies, and the occasional cathedral termite mound that stand like sentinels, some many metres tall that dwarf humans.

After exploring Surprise Creek’s unique pools, continue to the end of the track at Daly River Road.

Safety & Preparation

• High clearance 4WD vehicle with snorkel is recommended
• Be aware of creek crossings and prepare accordingly
• Make sure to bring and drink plenty of water (the water might not be available, or you might need to boil before drinking)
• Inform someone of your travel plans
• Check current park opening and road conditions on the NT Parks and Wildlife website
• Saltwater crocodiles inhabit NT waterways: always be croc-wise and only swim in designated areas
• Reynolds River Track is open during Dry season only
• A NT Parks Pass is required

Frequently asked questions