THE COMPLETION of the Kalbarri Skywalk project is one step closer, with virtual fly-through footage created by Western Australia's Parks and Wildlife service.
The site is due to open early 2020. Two 100-metre-high skywalks with a connecting boardwalk between them will jut 25 metres and 17 metres beyond the rim of Murchison River Gorge at one of its highest points.
Known for its wildflowers, sandstone cliffs and variety of recreational activities, Kalbarri National Park saw more than 450,000 visitors in the 2018-19 financial year.
By improving access and infrastructure, the park's environment will be showcased to encourage more tourists to explore the town of Kalbarri and the Coral Coast's natural heritage.
The skywalk will become the newest site at the national park, taking the total number of individual sites to 15.
The tourism precinct will be found at West Loop, opposite the Murchison River bank from the popular Nature's Window site.
Two Aboriginal rangers have also been employed full time in the national park to help manage the increased tourism levels.
The universally accessible site will also include an environmentally friendly kiosk that will operate on low to nil emissions with an off-the-grid energy/power system.
There will also be toilets, shade shelters, and improved road and tourism infrastructure.
The inland gorge sites of the national park (including the new Skywalk, once open) are open from 6am-6pm daily, at a cost of $15 per vehicle (carrying up to 12 passengers).
WA has existing cliff face skywalks at The Gap near Albany and the granite skywalk at Castle Rock in Porongurup National Park.
IF YOU GO...
All coastal sites of Kalbarri National Park are free to visit. Bring drinking water, since there is no fresh water found in the park until the opening of the Skywalk cafe.
Access into the park is available for two-wheel and four-wheel-drive cars. Parking is available for recreational vehicles. Camping overnight is not allowed.
Read more: Rugged good looks but stay hydrated
