Karratha scouts hike Pilbara gorge

The entrance to George Gorge on the border of Millstream-Chichester National Park is already a spot only found by those in the know, but for the Karratha Scouts, those waterholes are just the tip of the iceberg.

A small group of venturers were led on a 30km, four-day hike through the entire gorge in early July, discovering some incredible vistas and big swimming holes along the way.

Venturer leader Stephen Clarke said the trip was a challenge but was well worth the effort for those who took it on.

“I went out there about five years ago wanting to find out if it was possible to bring some scouts to the area,” he said.

“Not much is known about that area and its adjoining areas in the national park.

“When you are going out there you aren’t just reading about it, you are understanding it.”

Mr Clarke said he hoped the participants would appreciate visiting these little-known sites.

Karratha Scouts group leader Dani Hage said finding well-guarded local secrets like George Gorge was an experience few people would ever have.

“Some of the scenery and wildlife you come across when you are out there is beautiful,” she said.

“It is a test of endurance but you get rewarded by the treats you find along the way.

“To find camping spots no one goes to, to find those isolated areas — that is a treat for people.”

With a few venturers almost old enough to become rovers, Ms Hage said there was now an opportunity to take on more 14-18-year-olds in the group.

“Being out there builds good comradeship, and it is nice to just be quiet and listen,” she said.

“It’s nice to get them away from the computers and everything else for a few days.”