Holmes Jungle Nature Park

Holmes Jungle Nature Park sits on the edge of Darwin's northern suburbs in Holmes, a pocket of monsoon forest and woodland where dogs are allowed on the walking tracks. The one condition is that they stay on a lead the whole time.

Lead rules

NT Parks and Wildlife allows dogs on the walking tracks and in the car parks, on a lead and under control at all times. Some rules apply to particular zones, so read the signs at the entrance.

The walk

The tracks are natural earth, winding through monsoon forest and woodland along Palm Creek. The main walk is short, around 3 km return, and takes in a hilltop area that looks over the forest and wetlands.

Birdlife is the draw, with red-backed fairy-wrens among the regulars.

Water and shade

Drinking water is available near the picnic areas, and the canopy shades much of the track. Parking is near the entrance and at the Hilltop Picnic Area.

Max: Shade doesn't beat the build-up humidity. Carry extra water and turn back early if your dog starts to lag.

Make a day of it

Heading back into the city afterwards, Four Birds Cafe ni Isabella and Postie Coffee are both good dog-friendly stops.

When to go

Start early, before the heat builds, and check the park is open before you set out in the wet season. It suits calm, lead-trained dogs and owners who like a quiet bushwalk.