Heading west, detours are possible deep into the grasslands strewn with termite mounds and river gorges that make up Gregory National Park.

Close to Kununurra, the massive Lake Argyle, constructed by damming to provide water for the Ord River Irrigation Scheme, allows this area to produce vast quantities of crops. Also produced here, but in fewer numbers, are the remarkable Argyle Diamonds, famous for their "champagne" colouring. The Keep River National Park, north of town, includes the large Nganalum aboriginal art site.

Southwest from here, along the main highway is the access road to Purnululu National Park containing the famous Bungle Bungle Ranges. While they can be seen from the 4WD track, a flight over them is an unforgettable experience. It's also ecologically sound, as the rock formations are quite fragile and easily damaged.

Travelling north again to rejoin the Gibb River Rd, you can stop at El Questro Station. Here you will find accommodation ranging from camping to luxury, as well as several gorges to explore and swim in, and aboriginal rock art sites. Pushing further in towards the Kimberly coast allows the well equipped to visit remote attractions such as the multiple rock falls and pools that make up Mitchell Falls, and to visit aboriginal communities.

Numerous other gorges are accessible as you continue along the Gibb River Rd, with the most famous including Adcock, Windjana and Geikie. Carved out over aeons by the Fitzroy River, Geikie gorge offers stunning views at sunrise and sunset as the colour changes of the steep walls are reflected in the still, deep waters of the gorge.