Mount Augustus Summit Trail

5 h to 8 h

11.3 km
return

↑ 689 m
↓ -689 m

Very challenging
Starting from the Flintstone - Beedoboondu car park off Mount Augustus Road, Mount Augustus National Park, this walk leads to the summit of Mount Augustus and back via the Summit Trail. An outstanding Outback mountain walk, Mount Augustus offers two routes to the summit, the easier Summit Trail and the extremely rugged Gully Trail, allowing walkers to choose their own adventure. The trails are well signed for most of its length, with the markers supplemented with painted dots on the rock. The first section of the Summit Trail is relatively gentle and easy-going, but the gentle gradient ends as the trail reaches a junction with the Gully Trail. At this point, walkers can choose to add an extra level of difficulty to their walk by switching to the Gully Trail, or take the easier going Summit Trail. While no scrambling is required along the Summit Trail (aside from a few minor spots near the summit), the section beyond the junction is much steeper and more difficult. While the junction is a clear division point, the steep climbing continues on for a few hundred metres more, with some walking along some rocky ridgelines. The trail evens out as it makes its way across the flats to the summit, then the landscape narrows as the trail skirts the edge of a steep slope leading towards the summit. Following the contours eastwards, the trail takes a sudden turn south as the final ascent to the summit begins. This is the only part of the walk that requires some scrambling. The man-made rock cairn will let you know that you've made it to the summit. The view from the summit is remarkable, with extensive views over the surrounding plain, river systems and distant ranges. This is a very demanding walk, and it's important that you are well prepared and understand the risks. The conditions are extremely rugged with little to no shade and the radiant heat can exceed 50°C, making heatstroke and dehydration a real risk. Take all necessary precautions before you set off on a hike and make an early start if you want to complete the walk in the cooler hours. Ensure you have sturdy footwear and carry at least 3 to 4 litres of water per person. Avoid walking to the summit in the hotter months between September and March. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.
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Warning
This journey requires significant bushwalking experience, specialised equipment and navigation skills.
Please ensure you and your group well prepared and equiped for this journey.

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