Search bushwalks Page 9

Environment

Starting from the car park on Harris River Road, Harris River, this walk takes you on a stroll, visiting Harris Dam. It is a little gem of a walk if you want to relax and enjoy the tranquillity in the area. You can walk across the dam and enjoy the open views of the lake before or after you have your lunch at the picnic area. Additionally, the birdlife also makes it a viable walk for enthusiasts. 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.

Highlights

Harris Dam Walk

2.1 km return

20 min to 30 min

Environment

Starting from the car park opposite the Jarrahdale Cemetery on Atkins Street, Jarrahdale, this walk takes you on a short circuit within Serpentine National Park via Stacey's Track. Stacey's Track is one of the underrated walks in the area. The easy 2km loop winds through beautiful jarrah forest and over several bridges that cross Gooralong Brook, with wildflowers and lush green foliage lining the trail. Kangaroos, echidnas and plenty of birdlife can often be spotted along the way. The trail descends towards Gooralong Brook, crossing over the first bridge and heading along the boardwalk that passes the marshy area. After crossing the second bridge, the trail starts to ascend gradually through the forest, returning to the starting point to complete the loop. This is an easy walk along mostly well-formed dirt trails, with some loose gravel, slightly overgrown sections, and a few little hills. The trail is well-signposted, set up to be done in an anti-clockwise direction following the triangular markers, with 10 numbered posts highlighting points of interest or directional changes. This gorgeous walk is best experienced in winter and spring as the brook is not dry, and there are heaps of wildflowers around. 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.

Environment

Stacey's Track Loop

2.1 km circuit

30 min to 1 h

Bus

Starting from the car park at the end of Pinnacles Drive, Nambung National Park, this walk takes you on a circuit through the Pinnacles Desert and past the Pinnacles View Lookout via the Desert View Walk Trail. This is one of the park's most popular trails because of the views and easy access to the Pinnacles Desert. From the main car park area, a concrete path leads to the start of the Desert View Walk Trail. The concrete path ends as it leaves the heathland, providing the first sight of the Pinnacles Desert. The trailhead is well signed, providing a map of the walk and some safety information. Comprised of naturally well-compacted sand, the trail is mostly flat with only a few gentle rises. An interesting aspect of this trail is that there is no set path. Instead, walkers can choose their own course between the marker posts placed at regular intervals and freely explore the otherworldly environment. The best time of the year to go is spring, with blooming wildflowers and cooler weather. Summer is very hot and dry. It is advisable to avoid visiting from December to March. Wear sunscreen, long sleeves and a hat to avoid sunstroke and sunburn, and carry enough drinking water. The trail crosses the vehicle track at various points (which is well marked with rocks), so watch out for cars. Please treat the Pinnacles with respect and never attempt to climb these fragile structures. 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.

Highlights

Desert View Walk Trail

2.2 km circuit

45 min to 1 h

Desert View Walk Trail

Environment

Mount Adelaide Nature Circuit

Mount Adelaide Nature Circuit

2.2 km circuit

40 min to 1 h 15 min

Starting from the car park off Forts Road in Albany Heritage Park, this walk takes you on a circuit, visiting many historic sites and providing information. The area is renowned for its military historical background. It is the last part of the land where Anzac soldiers left for Gallipoli. There is also a unique mixture of natural attractions such as wildflowers and whale sightings between June and November. You can visit the National Anzac Centre and explore Aboriginal and European cultural sites in the area, which also surrounds the summits of Mount Clarence and Mount Adelaide and reaches Middleton Beach and the Port of Albany. There are certain hilly sections through the walk, and the surface can be rough. 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.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from the car park off Hamersley Drive, Fitzgerald River National Park, this walk takes you to the summit of East Mount Barren and back via the East Mount Barren Track. Towering over a landscape of rugged beauty, endless horizons and countless varieties of wildflowers, East Mount Barren is a fantastic little gem. The trail up East Mount Barren is a short but challenging climb through a series of different landscapes and spectacular views. The trail commences on a timber boardwalk that protects the recovering scrub. The gentle boardwalk ends at some point, and you're left with a kilometre-ish walk/scramble on quartzite and sandstone. Try to pause every once in a while to admire the scenery and the ancient rocks you're walking on. With its close proximity to both the coast and several notable mountainous features, there is no shortage of viewpoints to admire as you climb up. The climbing is broken up into stages and each section offers something unique. The first section requires you to clamber up a set of rocks. Then, you'll find a gap that lets you proceed to the second section, which is relatively flatter and more of an open area. The section of the path near the summit looks like a rock wall, however the path leads through clefts in the rock onto the third and final section. The narrow passage leading to the summit requires a tiny bit of scrambling but isn't overly challenging, and the breathtaking views from the summit are well worth the effort. Some parts of the track (especially near the start and the end) are slippery, rugged and steep. Also, keep an eye out for loose rocks. There are many unfenced cliffs here. Prickly shrubs can become annoying as well if not careful. Lastly, keep in mind that the temperature and the weather conditions change as you get higher, so come prepared. 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.

Highlights

East Mount Barren

2.2 km return

1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min

1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min

Environment

Margaret River Heritage Loop

Margaret River Heritage Loop

2.2 km circuit

30 min to 1 h

Starting from Rotary Park on Bussell Highway, Margaret River, this walk takes you on a circuit along the north and south shores of the Margaret River via the River Walk Trail. From Rotary Park, the trail follows the north shore to the bridge and river crossing at Barret Street Weir. Boardwalks to protect the fragile river system lead to a beautiful viewing platform overlooking the river. The trail passes by original settlers buildings and a photogenic moss coated archway before crossing the lovely wooden footbridge over the Margaret River, leading back to Rotary Park. Keep an eye out for the White-breasted Robin, Golden Whistler and other birds along the trail. This is also a great spot for seeing wildflowers in spring. The path along the river provides tranquil moments as the waters flow gently, and the river is home to a couple of viewing platforms on either side. The trail is a combination of compacted earth and coarse gravel, with a flat surface and little elevation change. The path is suitable for bicycles, prams, and possibly also for wheelchair users with assistance. With a great mix of forest, river and bridges, this walk will keep you interested for the entirety of the journey and is the perfect way to connect with nature in Margaret River. 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.

Highlights

Environment

Bus

Mount Frankland Summit and Caldyanup Trails

Mount Frankland Summit and Caldyanup Trails

2.2 km circuit

1 h to 2 h

Starting from the car park at the end of Mount Frankland Road, this walk takes you on a circuit past the Wilderness View Lookout, then up to the summit of Mount Frankland and down around the mountain via the Summit and Caldyanup Trails. Combining three short trails in Mount Frankland National Park, this walk follows an elevated metal walkway to the Wilderness View Lookout, then leads to the top of Mount Frankland via the bitumen Summit Trail before circling around the mountain via the Caldyanup Trail. Featuring exceptional views of the Walpole Wilderness as well as Mount Frankland itself, this short scenic walk immerses you in one of the best granite and karri areas in Australia's South West. The walk to the Wilderness View Lookout is only a few hundred meters from the car park, featuring a stainless steel walkway that follows the contour of a granite hill dominated by karri forest and a mossy rock face. It's a relatively short trip to the edge of the hill, where a viewing platform extends out above the trees, providing magnificent views of the forest below and the peaks far on the horizon. The Summit Trail starts with a gentle incline, following a bitumen path with plenty of little benches along its route. On either side of the path, the karri-dominated forest is lush and beautiful, with the track rising fairly quickly. The bitumen path eventually ends, leading to a series of concrete steps and metal ladders. The final ascent has some of the best views of the whole trail, and once you reach the summit you will encounter the Towerman's Lookout and be rewarded with spectacular 360° views of the surrounding landscape. Branching off from close to where the Summit Trail first reaches the granite dome on the way up, the Caldyanup Trail starts by skirting along the granite slope of Mount Frankland, following a stainless steel walkway that soon gives way to a natural surface with mostly rocky terrain. The trail continues to follow the dome as it descends, giving walkers a sense of this monolith's sheer size from multiple vantage points. It eventually loops back to join the Summit Trail at the picnic area, from where walkers can return via the same route to the car park. Mount Frankland has good facilities for a fairly remote park, including a large arrival shelter with maps and information about the geology and the walks in the area, as well as a picnic area that's equipped with gas barbecues and has picnic tables. The walk is largely well signed, with maps and interpretive panels mainly along the Summit Trail. Wheelchair access is available to the picnic area, toilet and Wilderness View Lookout. The ascent to the summit includes many steep concrete steps and a short ladder climb, requiring a reasonable level of fitness. The trail around the granite dome is challenging, with uneven surfaces and occasional natural obstacles. Walkers should consider the weather conditions before proceeding on this walk, as the granite surfaces can be slippery when wet. 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.

Highlights

Environment

Gerliwany-gerring Banan Track

Gerliwany-gerring Banan Track

2.3 km return

30 min to 1 h

Starting from the car park at the end of Hidden Valley Road, Kununurra, this return walk takes you on a stroll through a savanna woodland in Mirima National Park. This colourful walk is completed with beautiful displays of rock formations and colours scattered throughout the woodland. The area also hosts a number of wild animals such as rock wallabies and wallaroos. Interpretive signs along the way inform visitors about the Aboriginal History of Miriuwung People and the park. Additionally, the journey can be completed as a one-way walk. Let us begin by acknowledging the Miriuwung people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

Starting from Bunbury Wildlife Car park, South Bunbury, this walk takes you on a circuit around the Big Swamp Wetland. In addition to its relatively close location to the city centre that makes this walk accessible, the area hosts over 60 species of birds. It is a conservation wetland, and the peaceful, blessed setting will help you get away from the crowd in mere minutes. The boardwalks to the centre of the lake make the walk less challenging as well. Cyclists are also welcome along with wheelchair users. Dogs are allowed on the outer path but not the boardwalks. 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.

Highlights

Big Swamp Circuit

2.3 km circuit

30 min to 1 h 30 min

Pets

Environment

Starting from Woody Island Visitors Centre, this walk takes you on a circuit on Woody Island. The walk offers visitors stunning views of the mainland and other islands in the Recherche Archipelago. The interpretive signage throughout the walk allows visitors to get an insight into the island's nature as well. It is also possible to spot wildlife, such as birds and lizards. There are certain sections with short steep hills and a gentle climb to the summit. 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.

Highlights

Island Top Circuit Walk

2.3 km circuit

45 min to 1 h 15 min

Island Top Circuit Walk

Birdwatching

Environment

Ferry

Special

Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge) Walk

Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge) Walk

2.4 km return

45 min to 1 h

Starting from the dirt car park at the end of Silent Grove Road, Wunaamin Conservation Park, this return walk takes you to Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge). It is a must for those travelling the Gibbs as it offers a number of attractions, such as a beautiful pool at the upper area for a dip and spectacular open views of the gorge. The sheltered rocky walls create a feeling of sublimity, and it is a relaxing place where you can observe what ancient erosive forces have formed the area to be. Additionally, you can spot wildlife, such as reptiles and kangaroos. There is no drinking water in the area, and it can get extremely hot, so bring it excessively. The path is relatively flat, but there can be rocky and uneven sections with small rock hoppings. 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.

Highlights

Environment

Meeka Lookout from Great Northern Highway

Meeka Lookout from Great Northern Highway

2.4 km circuit

40 min to 1 h

Starting from the Meekatharra Information area on Great Northern Highway, Meekatharra, this walk takes you to Meeka Lookout and back. This walk is a universally accessible one that allows visitors to see panoramic views of the town and the area beyond. It is possible to see see the harshness of this pastoral mining area and also get informed about the local Aboriginal culture from the interpretive signage. 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.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from the car park at the end of Yardie Creek Road, Cape Range National Park, this walk takes you along the creek's edge, then up along the northern side of the gorge via the Yardie Nature Walk and Yardie Gorge Trail. The first section (Yardie Nature Walk) meanders along Yardie Creek, part of it being wheelchair-friendly. Several vantage points give excellent views of the gorge, the creek mouth and Ningaloo Reef. There is seating located along the trail for visitors to rest and enjoy the contrasting colours of the surrounding landscape. The Yardie Nature Walk ends as the gorge walls start to rise. The Yardie Gorge Trail is initially an easy walk but becomes more difficult as you ascend the range. Following a series of white marker poles, the trail passes multiple vantage points looking down into the creek. The trail crosses a series of smaller side gorges, requiring some mild scrambling to traverse. The Yardie Gorge Trail ends just as the creek bends, with a sign marking the end of the walk. Returning back along the gorge, walkers can see the course of Yardie Creek as it heads towards the ocean filled with water. This is a moderately challenging walk, with a mix of gentle walking along the creek's edge and occasionally steep ascents and descents in and out of the side gorges. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and carry plenty of drinking water. This walk is best done on cooler days and preferably early in the morning. Avoid doing this walk on very hot days. 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.

Highlights

Yardie Gorge Trail

2.4 km return

45 min to 1 h 30 min

Environment

Starting from the car park at the end of Frenchman Peak Road, Cape Le Grand, this walk leads to the summit of Frenchman Peak and back via the Frenchman Peak Trail. In the southwest corner of Cape Le Grand National Park, massive rocky outcrops of granite and gneiss form an impressive chain of peaks including Mount Le Grand (345m), Frenchman Peak (262m) and Mississippi Hill (180m). From the car park, the trail skirts around Frenchman Peak through the surrounding heathlands, at one point crossing a wooden bridge over an ephemeral creek. After passing a boardwalk section, the trail continues over granite terrain, initially following low outcrops of only gentle steepness. The route is guided by a series of markers bolted into the terrain. Passing through a small pocket of heathlands, the steepness of the trail increases dramatically. However, natural indentations in the rock create an informal series of steps that make it slightly easier to walk up. Just below the summit is an interesting cave. The said cave is remarkably large and features a massive cairn within it, and the coastline views are framed perfectly by the cave roof. After passing the cave, the final stretch up to the summit is a moderate ascent with some easy scrambling. From the summit, walkers are rewarded with spectacular 360° views of the park, the entire coastline from Rossiter Bay to Le Grand Beach, and the islands in the Recherche Archipelago. The return journey follows the same route as it does heading up. Trekking poles may help with balance on the way back down the granite peak. The trail consists of gravel paths, granite and boardwalks. This walk is not recommended in wet or windy weather as the rock can become extremely slippery. Warm clothes are recommended if it's a cold day because the summit can be quite windy, especially during the winter months. The achievable challenge of climbing up the granite slope, the massive cave and the spectacular panoramic views of the Cape to Grand coastline make this an excellent short mountain walk in Cape Le Grand National Park. 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.

Highlights

Frenchman Peak

2.4 km return

1 h to 2 h

Caves

Environment