Top Trail:  Bluff Knoll, Stirling Range NP

Overview

Bluff Knoll is located in the Stirling Range National Park, 4.5 hours south of Perth and 1.5 hours from Albany on the south coast.

This 6.8km return,  Grade 4 trail is well signed and takes you to the top of Bluff Knoll, 1098 metres above sea level, via a steep path with numerous step to negotiate.

The views from the summit are spectacular and worth the effort to get there

Bluff Knoll Trail

The beginning of the trail to the summit of Bluff Knoll

Photo Credit: Chelle Fisher

View trail map

About the Trail

Bluff Knoll is the most popular trail in the Stirling Range NP. Starting from the southern end of the Bluff Knoll car park the trail drops down to a creek, before taking you across a mountain saddle with amazing views over the ridge to the south coast. 

From here the trail turns left and follows the ridge all the way to the summit, where you will be rewarded with stunning 360 degree views over the surrounding countryside.

The lower slopes are covered with eucalypt, banksia and grass trees. Over 1000 species of flowering plants thrive within the park including Mountain Bells and the Queen of Sheba Orchid. 

It is often much colder and windier at the summit and conditions can change rapidly, so check the weather forecast and go prepared with a warm jacket. 

Sunrise and sunset hikes are very popular and if you are lucky you may witness the amazing cloud waterfall that is common in these ranges.

Visit the Explore Parks website for details of other walks in the area.

Need to Know

  • Time

    3 - 4 hours

  • Distance

    6.8km return Length is 6.8km.

  • Trail Start

    Bluff Knoll car park, Stirling Range National Park, 100km (1 Hour) north-east of Albany, which is 400km (5 hours) south of Perth

  • Degree of Difficulty

    Moderate - Moderate level of fitness and experience required.
    Bush Walk: Grade 4 - Bushwalking experience recommended. Tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Directional signage may be limited.

    There are lots of steps along this trail

  • What to Pack?

    Group B (Bushwalks and/or longer trails) required.

    • Minimum 2 litres of water per person per day
    • Sturdy shoes
    • Sun hat or bike helmet (compulsory in WA)
    • Sunglasses, sunscreen (30+) and insect repellant
    • Binoculars and camera (optional)
    • Map or guide book where suggested
    • Snacks and/or lunch depending on length of trail
    • Clothes to suit the activity and potential weather conditions including a water/windproof jacket
    • First Aid kit

  • Best Time of the Year

    August to November for wildflowers

  • Facilities

    Information shelters

    • Car Park
    • Parking for Disabled
    • Picnic Area
    • Public Toilet
    • Water Access Points

  • Fees

    Entry fees to Stirling Range National Park

  • Hazards & Warnings

    Weather can change quickly. Always take a warm jumper or jacket with you. The trail surface is a combination of bitumen, gravel and rock, so caution is advised.

  • Prohibited Items

    No pets permitted. Camping is not allowed in the carpark or anywhere on the mountain/trail

  • Access to the Trail

    Road, bus or air to Albany. Road to Stirling Range

  • Trail Contact

    Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Parks and Wildlife Service
    Telephone: 08 9842 4500
    Web: http://exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/exploreparkswa
    Twitter: @@exploreparkswa