Top Trail:  Nancy Peak, Porongurup NP

Overview

A great circuit walk, Nancy Peak traverses the main peak of the Porongurup Ranges 23 kilometres from Mount Barker in the Great Southern region.. As well as the beauty of the moss-covered granite rocks and the lush forest, the views are magnificent with the Stirling Ranges visible to the north and, on a clear day, you can see the Southern Ocean.

View trail map

About the Trail

Commencing from the Porongurup car park, the trail passes by the ‘Tree in the Rock’ before climbing to the top of the mountain’s ridge. On the way, the trail passes through different ecosystems such as karri forest and moist glades of mosses.

Emerging from the forest on the granite outcrops you will see the views to the Stirling Ranges and Southern Ocean. Across the outcrops, the trail continues over a few peaks before descending into a pass between Nancy Peak and Devils Slide. Once on the main track between the two, it's a fairly simple karri forest ramble back to the car park.

This is one of many trails in the Porongurup area.  Other trails range from the Bolganup Heritage Trail, which is an easy 600 metre circuit, to a three-hour return hike to Marmabup Rock which is recommended for experienced bushwalkers only.  The Castle Rock trail takes you past the famous balancing rock and up to stand on Castle Rock.

Need to Know

  • Time

    3 - 4 hours

  • Distance

    5.5km loop Length is 5.5km.

  • Trail Start

    Porongorup National Park, 23km from Mt Barker, which is 359km(4 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.

  • What to Pack?

    Be prepared for sudden weather changes. Wear long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt. Maps available from visitor centres.

    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

    All year round

  • Facilities

    • BBQ Facilities
    • Lookouts
    • Picnic Area
    • Public Telephone

  • Fees

    Entry fees to Porongurup National Park

  • Prohibited Items

    Trail has a natural surface of granite and rock so caution is advised

  • Access to the Trail

    Road

  • Trail Contact

    Department of Parks and Wildlife
    Telephone: (08) 9842 4500
    Web: http://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/
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    Twitter: @ExploreParksWA