Peak Charles Trail, Peak Charles NP, nr Esperance

Overview

Towering 500 metres above the surrounding plain, Peak Charles is visible for more than 50 kilometres in all directions. The two kilometre climb to the lookout takes around an hour and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views.

Peak Charles National Park

Peak Charles National Park

Photo Credit: Kevin Smith Parks and Wildlife

View trail map

About the Trail

Peak Charles differs markedly from other rock outcrops in the region in size, height and steepness.  The trail to the summit consists of three sections.  The sections you choose to do will depend on your level of fitness, how well equipped you are and weather conditions.

MUSHROOM ROCK

Moderate incline, rough surfaces, very slippery when wet.

Height: 295 metres Total distance from here: 600 metres return (allow 45 minutes)

The start of the trail is well defined and has no markers. It takes you through open woodland across mildly undulating terrain with loose rocks to exposed rock at the base of Peak Charles.  From this point the trail is marked by white-tipped poles.  Some high stepping onto rocks is required.  This section of the trail ends at Mushroom Rock, one of many intriguing rock formations on the slopes of Peak Charles.

CENTRAL RIDGE

Steep incline, rough, unstable surfaces. Very slippery when wet. Strong winds.

Height: 460 metres Total distance from here 2.2km return (allow 2 hours)

PEAK CHARLES SUMMIT

Exceeds walktrail classification as this section requires frequent rock scrambling.

Very steep, exposed incline. Rough surfaces. Very slippery when wet. Strong winds.

Height: 651 metres

Total distance from here: 3.4km return (allow 3 hours)

This section of the trail is very steep and requires foot and hand placement in crevices to pull yourself up in places.  You must be able to lift your own weight several times.  There are no markers and you mst be able to find and assess appropriate hand and foot holds.  On the descent you have to crab crawl on your hands and feet with your back to the rock.  If you are short you may need to be pulled up in a few places on the ascent by another person and you will have to slide down some short sections of steep on the descent.  The summit is largely bare and marked by a tall rock cairn.

Need to Know

  • Time

    2 - 3 hours

  • Distance

    There are three walk options which vary from 600 metres return to 3.4km return Length is 2km (Loop).

  • Trail Start (Loop)

    Peak Charles National Park is 507km (5 hours) east of Perth and 174km (2 hours) NW of Esperance.

  • Degree of Difficulty

    Difficult - High 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.

    Beyond the lookout there is no easy way up the final rock slopes to the summit and no route is recommended. All routes require some exposed rock scrambling and steady footing on steeply angled slopes.

  • What to Pack?

    For most of the year there is no fresh water, so if you intend to visit, make sure you are totally self-sufficient. Keep to formed paths or bare rock to protect fragile plant communities. Take all rubbish, including food scraps out with you.

    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 except in wet or windy conditions.

  • Facilities

    The campground has no facilities - so you'll need to be self-sufficient and take your own water and cooking equipment. Interpretive panels at the campground give more information about Peak Charles.

    • Camping
    • Car Park
    • Interpretive Centre
    • Lookouts
    • Public Toilet

  • Fees

    National Park fees

  • Hazards & Warnings

    Trail has a natural surface of granite and rock so caution is advised. If wet or windy do not attempt steep rocky bare sections of the trail. Take extreme care near steep slopes. Stay away from cliff edges.

  • Prohibited Items

    No pets in National Parks

  • Access to the Trail

    The road accessing the park is gravel and a four-wheel drive is recommended.

  • Trail Contact

    Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Parks and Wildlife Service
    Telephone: 08 9083 2100
    Web: http://exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/exploreparkswa
    Twitter: @exploreparkswa