Getting High in Nature, Australia’s South West
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Trail Start
Get directionsPerth
Trail End
Get directionsPerth
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To take in the best of the karri forest and the Warren River Valley, follow the trail to the spectacular Warren Lookout, a great photo vantage point. The view from the lookout to the Warren River is superb, and well worth the walk.
The Summit Trail to the top of Mount Frankland takes you to the Towerman’s Lookout where there are remarkable views over the Walpole Wilderness area. While the walk is strenuous the views make it worthwhile – on a clear day you can see Mt Roe in the north, the Porongorup and Stirling Ranges in the east and the Southern Ocean to the south.
Located in the stunning Walpole Wilderness area, this easy 500 metre stroll takes you through old growth karri forest. Keep an open mind and expect your perception of wilderness to be challenged by the fascinating art works.
This 1.6 kilometre return walk to the blowholes provides a wonderful view of the rugged coastline of Torndirrup National Park. Be warned that there are 78 steps and the walk back is all uphill!
The massive ancient granite domes of Porongurup National Park rise 670 metres, giving exhilarating views of the landscape, especially from the Granite Skywalk suspended from Castle Rock.
Trails WA supports the seven principles recommended by Leave No Trace Australia for minimising your impacts when using the trails.
Learn moreAbout Getting High in Nature, Australia’s South West
Below is a suggested itinerary for a four day self-drive ‘Getting high in nature’ adventure. Optional tours with local commercial tour operators licensed with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions are available for those travellers with more time. There’s nothing like viewing the Southern Ocean crashing beneath your feet, spotting bird-life in a tingle forest-canopy 40m in the air, or having 360-degree views across untouched wilderness to make you feel connected to nature.
DAY 1 Drive Perth to Pemberton.
If you’re setting off from Perth, an early-morning start will maximise your trip. An overnight stay at the WA Wilderness Glamping facility in the magnificent Warren National Park means you’ll arrive with nothing to do but relax and enjoy your day. Everything will be set up for you, including your own family or couples tent, bedding and cooking facilities.There are lots of trails in Pemberton, including the Warren Lookout.
Options: Join Pemberton Discovery Tours to experience dense forests, water cascades and the massive Yeagerup Dunes or hop aboard a Donnelly River Cruise and experience the magnificent D’Entrecasteaux National Park from the water.
DAY 2
Visit Mount Frankland Wilderness Lookout, Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, venture through the Swarbrick Art Trail and other attractions in the Walpole Wilderness. Choose from several walks in the area depending on how much time you have and your fitness level - such as the Mount Frankland Summit Trail.
Options: Cruise the waters of the Walpole and Nornalup Inlets with WOW Wilderness Cruises or take an Out of Sight Tours (from Denmark) to West Cape Howe National Park.
DAY 3
Drive towards Albany via William Bay National Park and onto Torndirrup National Park. Visit The Gap and Natural Bridge and enjoy the exciting new facilities. Visit the Granite Skywalk at Castle Rock in Porongurup National Park in the afternoon and return to Albany for the night or stay locally in Mount Barker or Porongurups. Note that to reach the Skywalk (which is actually on Castle Rock) it is a A 4.4 kilometre (two hour) relatively steep return walk. Don't let this put you off though - it's well worth it!
Options: If time permits take a detour to Discovery Bay (near Torndirrup National Park) and enjoy a helicopter ride to Breaksea Island with Skyhook Helicopters. In Albany a visit to the National Anzac Centre is a must.
DAY 4
Set off on a leisurely drive home via Albany Highway.
Option: Stop off at Kojonup and visit The Kodja Place a fascinating visitor centre that tells the story about country life that will delight and move you including Noongar (Aboriginal) creation stories.Plan your adventure
Other Links
- WA Wilderness Glamping
- Pemberton Discovery Tours
- Donnelly River Cruises
- WOW Wilderness
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Australia’s South West
Comprehensive information on the South West region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.
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Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
Time / Duration
multi-day experience
Length
1000km return
What To Pack
Group D (Drive trails) required.
What To Pack
Group D (Drive trails)
- Research your trip well in advance. Good preparation is essential as distances in Western Australia are huge and facilities are limited. Visit the website associated with each drive trail for in-depth travel information.
- Carry maps, spare parts, a first aid kit and plenty of food and water to last your journey
- Visit the ‘Travelling in Outback Western Australia’ website for information regarding travelling in the Outback. Permits may need to be arranged in advance to enter into some areas which are on private property.
Facilities
- Access with assistance for the Disabled
- BBQ Facilities
- Car Park
- Child Activities
- Interactive Centre
- Interpretive Centre
- Lookouts
- Parking for Disabled
- Visitor Information Centre
Best time of year
All year round
Fees
National Parks fees
Trail Access
Road 2WD
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Less than 1 hour
0.8km
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The Gap
The amazing new lookout at The Gap Albany
Mt Frankland Wilderness Lookout
Stunning views
Mt Frankland Wilderness Lookout
Interpretive signage at the lookout
Granite Skywalk
Climb to the skywalk at the Porongorups
Granite Skywalk
The view from above
Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk
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