Handrail Pool, Weano Gorge, Karijini NP Handrail Pool, Weano Gorge, Karijini NP
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Learn moreAbout Handrail Pool, Weano Gorge, Karijini NP
Handrail Pool is one of the many spectacular gorges unique in Karijini National Park. It is not easily accessible, but you will be rewarded with an almost surreal adventure when finding yourself immersed in a water hole surrounded by a blend of yellow and red stones. It is a challenging walk that is described as a ‘journey to the centre of the earth’.
On the surface, there are easy walks around the top of the gorge, accessible from the Weano Gorge day use area. For the adventurous, Weano Gorge offers a challenging Class 5 scramble over boulders and through narrow passages to Handrail Pool. For the less adventurous, there is an easier option, as the first part of the trail is Class 3.
The track starts off as the 'Lower Weano Gorge Trail' (class 3), which originates from the Weano carpark/information shelter, leading you north towards the top of Weano Gorge and then down the steps to the bottom. Here, high walls of rock will tower above you and this is where the 'Handrail Pool Trail' (class 5) starts. Use the handrail to climb down. As the gorge narrows the trail becomes much more challenging. Take care as you climb your way down into the waters of Handrail Pool.
Visitor Information Centres
National Parks
Other Links
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Karijini National Park
Handy Visitor Guide on the Maps and Brochures Tab
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Australia’s North West
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Be trail ready for Handrail Pool, Weano Gorge, Karijini NP
Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
Time / Duration
2 hours return
Length
1.5km return
What To Pack
Group B - Hiking & Long Distance Trails (Bushwalks and/or longer trails) required.
What To Pack
Group B - Hiking & Long Distance Trails (Bushwalks and/or longer trails)
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Insect repellent
- Plenty of drinking water (as a minimum carry and drink 1 litre of water per hour of walking, per person).
- PLB or satellite phone
- Clothing to suit the activity, environment and weather conditions.
- Map/ Compass, do not rely on your phone in remote locations.
- Snacks/ Meals to keep your energy levels up on longer walks
- Extra food and water in case of unexpected delays
- Rubbish bag to remove all your rubbish
- Reference material such as wildflower wildlife guides.
- Whistle (for emergencies, six short blasts per minute)
- Small trowel for toilet emergencies, and a few sheets of toilet paper in a small waterproof bag.
- Personal first aid kit (check that items are clean, properly sealed, have not exceeded expiry dates and that used items have been replaced).
- Torch/ Headlamp
- Binoculars and camera (optional)
Additional Useful Items
Be prepared to get your feet wet. However, be mindful that the water in gorge pools can be extremely cold, especially between April and September; hypothermia can occur. Do not dive or jump into water.Trail Start
To reach the Start of the 'Handrail Pool' trail, follow the 'Lower Weano Trail', north of information shelter at carpark
Trail End
Bush Walk
Class 5
Extreme trail with very rough surface, and may have very steep hills, arduous rock hopping or rock scrambling. Limited or no directional signage. For very experienced bushwalkers with navigation and emergency first aid skills, and high level of fitness.
Visit Trail Tips for further information.
Difficulty Notes
Hazards & Warnings
Important: Flash floods can occur – do not enter gorges if there is rain in the area. If it starts raining when you are in a gorge, leave immediately. Stay back from cliff edges – they are about 100 metres high, often with loose rocks near the edge.Facilities
- Car Park
Best time of year
April to October
Trail Access
Air ( Paraburdoo) and road (>1500km from Perth); Road to trail - parts unsealed - 4WD recommended but 2WD possible depending on conditions. Roads to Gorge may be closed after heavy rain. Check conditions before travelling.
Prohibited Items
Do not proceed beyond Handrail Pool; No dogs allowedComplete Handrail Pool, Weano Gorge, Karijini NP to earn badges and points!
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Earn the Waterfalls , and Gorges badges when you complete this trail.
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