Off The Beaten Track WA
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Learn moreAbout Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole
Located in the Mount Frankland National Park near Walpole, this short but steep walk takes you to the peak of Mount Frankland for fantastic views of the karri forest, the Frankland River below and on a clear day, the southern coastline. While at the top, look for the plaque that has the original Aboriginal name of Mount Frankland, Caldyanup, as well as directions pointing to other landmarks.
The trail starts next to the car park, at the base of Mount Frankland. Start on the bitumen track and climb to the top of the dome. The climb to the top includes over 300 steep concrete steps and requires a short ladder climb so a reasonable level of fitness is required. Walkers should also consider the weather conditions before proceeding on this walk.
On descent, take the trail to Soho Lookout and continue on the Caldyanup Trail which loops around the base of the rock (1.6km return-moderately difficult) to immerse yourself in one of the best granite and karri areas in the south west.
There is a picnic site near the car park, toilets and shelter where you can enjoy a break before or at the end of your walk.
Visitor Information Centres
National Parks
Other Links
- Explore Parks WA - Mount Frankland Viewing Platform
-
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Be trail ready for Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole
Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
Time / Duration
Up to 3 hours if you take time to rest and take in the views at the top.
Length
1.2km 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
No drinking water is available at this site.Trail Start
Car park, Mount Frankland National Park. 30 minutes from Walpole which is 400km (4 hours) south of Perth.
Trail End
Bush Walk
Class 4
Difficult trail with rough surface that may have very steep hills or extensive rock hopping. Directional signage may be limited. Bushwalking experience, navigation and emergency first aid skills, and good fitness required.
Visit Trail Tips for further information.
Difficulty Notes
The climb to the top includes over 300 steep concrete steps and requires a short ladder climb so a reasonable level of fitness is required.
Hazards & Warnings
Consider weather conditions before walking the Summit Trail. There are 300 steep steps and a ladder to climb so please consider your fitness level. The summit is a natural granite surface and can be slippery when wet.Facilities
Wheelchair access, with assistance, is only available to the picnic area, toilet and Wilderness View Lookout (Grade 1).- BBQ Facilities
- Bicycle Rack
- Car Park
- Lookouts
- All accessible parking
- Picnic Area
- Public Toilet
- Shaded Area
- Sheltered Area
Best time of year
All year but consider weather conditions at the time.
Fees
No fees apply
Trail Access
Road or train and bus to Walpole. Road to trail. The last section is unsealed but accessible to 2WD vehicles.
Prohibited Items
No pets allowed
Trail information updated
7th October 2024
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4 trail goers have rated Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole as 4.25 out of 5!
We love to hear from people who've been on our Western Australian trails, so it would be most appreciated it if you wanted to leave a review.
Add your review of Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole
Nathalie Pronk rated Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole a 5 out of 5
It's worth walking for the view. I first took the kids out when they were 5 and 3. With a little support, they can walk the whole way themselves and it is safe at the top. A couple of times we've been lucky when the watchtower was in use and the kids got a peak inside. The walk around Mount Frankland is beautiful too. no boardwalks and a bit of climbing. Again, great with kids as it is a little bit of scampering about for them. I find they hate the boardwalks as there is no challenge and their view is often limited because of their height
Jeremy Price rated Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole a 4 out of 5
Beautiful walk through the trees and rock formations. Last accent is steep and will get the heart pumping but not very long. Family with young girls did it no trouble. Wonderful views.
Drew Graham rated Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole a 4 out of 5
The trail description is spot on; lots of steps, a couple of ladders and amazing views. There is also a loop trail that follows the base of the massive granite domed peak which is worth walking.
Marco Zecca rated Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole a 4 out of 5
The walk is short but steep in the last section with steps.
Nice view from the top, the tower is still operative in the summer months.
Nice view from the top, the tower is still operative in the summer months.
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Trails are free and bring so many benefits to our community by providing opportunities to have fun, get fit, socialise, explore and challenge yourself. But they also have to be managed and maintained which only is made possible through terrific sponsors, donations and/or volunteering.
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View just before the top
Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole
Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole
Mt Frankland Summit Firetower
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View from the top
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Stairs along the trail
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Climbing up!
Almost there
Up the stairs, Mt Frankland Summit Trail
Sunrise, Mt Frankland Summit Trail
Lookout at sunrise, Mt Frankland Summit Trail
On the trail, Mt Frankland Summit Trail
At the lookout, Mt Frankland Summit Trail
On the trail, Mt Frankland Summit Trail
On the trail, Mt Frankland Summit Trail
Mt Frankland Summit
Mt Frankland SummitView 16 Photos of Mount Frankland Summit Trail, Walpole
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