Gabbi Karniny Bidi, Rottnest Island Gabbi Karniny Bidi, Rottnest Island



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Learn moreAbout Gabbi Karniny Bidi, Rottnest Island
Gabbi Karniny Bidi is part of the greater Rottnest Island ‘Wadjemup Bidi'. The trail is a major new recreation and conservation initiative that will be implemented in sections over a six year timeframe, which started in July 2013. It involves the construction of a ~45 kilometre network of trails that will provide an exploratory narrative of the Island’s environment, connecting you with the beautiful natural features, abundance of wildlife and rich cultural history that the island has to offer. There will be five primary walks linking facets of the islands diversity. The alignment of the trail was designed to allow walkers to hop on and off of the Islands bus services between sections.
The second section of the Wadjemup Bidi, Gabbi Karniny Bidi, starts from The Settlement and heads west out Digby Drive. Elevated panoramic views can be experienced within 500m of the settlement from Vlamingh look out; which is accessed next to the European cemetery. The walk then continues past Lake Herschel and meanders through the lake systems. You will come across a "walk on water" boardwalk which allows you to pass along the southern edge of Lake Vincent. Following Pink Lake Road the walk heads for Little Parakeet Bay and continues along the coastline all the way up to Bathurst Lighthouse. By this time you will be ready to stroll along Thomson Bay for a well-deserved refreshment back in the Settlement.
Gabbi Karniny Bidi can be experienced at different times of the day within different seasons of the year, each offering completely different experiences. On a crisp winter morning the heavy dew will be reflecting the rising sun. Overcast days with intimidating clouds will be pierced by the stunning view of the fresh white of Wadjemup Lighthouse in the distance. On balmy summer evenings expect to be treated to a spectrum of burning sunset colours across the lake and a view of the dipping sun from one of the newly installed bench seats which have been purposefully placed to encapsulate the best views!
Other Links
- Wadjemup Bidi - Rottnest Island
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Be trail ready for Gabbi Karniny Bidi, Rottnest Island
Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
Time / Duration
3 - 4 hours
Length
Gabbi Karniny Bidi is a 9.7km loop. You can also continue on up to Wadjemup Lighthouse by crossing Pink Lake Road and following the 1.5km trail up though the centre of the Island.
Trail Start
Rottnest Island Visitors Centre, Rottnest Island, 18km from Western Australia Mainland.
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.
Additional information
What To Pack
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
+water
+snorkelling equipment
+food
Hazards & Warnings
Be aware there are poisonous snakes on Rottnest Island. The Dugite (Pseudonaja affinis) is a timid creature, but may bite if trod on or harrassed. Seek immediate medical assistance. Be aware of unstable rocky outcrops; always stick to the trail.Facilities
Water available ONLY in Thomson Bay and Geordie Bay - ensure you fill up water bottles before leaving .Toilets available in Thomson Bay, Geordie Bay and The Basin.
Shops are situated in Thomson Bay and Geordie Bay.
Bins and recycling points are situated at most bus stops, please take all litter with you.
- BBQ Facilities
- Cafe
- Camping
- Lockers
- Picnic Area
- Public Toilet
- Shaded Area
- Sheltered Area
- Shop
- All accessible toilet facilities
- View Platform
- Visitor Information Centre
- Water Access Points
Best time of year
All year round
Fees
Visitor Fees are included in ferry travel. If you are travelling by private vessel you can pay online at www.rottnestisland.com or come in to the visitors centre at the Main Jetty on the Island.
Trail Access
Ferry - Departing Perth/Fremantle (www.rottnestexpress.com.au or www.sealinkrottnest.com.au) or Hillarys Boat Harbour (www.rottnestfastferries.com.au)
Prohibited Items
No pets. No bikes on trail (Bikes are encouraged on the Island, but not on the walking trails). No Camping or open fires.

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