The Loop Trail, Mt Augustus NP

Mount Augustus is an ‘inselberg’, meaning ‘island mountain’, that rises 715m above the surrounding alluvial plain. Arid shrubland of wattles, cassias and eremophilas, covers the inselberg with spinifex found near the summit. Take the 45km, two-wheel-drive unsealed road around its base to explore seven visitor sites and take in ever-changing vistas. You will encounter rocky creeks, gorges, open plains, Aboriginal rock engravings (petroglyphs) and a variety of wildlife. 

Choose from the many walks on offer from a saunter through shady groves of gnarly white-barked river red gums. In cooler months, fit and appropriately equipped experienced bushwalkers take on the challenging climb to the summit to soak up the views.  On the boundary of the park, Cattle Pool (at Goolinee) has permanent water and is home to a variety of water birds. Further west, Emu Hill Lookout provides the perfect location to photograph the mount at its most picturesque, on sunset.

The Loop Drive and all access roads are generally suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles. Drive to the road conditions and obey road closures and speed limits.