Quokka
Setonix brachyurus
Animalia: Mammalia
Conservation status: Vulnerable
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Explore the beauty of Salmon Bay and then cross over land to explore the WWII guns and tunnels. Climb to the highest point on the Island, the top of Wadjemup Lighthouse, and then continue on west to world class surf break Strickland Bay!
Part of Wadjemup Bidi - Rottnest Island network
Part of Wadjemup Bidi - Rottnest Island network
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Wardan Nara Bidi begins with a gradual climb up the hillside behind Parker Point. The slight increase in energy exertion is well worth it, as the views from the top are spectacular. There is a strategically placed bench at this spot to allow you to catch your breath and take in the incredible 180° views along the south coast of the Island. Continue on and explore Parker Point and Little Salmon Bay. Both of these bays are protected and prove very popular snorkelling spots. Stroll along Salmon bay, drinking in the sprawling turquoise waters. Then use the trail to cross over land to Oliver Hill!
The military history of Rottnest is marvellous. Experience newly restored World War II guns and dare to venture down in to the tunnels. The trail links Oliver Hill to Wadjemup Lighthouse. The Rottnest Voluntary guides are on duty 365 days a year at both of these sites and for a small fee will take you on a fabulous informative tour. Dive in to the depths of the tunnels at Oliver Hill, and then climb to the top of the Wadjemup Lighthouse, which is the highest point on the Island. The 360° views from the top are worth the 155 step climb! Please note that these buildings can only be entered accompanied by a voluntary guide.
Heading on west, across the Rottnest borefields, you will find yourself at the world class surf break known as 'Strickos', on Strickland Bay. The trail then meanders through the Acacia scrub and pops out on to the craggy limestone shelves along Strickland Bay.
The final delight along this trail is the impressive Mammong sculpture, designed and created by Aboriginal artist Peter Farmer in 2016. The flashes of the flukes in the sunlight are a marvel.
Reaching Narrow Neck you can decide to continue your journey west, or to explore the north coast on the Karlinyah Bidi.
This trail is one of  5 sections which make up the 45 Wadjemup Bidi network and links with both Ngank Yira Bidi  and Gabbi Karniny Bidi.
Comprehensive information on the Perth region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.

Wadjemup / Rottnest Island is a natural sancturay with unique flora and fauna. It's isolation has allowed a diverse variety of plants and wildlife to thrive, many of which are found nowhere else on the mainland. A main attraction is the island’s iconic species – the Quokka, but there are many other animals to see arcross and around the island.
Along the coastal parts you can see Osprey soaring through the sky, migrating Humpback Whales, dolphins and seals, and numerous species of fish. Coastal birds such as Oystercatchers, Silver Gulls and Fairy Terns can be found along the shoreline. In the coastal healthlands King Skinks, Bobtail lizards and dugites are located, and the salt lakes and woodlands attract many birds, Australian Shelducks and Pied Cormorants.
Wadjemup features a resilient, coastal ecosystem dominated by three native woodland trees: the Rottnest Island Pine, the Rottnest Island Tea Tree and the coast wattle. The Rottnest Island Daisy is a native blue/purple wildflower that blooms across the dunes, alongside spinifex and coastal rosemary. The wetlands are populated by salt-tolerant samphire, and the shallow waters and limestone reefs are home to a diverse array of marine plants, including over 300 species seaweeds and 8 prominent seagrass species that sustain the local marine life.
Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.
3-4hrs
10km one way
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.
Ferry - Departing Perth/Fremantle (www.rottnestexpress.com.au or www.sealinkrottnest.com.au) or Hillarys Boat Harbour (www.rottnestfastferries.com.au)
The Wardan Nara Bidi can be walked east to west, or vice versa. Starting at Porpoise Bay bus stop or at Narrow Neck bus stop.
The Wardan Nara Bidi can be walked east to west, or vice versa. Starting at Porpoise Bay bus stop or at Narrow Neck bus stop
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.
Group B - Hiking & Long Distance Trails (Bushwalks and/or longer trails)
- Snorkelling equipment
- Extra water (no water outside settlement presently)
-Binoculars
- Food
- Camera
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.
No pets. No bikes on trail (Bikes are encouraged on the Island, but no bikes on walk trails.) Why not park your bike at Porpoise Bay and walk the Wardan Nara Bidi, returning along the Bickley Bay trail from Oliver Hill and be re-united with your bicycle!
Bike hire is available at Pedal and Flipper in the settlement. There are lots of bike racks situated specifically to allow you to hop off, lock up, and enjoy the walk trail.
Water available ONLY in Thomson Bay - ensure you fill up water bottles before leaving Thomson Bay. The Voluntary Guides sell bottled water at Oliver Hill and Wadjemup Lighthouse (cash only), but it may not be cold on a warm summer day!
Toilets available along the trail at Parker Point, Oliver Hill, Strickland Bay and Narrow Neck.
Bins and recycling points are situated at bus stops; please take all litter with you.
20°C
Feels like 19°C
Max 21°C
Min 12°C
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