Explore the Great Southern Region in all of its glory
The Great Southern Region should be on every hiker’s bucket list. This mountain range in Western Australia is home to the Stirling Ranges and Porongurup, with over 1,000 species of rare wildflowers exclusive to the area. The state’s highest peaks are also situated in the Great Southern region, featuring challenging trails and jaw-dropping views that will give you vivid, long lasting, happy memories.
10 hiking trails worth attempting in the Great Southern Region
These top 10 Great Southern hiking trails are highly recommended by the team here at Cornwall House Accomodation; they are all sure to make your trip a memorable one:
1. Bluff Knoll, Stirling Range National Park
First on our list is Bluff Knoll, the third highest peak in Western Australia. It’s a 5 hour drive away from Perth and an hour away from Albany.
This steep trail runs 6km that take 1 to 3 hours to complete. After scaling the mountainside and reaching the summit, you’ll find some rocky outcrops where you can sit and take in the spectacular 360-degree view. The trail is quite challenging so make sure your fitness level is up for it. Don’t forget to bring cold and wet gear as the weather can be unpredictable with sudden rains and icy mist.
2. Bald Head Walk Trail, Torndirrup National Park
The Bald Head Walk Trail offers the most picturesque scenery out of all the trails listed here. It is a 12km trail that could take up to 7 hours to complete. However, once you reach Flinders Peninsula, you will be treated to spectacular views of granite cliffs and blue waters of the Southern Ocean and King George Sound.
Located 20 minutes from Albany and 5 hours from Perth, the Bald Head Walk can be challenging with steep and rocky sections. A good level of fitness is a must to tackle this trail. Bring plenty of food, water, and a reliable outdoor camera to capture the beautiful sights.
3. Nancy’s Peak, Porongurup National Park
Nancy’s Peak is a 5.5km loop that will definitely test your hiking skills. One of the top trails in the Porongurup National Park, Nancy’s Peak will take you through a lush karri forest situated between giant boulders. If you are able to navigate the slippery granite outcrops, the payoff makes the effort worthwhile as you are greeted with beautiful views of the Stirling Ranges and Devil’s Slide at the summit.
While you’re at the park, check out the Granite Skywalk at Castle Rock. This suspended walkway gives you a climber’s perspective of the surrounding views.
4. Point Possession Heritage Trail, Albany
The Point Possession Heritage Trail is a 5 km hike that is rich in scenery. After traversing a narrow trail between Princess Royal Harbour and King George Sound, you will emerge with a magnificent coastal view.
The mysterious trail takes you to the secluded Brambles Beach and Barker Beach. With its powder white sand and bright turquoise water, Barker Beach lets you enjoy this sweet paradise all to yourself.
5. Mt Lindesay Trail, Denmark
The 10km Mount Lindesay Trail is an excellent hiking trail for those with intermediate skills. You’ll start the hike with a gentle climb through the Jarrah Forest and heathland, which offers a rainbow of flowers during spring. As the trail picks up the pace, you’ll begin to explore rocky sections and up sheer granite slopes.
Welcoming you at the summit of Mount Lindesay are orange-tinged granite rocks where you can set up your camera for a panoramic view of the Walpole Wilderness Area, Stirling, and Porongurup Ranges.
6. Bibbulmun Track, Walpole to Peaceful Bay
No list would be complete without the 1000km Bibbulmun Track, which attracts local and foreign trekkers alike.
The beauty of the Bibbulmun Track is that it offers so many options. Most walkers explore the trail on day walks, but there are also spots where you can head to a campsite or try a remote wilderness experience.
The 61km section of Walpole to Peaceful Bay can be completed in 3 to 4 days, taking trekkers through the Valley of the Giants and the spectacular coastline of Denmark. In 2015, the Bibbulmun Track registered a whopping 300,000 user days, with walkers spending $13 million on food and accommodation along the walking trail.
7. Peak Head Track, Torndirrup National Park
Peak Head Track is a 5km loop that follows a sandy trail that winds through native bushland and imposing granite boulders. All that effort will be rewarded with stunning vistas of the Southern Ocean. The return walk takes around 2.5 hours and requires some climbing up granite walls and over granite rocks.
8. Cape to Cape Track, Margaret River
Another bucket list hike in Western Australia is Cape to Cape Track in Margaret River. The trail runs for 123km along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge, passing the lighthouses of Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste.
You have plenty of options once you reach Cape to Cape Track. Beginners can stroll for a few hours along the path to Meekadarabee Falls. For advanced levels, hikers can complete the entire 8 day trek along clifftops and loops through inland karri forests.
9. Piccaninny Creek, Bungle Bungles
Picaninny Creek is a secluded trail that you will love if you’re out there for some alone time. But there’s a reason why tourists avoid it – the trail is rocky and unmarked. The 7km boulder hop is easy to spot, but you’ll still need to navigate around dry river beds. Make sure you bring a compass and lots of water. The best time to visit Picaninny Creek is springtime. If you are hiking between December and April, expect occasional flash floods.
10. Stirling Ridge Walk, Stirling Ranges
To the east of Bluff Knoll is Ellen Peak. This is your gateway to the Stirling Ridge Walk – one of the most popular multi-day hikes in Western Australia.
Stirling Ridge Walk is another out-of-the-way trail. And you know what the price for untouched paradise is – rough tracks, no facilities, and three days of challenging hike. Drop by the Stirling Range Retreat to figure out your itinerary and logistics.
Rest and Recharge for Your Next Trail at Cornwall House
If you are looking for accommodation, Cornwall House Accommodation offers a distinctive country charm for Western Australia visitors. Located in the heart of The Great Southern Region, Cornwall House has well-appointed rooms with reverse cycle air-conditioning, coffee and tea making facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi to ensure a comfortable stay.
Book your stay with us! Call (08)98310214 for enquiries or click here to check room availability. Alternatively, please feel free to email us at stay@cornwallhouseaccommodation.com.au with any further enquiries and we will be more than happy to help.
