Western Australia’s Best Hiking Trails

Western Australia is often described as the ‘land of endless exploration’. 

Home to various natural wonders, sparkling coastlines, striking rock formations and pristine countryside, linked by some of the greatest hiking trails in the world – itching to be uncovered.

All that is left is you.

So, sit back and relax as we run you through some of WA’s best hiking trails. 

Cape to Cape Track

The Cape-to-Cape Track in WA’s Margaret River region is one of Australia’s ultimate coastal walk trails. The 123km marathon features breathtaking coastal views, soaring cliffs, verdant forestry, fascinating rock formations and a wide variety of epic wildlife. The challenging trail begins at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse near Dunsborough in WA’s Southeast where its transverses through the entirety of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park and sections of the Ngari Capes Marine Park. The trail winds through numerous deserted beaches, towering forestry, sheltered woodlands and coastal towns before wrapping up proceedings at the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse in Augusta. Although the track can be broken down into smaller tier day hikes, the overall track will take approximately 5-7 days to complete. With various campsites and accommodation options along the way, you can tackle the track at your own pace, however you see fit. You may even catch a glimpse of the migrating humpback whales as you scour WA’s sparkling coastline.

Bluff Knoll

For those searching for something a little more challenging, then the hike up Bluff Knoll in the Stirling Ranges may be right in your wheelhouse. One of WA’s tougher yet most rewarding climbs, scale the 1095m Bluff Knoll to the summit for panoramic views of the Stirling Ranges, the Porongurups, and the park’s ethereal countryside. Located approximately 400kms southeast of Perth, park up at the Bluff Knoll carpark and begin the popular 6km return hike. Taking 3-4 hours to complete with an average gradient of 20%, the trail is considerably more challenging than it may seem on paper. Most of the hike is straight uphill so take regular breaks to catch your breath and soak up the wondrous scenery. Pack warm clothes and plenty of water, even in the warmer months, Bluff Knoll’s trademark variable weather can be extremely erratic and take a turn for the worse.

Bibbulman Track

The hike of all hikes, separating the men from the mice. No Australian hiking list is complete without first mentioning the illustrious Bibbulman Track. A colossal 1000km hike from the Perth Hills to Albany, this gruelling trail is split into 9 subsections, traversing through 22 national parks, and taking roughly 6–8 weeks to complete. This awe-inspiring hike is the experience of a lifetime and a bucket list item for many avid hikers. On your travels venture along WA’s striking countryside with sparkling beaches, sheltered bays, misty valleys, soaring coastal cliffs, majestic Karri forests and so much more. With 49 cost-free campsites scattered along the track and numerous accommodation options in passing towns, you can tackle the journey at your own pace while soaking up the natural beauty on display across this beautiful state.

Coastal Trail

One of WA’s hidden treasures, near the coastal town of Esperance, is the silky white sands of Cape Le Grand’s Coastal walk trail. A 20km one-way trail along Cape Le Grand’s alluring coastline may be just what the doctor ordered as you become one with mother nature on this truly spellbinding adventure. Stroll from bay to bay along some of WAs most famous beaches including Hellfire Bay, Thistle Cove, and Lucky Bay. Keep your eyes peeled for some furry friends with western grey kangaroos often spotted lounging along the bay’s tranquil shorelines. Spy Cape Le Grand’s idyllic coastline, secluded bays, rugged landscapes, and vibrant heathlands on a journey for the ages across one of WA’s premier locations. A place of peace and tranquillity split the hike in two and stay the night at Lucky Bay’s iconic campsite.

Nature’s Window and the Loop

The mesmerising views at Kalbarri’s Nature’s Window make it one of the most photographed natural attractions across the state. Situated in the heart of the Kalbarri National Park, this fascinating wind-eroded sandstone ‘window’ frames spectacular views of the park’s enchanting river systems and towering gorges. Scale the narrow ledges of the ancient gorges on a challenging 9km hike through the Murchison Valley. The trail follows the edge of the cliff offering stunning views of the Murchison River before weaving down a precipitous slope to the shores of the riverbank. Best hiked in the cooler months, soaring temperatures make it near on impossible to climb during the summer. One of WA’s most impressive national parks, marvel at the erosive power of the Murchison River system as its carved and shaped this incredible environment.