There are so many incredible hiking trails in Western Australia.
While we may be inclined to book a holiday interstate, there’s really no reason to leave Western Australia when we have so many amazing and unique locations in our vast state. With the option of a warmer climate north or cooler climate down south, you’re spoilt for choice with year-round travel options.
One way to experience Western Australia is by challenging yourself to complete one of the many hiking trails in our more remote locations off the beaten track. With shorter trails perfect for families and adventures just starting out, to more advanced tracks (some as long as 1,000km), there’s no reason not to holiday here this year.
Here are nine amazing hiking trails in Western Australia that you won't want to miss:
Tom Price, a mining town 16 hours north of Perth, is home to the picturesque, 1,128-metre high Mount Nameless (Jarndunmunha). The hike, which starts just 4 km from the town centre, takes you through the Rio Tinto mining site, with plenty of great views along the way.
The track is relatively challenging and takes about 3 hours to complete, but it's also camping and family-friendly! If you're interested in Western Australia's many peaks, this hike is one of the best ways to get up close.
Photo Credit: Rod Annear, Parks and Wildlife
The Bigurda Trail, located in Kalbarri National Park, is located 6.5 hours north of Perth. This trail is well worth the drive for travellers who want to explore Western Australia's incredible, vibrant Coral Coast.
There's plenty to do in Kalbarri National Park, but the 8-km Bigurda Trail is a favourite for families, cyclists, and anyone hoping for a peaceful trek. Don't worry, there are still some small ascents here and there to burn off some calories!
The Salmon Beach Wind Farm Heritage Trail is a 1.5km hike along the coast in Esperance on the southwest coast of Australia. It takes about 45 minutes to complete one way, taking you through Australia's first commercial wind farm.
This relatively easy walk is a great way to relax and take in some beautiful views. There are six different sites, but for a more elevated view, there's a lookout tower at site two.
Be sure to have your camera with you!
One of Western Australia's best hiking trails is called the Bibbulmun Track: Peace Bay to Denmark. The Bibbulmun Track passes through Walpole, a 5-hour drive from Perth at the far south of the coast.
The track is not for the inexperienced hiker or camper as it takes about 4 days to complete. There are designated spots where you can stop to cook, rest, and reflect on the day's journey, filled with gorgeous ocean views, plants, and flowers.
This amazing adventure is suitable for groups of friends who are experienced, prepared, and ready to take on a new challenge.
Photo Credit: The Uncool Cycling Club
The Turquoise Way Trail isn't completely off the beaten path, but it's so lovely that it simply can't be left off this list.
The trail, which is located in Jurien Bay just 2.5 hours north of Perth, takes you along the coast for about 14.2 km. With plenty of shops and attractions along the way for you to enjoy, it's easy to fill an afternoon on the Turquoise Way Trail.
This short walk is perfect for families, dogs, and those in wheelchairs who still want to view the beauty of the coast up close.
Photo Credit: The Long Way’s Better
The Margaret River region is a 3-hour drive south from Perth. Tourists travel to Margaret River for its wineries, caves, and beautiful hiking trails (sometimes all in one trip).
If you want to access the best lookout points to see the coast, there's no better trail in the area than the Bunker Bay Loop. This 3.6-km loop starts at the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and only takes about 1.5 hours to complete.
That said, you may find yourself stopping quite a bit to take in the gorgeous view or to observe the unique vegetation to the area.
While you're in the region, there are also some amazing Margaret River mountain biking trails if you're planning an adventure on two wheels.
Photo Credit: Trails WA
If you're looking to hike in Margaret River but want something more intense than a 1.5-hour loop, the Cape to Cape Track may be right for you.
This massive 135-km trail takes 5-8 days to complete, taking you through the coastline, Margaret River beaches, cliffs, the karri forest, and more. This hike can be broken up into smaller walks if you'd rather not commit a week to it, but in either case, bushwalking experience is recommended.
The Cape to Cape Track is perfect for adventurous hikers who want to take in Western Australia's diverse beauty. It starts from the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse like the Bunker Bay Loop.
The Loop Walk and Z Bend River Trail are two of Kalbarri National Park's great walking trails!
These tracks take you to the park's spectacular gorge. During your walk, you'll have opportunities to look out on the river, have a picnic, observe the wildlife, and much more. Though this isn't one of Western Australia's multi-day excursions, it's still suggested that hikers have a fair amount of experience.
Remember to bring lots of water and snacks for this great adventure!
Photo Credit: Good Times Tours
The Great Ocean Pathway is a 7km one-way trail located in Esperance. The hike takes about two hours to finish one way and is a favourite among cyclists and runners in the area.
The trail takes hikers to the gorgeous Twilight Beach in Esperance, but there are multiple exits along the way if people are looking for a shorter journey. That being said, Twilight Beach's bright, blue sea and white sands are well worth the trip!
There you have it! These nine hiking trails are all accessible by car from Perth, from Walpole up the coast to Tom Price.
Make sure that you choose the trail that best accommodates the experience level of you and your group. Stock up on camping essentials such as water, snacks, and camera batteries, and get ready to make some amazing memories.
