A round trip hike of 10km, being 5km to
the summit. The
views back to the coast and over the ocean are spectacular, the length is perfect for a hiker looking for something a bit longer and the climb while not too challenging, has its moments.
Whilst this is not a
well promoted hike, the National Parks signboard is very informative and gives good explanation of the native flora and its uniqueness.
Stats: Vertical climb 452m.
Distance to summit 5km
Total hike distance: 10km
Time: 2-4hrs
The trail includes a few sets of stairs
There is an initial flat section after the river of 2.5kms through the jarrah forest before the uphill summit begins. After popping out of the jarrah forest you will be in open
granite slopes with malee scrub and heathland as you hike up the south side of the peak where you will encounter excellent vistas of the Southern Ocean and along the coast. The trail on this section is
well marked with a combination of metal triangles and modern yellow & white plastic bollards bolted to the
granite. You will find yourself zigzagging up the
granite and into the scrub with relative ease for a summit ascent. Once the
granite slopes come to an end you pop out of a section of scrub and will see a steep section of
granite marked with more of the plastic bollards. You will continue along the
granite boulders all the way until you reach
the summit. Once you reach
the summit, a loop trail provides 360 degree
views of the Walpole Wilderness, the coast and surrounding farmland.
Be very wary if it has been raining as these
granite boulders can be very slippery.
In spring, keep a look out for the many species of orchids, plus the myriad of mosses, lichens and other tiny plants that have adapted to growing in such a harsh environment.