Nestled in the heart of Western Australia’s South West region, the Walpole Wilderness Area is a vast and diverse expanse of untouched natural beauty, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking solitude. Covering more than 363,000 hectares of rugged forests, ancient granite peaks, pristine rivers, and scenic coastlines, the Walpole Wilderness is home to an incredible range of biodiversity and ecosystems. From the towering karri and tingle trees to the breathtaking views from the mountain ranges, this wilderness offers countless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to exploring the Walpole Wilderness Area and discovering its hidden gems.

The Heart of the Wilderness: Walpole-Nornalup National Park

The Walpole-Nornalup National Park is one of the most iconic parts of the Walpole Wilderness and is a haven for nature enthusiasts. This park is home to the famous Valley of the Giants and its Tree Top Walk, but beyond that, it offers plenty of untouched wilderness and hidden trails for the adventurous.

Valley of the Giants: Tree Top Walk

The Valley of the Giants is one of the most popular attractions in the region. The Tree Top Walk allows you to walk among the canopy of the giant tingle trees, some of which are more than 400 years old. The Ancient Empire Walk, located at the base of the trees, provides an immersive experience, letting you wander through the forest and witness the colossal size of the trees from ground level.

Tip: Visit the Tree Top Walk early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and the chance to spot native birdlife in the treetops.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Circular Pool

Located within the Walpole-Nornalup National Park, Circular Pool is a serene spot where the Frankland River flows over smooth rocks, creating a swirling pool of tannin-stained water. This peaceful location is ideal for a picnic or a rest after a hike, and the cascading water over the rocks provides a soothing natural soundtrack. In winter and spring, the river swells, creating powerful cascades, while in summer, the calm waters are perfect for relaxing by the banks.

Tip: Bring a picnic and spend some time relaxing by the river, especially in the warmer months when the area is at its most peaceful.

Conspicuous Cliff

For a dramatic coastal view, visit Conspicuous Cliff, a short drive from Walpole. This rugged cliffside offers breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean and the surrounding beaches. A short walk takes you to a lookout, where you can see the cliffs plunging into the sea, and, during the right season, you might spot migrating whales passing by.

Tip: Visit during whale migration season (June to October) for the chance to spot humpback and southern right whales from the lookout.

Mount Frankland National Park: A View from the Top

For those who love hiking and stunning panoramic views, Mount Frankland National Park is a must-visit within the Walpole Wilderness. The park features the impressive Mount Frankland, a granite peak that offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding wilderness, including dense forests, lakes, and distant coastlines.

Image © Nick Rains

Mount Frankland Summit Trail

The Mount Frankland Summit Trail is a moderate, well-marked hike that takes you to the summit of Mount Frankland. The trail starts at the Mount Frankland Visitor Centre, winding through karri forest and up the granite boulders to the top. Once at the summit, you'll be greeted by spectacular views of the karri, jarrah, and tingle forests that stretch as far as the eye can see.

For those interested in the area's history, the fire lookout tower at the summit provides insight into the region’s fire management practices, and the views from the tower are truly awe-inspiring.

Tip: Pack plenty of water and take your time on the ascent, especially in the warmer months. The trail can be steep in places, but the effort is worth it for the incredible views.

Mount Frankland Wilderness Lookout

If you're looking for an easier walk with equally stunning views, the Mount Frankland Wilderness Lookout offers a shorter, wheelchair-accessible trail that leads to a viewing platform with panoramic vistas. It’s a great option for those who want to experience the beauty of the Walpole Wilderness without the strenuous hike.

Tip: Visit the lookout during sunrise or sunset for a magical view of the wilderness bathed in golden light.

Fitzgerald River National Park: Coastal and Botanical Wonderland

While Fitzgerald River National Park is a bit further afield, it is still part of the broader Walpole Wilderness and offers an incredible mix of biodiversity and dramatic coastlines. Known for its unique flora, the park is home to more than 1,800 plant species, some of which are found nowhere else in the world.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Point Ann

One of the park’s most famous locations, Point Ann is a stunning coastal spot where southern right whales often come to calve during the winter months. The beaches here are pristine, and the surrounding heathland is home to a wide variety of wildflowers during spring, making it a wonderful destination for both whale watchers and plant enthusiasts.

Tip: Visit in August or September to see the park in full bloom and increase your chances of spotting whales along the coast.

East Mount Barren

For those interested in hiking, the trail to the summit of East Mount Barren offers one of the best views in Fitzgerald River National Park. The trail is relatively short but steep, and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the coastline, the Ravensthorpe Range, and the vast stretches of wilderness below.

Tip: On your way up, look out for endemic plant species that thrive in this unique environment, such as the royal hakea and qualup bell.

Exploring the Walpole Wilderness by Water: Nornalup Inlet and Frankland River

For those who prefer exploring by water, the Nornalup Inlet and Frankland River offer stunning views of the surrounding wilderness from a different perspective.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Kayaking and Canoeing on the Frankland River

The Frankland River winds its way through the heart of the Walpole Wilderness, offering calm waters ideal for kayaking and canoeing. Paddling along the river provides a peaceful and intimate way to experience the pristine surroundings, with dense forests lining the banks and wildlife such as kingfishers, waterbirds, and frogs making frequent appearances.

Tip: Bring your own kayak or hire one locally and explore the quieter sections of the river for a more secluded experience.

Nornalup Inlet: A Tranquil Escape

The Nornalup Inlet is a sheltered, peaceful body of water that connects to the Southern Ocean via the Walpole River. The inlet is surrounded by pristine forests and is perfect for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. If you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water, the inlet is an ideal destination for soaking in the tranquil beauty of the wilderness.

Tip: For a unique experience, take a guided eco-cruise through the inlet, where you can learn about the area’s ecosystems, history, and wildlife from an experienced guide.

Wilderness Flora and Fauna

The Walpole Wilderness is a biodiversity hotspot, with its forests, wetlands, and coastal areas supporting a variety of wildlife and plant species. The karri, tingle, and jarrah forests provide critical habitats for native animals, including:

• Western ringtail possums and quokkas
• Brush-tailed phascogales
• Carnaby’s black cockatoos
• Red-tailed black cockatoos
• Emus and kangaroos

In the spring, the forest floor and coastal heathlands explode with colourful wildflowers, including banksias, orchids, and hakeas. The diverse plant life supports a wide range of pollinators and adds to the beauty of the region’s natural landscapes.

Tip: Spring (September to November) is the best time to visit if you’re interested in seeing the region’s wildflowers in full bloom.

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Final Thoughts

The Walpole Wilderness Area is a true gem of Western Australia, offering endless opportunities for exploration, adventure, and relaxation. From the towering tingle trees and ancient forests of Walpole-Nornalup National Park to the rugged peaks of Mount Frankland and the serene waters of the Frankland River, this wilderness provides an immersive experience for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking to scenic lookouts, kayaking through quiet rivers, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic in the heart of the forest, the Walpole Wilderness is a destination that will leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated by nature’s beauty.