The Walpole Wilderness in Western Australia is a hiker’s paradise, offering a range of trails that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes—from towering forests of karri and tingle trees to serene coastal vistas and peaceful riverbanks. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenging trek or a casual walker seeking a leisurely stroll, Walpole has a trail for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best hiking trails in Walpole, categorised by difficulty level.
1. Giant Tingle Tree Walk (Easy)
The Giant Tingle Tree Walk is one of the most accessible and popular trails in the Walpole area, offering an easy yet breathtaking walk through the ancient tingle forest. This short loop trail is just 0.8 kilometres long and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The highlight of the walk is the Giant Tingle Tree, the largest living girthed eucalypt known in the world. The tree’s massive, hollowed-out base is an awe-inspiring sight, offering a unique opportunity to stand inside the trunk of a living giant.
The trail is well-maintained with a compacted gravel surface, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Interpretive signs along the way provide insights into the ecology of the tingle forest and the history of the area.
Highlights:
- The Giant Tingle Tree: A towering tree with a massive girth, one of the largest of its kind.
- Easy, accessible trail suitable for all ages.
- Interpretive signs offering educational information about the forest.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and the chance to see wildlife such as kangaroos and birds.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
2. Knoll Scenic Drive and Walk Trail (Easy to Moderate)
The Knoll Scenic Drive and Walk Trail offers stunning views of the Nornalup Inlet and the surrounding karri and tingle forests. This 2.6-kilometer loop trail starts from the Knoll Scenic Drive, winding through the forest and along the inlet, providing both forested and coastal scenery. The walk is relatively easy, with a few moderate inclines, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
The trail offers several vantage points where you can stop and enjoy the views of the inlet and the forested hills beyond. It’s a peaceful walk with plenty of opportunities to spot native wildlife, including birds, kangaroos, and possibly even dolphins in the inlet.
Highlights:
- Scenic views of Nornalup Inlet and surrounding forests.
- A mix of forest and coastal scenery.
- Opportunities for wildlife spotting, including birds and dolphins.
Tip: Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the lookout points along the trail.
Image © Nick Rains
3. Mount Clare Summit Walk (Moderate)
For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Mount Clare Summit Walk offers a rewarding hike with spectacular views from the summit. The trail is approximately 4 kilometres long, with a steady ascent through dense karri and tingle forests to the top of Mount Clare. The summit provides panoramic views of the Walpole Wilderness and the Southern Ocean, making the climb well worth the effort.
The trail is well-marked and maintained, with some steep sections that may require a moderate level of fitness. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the serene beauty of the forest, with the chance to spot native wildlife such as bandicoots, echidnas, and a variety of bird species.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views from the summit of Mount Clare.
- Dense karri and tingle forests with diverse flora and fauna.
- A moderate hike with some steep sections, suitable for most hikers.
Tip: Hike in the morning for cooler temperatures and clearer views from the summit.
4. The Bibbulmun Track: Walpole to Giants (Moderate to Challenging)
The Bibbulmun Track is one of Australia’s longest and most famous hiking trails, stretching over 1,000 kilometres from Kalamunda to Albany. The section between Walpole and the Giant Tingle Tree is a popular segment that offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through some of the most beautiful parts of the Walpole Wilderness.
This 12-kilometre section of the track takes you through lush forests, past pristine rivers, and eventually to the awe-inspiring Giant Tingle Tree. The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep ascents and descents, making it suitable for more experienced hikers or those looking for a longer day hike.
Hikers will enjoy the diversity of landscapes along the way, from dense karri and tingle forests to open woodlands and riverbanks. The Bibbulmun Track is well-marked, with campsites available for those looking to extend their hike over multiple days.
Highlights:
- A section of the famous Bibbulmun Track with diverse landscapes.
- The Giant Tingle Tree as a rewarding endpoint.
- Moderately challenging terrain suitable for experienced hikers.
Tip: Consider hiking in the spring or autumn when the weather is milder and the wildflowers are in bloom.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
5. Mount Frankland Summit Walk (Challenging)
For those seeking a more strenuous hike, the Mount Frankland Summit Walk offers a challenging climb with some of the best views in the region. The 3-kilometre round-trip trail ascends sharply to the summit of Mount Frankland, where a fire lookout tower provides panoramic views over the Walpole Wilderness, including the vast karri and tingle forests and out to the Southern Ocean.
The trail includes steep sections with steps and rocky terrain, requiring a good level of fitness. However, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment at reaching the summit. This trail is ideal for those who enjoy a physical challenge and stunning natural scenery.
Highlights:
- Strenuous hike with steep sections and rocky terrain.
- Panoramic views from the summit and the fire lookout tower.
- A sense of adventure and accomplishment upon reaching the top.
Tip: Bring plenty of water and a snack to enjoy at the summit while taking in the views. The trail can be slippery after rain, so take extra care if hiking in wet conditions.
6. Circular Pool Walk (Easy to Moderate)
The Circular Pool Walk is a short but scenic trail that leads to one of the most beautiful natural pools in the Walpole area. This 1.2-kilometer loop trail takes you through lush forest and down to the Frankland River, where you’ll find Circular Pool, a serene spot where the river forms a calm, circular pool surrounded by forest.
The trail is relatively easy, with some steps and inclines, making it suitable for most walkers. Circular Pool is a great place to relax, have a picnic, or take photographs, especially during the wildflower season when the surrounding forest is in bloom.
Highlights:
- Beautiful Circular Pool, a serene spot on the Frankland River.
- Easy to moderate trail suitable for most fitness levels.
- Lush forest and river scenery with wildflowers in spring.
Tip: Visit after recent rainfall to see the pool and river at their most vibrant.
Final Thoughts
The Walpole Wilderness offers a diverse range of hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk through ancient forests, a moderate hike with scenic views, or a challenging climb to a mountain summit, Walpole has something to offer every hiker. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and well-maintained trails, Walpole is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors.