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Hiking the Stirling Range

A Guide to Stirling Range National Park

The Stirling Range National Park, or traditionally known as Koikyennuruff, is a great hiking destination located 100km north of Albany in the south of Western Australia. Running east-west, the chain of granite, sandstone and quartzite peaks contains the largest elevation points in the entire South West (see the Pilbara for the highest points in WA). A biodiversity playground full of unique plants, animals and birds, we are lucky to have trails that take you to six of the peaks in the area.

Where - Located 100km north of Albany, from the centre of town head along Albany Highway until you reach the big roundabout. Take the Chester Pass Road exit and follow this north until you reach the signs for the park. The park is split in two with Bluff Knoll on the eastern side of Chester Pass Road, Mount Trio off Formby Road South and the remaining four hikes accessible on Stirling Range Drive, a gravel road winding its way through the peaks to the west. If you are coming from Perth then follow the signs off Albany Highway as you approach from the north. 

When - Due to the cooler climate of the South West, the hikes can be completed at any time of year but the Stirling Range has its own weather patterns so care must be taken. The peaks are quite often shrouded in low lying clouds, especially in the morning and the weather can change suddenly. The park is best experienced in spring and early summer when the wildflowers are in bloom but on certain occasions throughout the winter it may be cold enough for snow on Bluff Knoll. If you are planning a visit then be respectful of the conditions, pack a jumper, rain jacket and plenty of water and know your limits. 

Food and Drink - Being a national park, the food and drink options are somewhat limited. The Bluff Knoll Cafe on the corner of Chester Pass Rd and Bluff Knoll Rd is a great place for a coffee, meal or even a sneaky drink from the small bar. For something a bit more upmarket, check out the Porongurups, 50km south of the park where you'll find great wineries, arts and crafts and a distillery. The nearest supermarket is located in the town of Cranbrook, to the west of the park where you will also find fuel.

Accommodation - There are two accommodation options within or close to the park with various levels of comfort. The Stirling Range Retreat is the only accommodation option that offers cabins and rooms (it even has a pool) and they also offer services for caravans and campers. Located opposite Bluff Knoll Road, it is a great base to use if you don't like the idea of camping or want a little bit more luxury than a tent. The Mt Trio Bush Camp is on the northern border of the park and is a large space for caravans and campers with a central area containing showers, a camp kitchen, fire pit, laundry and the Bluff Knoll Ski Club.  

Dieback - A symptom of Phytophthora infection, dieback is a big concern in the Stirling Range. Spread through the transporting of soil, make sure you use the dieback stations provided to clean your shoes or in areas where they are not provided, bring a brush and a spray bottle of diluted methylated spirits. There is no effective treatment for dieback once it spreads to an area so everyone must be vigilant with their hiking equipment. 

Check out the hikes below and start planning your adventure!!!

Best Hikes in the Stirling Range

Bluff Knoll

Length - 6.6km 

Summit - 1,095m 

Time - 2-5 Hours

The most popular hike in the Stirling Range, Bluff Knoll is an icon of Western Australia, as it's the highest peak in the south of the state. Expect stunning views from the summit on a clear day and a leg-burning climb.

Wildflower Hikes in Stirling Range National Park

Mount Hassell

Length - 2.9km 

Summit - 800m 

Time - 1-2 Hours

One of the smaller peaks in the Stirling Range, Mount Hassell is a fun, three tiered climb that provides amazing views of the surrounding peaks, along with an array of wildflowers in winter and spring.

Day Hikes in the Stirling Range

Mount Magog

Length - 6.4km 

Summit - 796m 

Time - 2-3 Hours

 

My favourite hike in the Stirling Range, Mount Magog contains some of the steepest gradients of all the day hikes and in springtime it comes alive with colour and variety.

Walk Trails in Stirling Range National Park

Mount Trio

Length - 3.0km 

Summit - 801m 

Time - 1-2 Hours

 

Mount Trio starts off with some brutal gradients before reaching a gentle saddle section. Enjoy great views from the summit of the surrounding peaks before heading back down.

Wildflower Walks in the Stirling Range

Ongarup Creek Walk

Length - 4.2km  

Time - 1 Hour

 

A casual walk starting near the Bluff Knoll Cafe, wander around the open landscapes and woodlands, enjoying the biodiversity of the Stirling Range, along with great views of Bluff Knoll.

Overnight Hikes in the Stirling Range

Stirling Ridge Walk

Length - 25.0km 

Summit - 1,095m 

Time - 1-3 Days

 

The toughest hike in Western Australia, the Stirling Ridge Walk is an off track adventure that requires good navigation skills and fitness but provides a unforgettable challenge.

Best Hiking Trails in Stirling Range National Park

Talyuberlup Peak

Length - 2.5km 

Summit - 724m 

Time - 1-2 Hours

 

Taking you on a steep climb, the hike up to the summit of Talyuberlup Peak is tough but there is plenty to explore near the top, including a small cave and a rocky ascent to the summit cairn.

Stirling Range Hikes

Toolbrunup Peak

Length - 4.2km 

Summit - 985m 

Time - 2-3 Hours

 

Arguably the hardest day hike in the Stirling Range, Toolbrunup Peak provides a challenging adventure as you scramble up boulder fields towards the summit.

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