Why Albany is a Hiking Paradise
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Variety they say is the spice of life and this is particularly pertinent to the greater Albany region. You want mountains, go explore some mountains. Feel like the beach then find your feet gracing endless pristine white floors of perfection. Ancient forests, staring into the wild abyss of the Southern Ocean, urban walks exploring the town's rich history, gentle wildflower filled river walks and so much more awaits you just 450km south of Perth.
This may read like my own personal love letter to this great town but there are so many reasons to consider spending a week or two exploring this piece of hiking paradise nestled on the rugged south coast of Western Australia. With so many different experiences, take a look at the map and choose your own adventure. Besides the occasional day or two over 30 degrees, Albany is perfect all year round provided you don't mind a bit of rain.
Torndirrup National Park - Explore the Wild Coast
Length - 12.5km (Return)
Time - 3-6 hours
Vertical Climb - 570m
One of the most underrated trails in the South West, the Bald Head Walk Trail takes you on a journey to the edge of the wild.
Length - 4.4km (Return)
Time - 1-2 hours
Vertical Climb - 219m
Experience one of the best spots to watch the sunset from Albany with a hike down and then up to the amazing granite dome of Peak Head.
Length - 5km (Loop)
Time - 1-2 hours
Vertical Climb - 164m
One of the 1988 heritage trails, this stunning trail gives you a feeling of isolation despite being a stones throw away from town.
City Walks - History, Hills and Views
Length - 6.1km (One Way)
Time - 1-2 hours
Vertical Climb - 125m
Showcasing the stunning views along the edge of King George Sound, there is plenty of history to explore including a ruined lighthouse.
Length - 2.9km (Loop)
Time - 1 hour
Vertical Climb - Flat
A haven for bird life, this 2.9km loop trail close to Middleton Beach is a fantastic way to experience the great variety of birds that call this place home.
Length - 2.2km (Loop)
Time - 1 hour
Vertical Climb - 37m
Taking in the National Anzac Centre and the historic features around Mount Adelaide, this is a great addition to any visit to the area.
Length - 3.2km (Loop)
Time - 1-2 hours
Vertical Climb - 125m
One of the highest points near the centre of Albany, take an extended walk after visiting the war memorial located at the end of Apex Drive.
Length - 4.3km (Loop)
Time - 1-2 hours
Vertical Climb - 137m
One of the best vantage points to look out over Albany and the harbour, Mount Melville is a really fun place to explore with lots of granite to check out.
The Eastern Shores - Rivers, Wildflowers and Beaches
Length - 11.3km (Return)
Time - 2-4 hours
Vertical Climb - 138m
A wildflower filled delight along the banks of the Kalgan River. This is a very relaxing walk with history, farmland and forest to explore.
Bibbulmun Track - Wind Farms and the Southern Terminus
Length - 1000km (One Way)
Time - 30-60 Days
Albany is home to the Southern Terminus of the world famous Bibbulmun Track. Some popular sections close to town include the Wind Farm and Muttonbird Beach.
Porongurups - Ancient Forests and Timeless Views
Length - 4.4km (Return)
Time - 1-2 hours
Vertical Climb - 269m
Perched up on the granite boulders of Castle Rock is a stainless steel skywalk. Hike up through the forest and finish with epic views.
Length - 6.4km (Loop)
Time - 2-3 hours
Vertical Climb - 447m
Exploring the granite peaks and forests of the western Porongurups, this is a magical place with some amazing scenes.
Length - 7.9km (Loops)
Time - 2-6 hours
Vertical Climb - 112m
Twin Creeks is a community rehabilitation site open to the public that showcases some stunning wildflowers and orchids along with some different types of vegetation once found all over this area.
Stirling Range - Lose Yourself in the Mountains
Hikes - Bluff Knoll, Mount Hassell, Mount Magog, Mt Trio, Talyuberlup Peak, Toolbrunup Peak.
The highest area in the South West, the Stirling Range is a collection of peaks that leave all in awe and provide some excellent hiking.
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