For the avid hiker a trip to Bluff Knoll – Stirling Range National Park is a must do. Even if you are not keen to hike the trail, the views from the car park and lookout are spectacular and not to be missed.

The area is equipped with picnic tables and chairs and toilets are wheelchair accessible for those wanting to enjoy the surrounds of this pristine area without hiking to the summit.

For those wanting to tackle the summit then a whole other world awaits at the top with 360degree views of breath-taking scenery. The first section of the trail is sealed and easy-going then turns toward the mountain and the ascent begins. For a while, it follows a creek directly up the slope before crossing the mountainside with a more gentle climb to a saddle. Here you can look over the ridge to the south coast. The trail then turns and follows a ridge to the summit.

Eucalypt woodland, banksia and grass trees blanket the lower slopes while exposed outcrops reveal historic rock layers – evidence of fine sediments that settled on the bottom of an ancient shallow sea long ago.

As with any hiking expedition it is critical to let someone know where you are headed, what time you expect to be back. Full safety information can be found here. A personal safety beacon is also suggested as the terrain is rugged and changes in weather can happen quickly. Carrying a psb means you are secure in the knowledge that should something happen, emergency services will be able to locate you in a much faster timeframe.

Enjoy your trip and stay safe.

Thanks to Explore Parks WA for the information in this post.