Hippo's Yawn is a 1.7km, grade 1 hike located in Hyden, Western Australia. The hike should take around 45 minutes to complete.
Hike overview
This trail starts at the main path to the base of Wave Rock then branches left. It goes through casuarina trees on one side and the rock outcrop that Wave Rock is but a small part of. The trail ends at Hippo's Yawn, a large gaping mouthed shallow cave. It's a flat easy 1030 metre trail that loops back 680 metres to the Car Park.
The end point of this easily followed and marked trail is Hippo's Yawn. The shallow cave is about 13 metres tall at its mouth and looks like the name suggests. Although a worthy attraction in itself, the loop walk is particuarly interesting for wildflower enthusiasts. Take a stroll in late winter or spring and play close attention to ground level. Look carefully and you will spot patches of tiny ground orchids. Some are very haRoad to spot such as greenhoods, unlike the more showy spider orchids. Then go to the visitors centre and see if you can spot your orchid on the chart. It's a lot of fun and challenging for the kids.
Route and GPX file
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Tips
Start Point: Wave Rock Car Park, 3km from Hyden, 334km (3.5 hours) east of Perth
End Point: Wave Rock Car Park, 3km from Hyden, 334km (3.5 hours) east of Perth
Region: Hyden, Golden Outback
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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Gallery
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About the region
Head for Hyden to catch one of Australia's biggest waves - it's nowhere near the ocean, but it is home to world famous Wave Rock. Over 2,700 million years in the making, the wave rises 15 metres over the outback plain, which becomes a sea of colourful wildflower blooms in spring.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
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Gear to consider
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.