The Bigurda Trail is an 8.5km hike nestled within Kalbarri National Park, Western Australia. Classified as a moderate grade 3 hike, it offers stunning coastal views and takes roughly 3.5 hours to complete. The trail starts at Eagle Gorge and traverses south along the coastal cliffs, culminating at the Natural Bridge.
South of Kalbarri township, a majestic coastline unfolds. Here, the relentless Indian Ocean collides with the ancient Australian landmass, carving out steep chasms, rocky inlets, and unusual rock formations. The powerful waves relentlessly sculpt the multicolored layers of sandstone and limestone, creating a dramatic and ever-changing landscape.
A string of lookouts peppers the impressive southern coast, offering breathtaking panoramas. The Bigurda Trail itself follows the cliff tops between Eagle Gorge and Natural Bridge, providing a comfortable 8km one-way journey. Between July and November, you might even be lucky enough to spot migrating whales from these vantage points.
The Bigurda Trail offers flexibility for hikers of all interests. It can be traversed in either direction or completed as a challenging 17km return trip. For shorter walks, there are multiple access points at Island Rock, Grandstand, and Shellhouse entries. This allows visitors to tailor their experience to their fitness level and time constraints.
While the Bigurda Trail boasts an excellent surface for hiking, it's important to be aware of the challenging conditions. The trail is exposed with minimal shade, making it prone to high temperatures. Additionally, caution is necessary due to the presence of high cliffs and drop-offs along the path. Be sure to stay on the marked trail and wear appropriate footwear for safe navigation.
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Total distance: 8551 m
Max elevation: 93 m
Min elevation: 41 m
Total climbing: 323 m
Total descent: -317 m
Getting to the trailhead: Kalbarri National Park.
Kalbarri National Park awaits exploration, boasting the Eagle Gorge Lookout Carpark. This carpark is situated just 6 kilometers south of the Kalbarri townsite, within the park itself. The park is a scenic destination located approximately 590 kilometers north of Perth, translating to a road trip of 6 to 7 hours.
Closest towns to this walk: Ajana, Dongara, Geraldton, Horrocks, Kalbarri, Mullewa, Murchison, Nabawa, Northampton, Shark Bay
Kalbarri National Park pays respect to the Nanda people as the traditional custodians of this land. The park itself encompasses the lower Murchison River, where the river has carved a magnificent 80km gorge through red and white banded sandstone. A breathtaking perspective of this natural wonder can be obtained from the Kalbarri Skywalk, a dual-platform structure jutting out over the gorge. Numerous walking trails descend into the gorge, allowing visitors to experience its colorful splendor firsthand.
The park also boasts an impressive coastline sculpted by wind and wave erosion. Here, towering cliffs plunge 100 meters towards the ocean, offering equally stunning views. Particularly during spring, the wildflowers blanketing the landscape add another layer of vibrant beauty.
The town of Kalbarri, situated at the mouth of the Murchison River, serves as a vibrant hub for both fishing and tourism. This town provides a convenient base for exploring the park's many offerings. Activities range from sightseeing and picnicking to more adventurous pursuits like abseiling, rafting, and canoeing. Don't forget to book tours in advance for these activities to ensure a spot.
With so much to see and do, allow ample time to fully experience Kalbarri National Park. For panoramic views of Murchison Gorge, be sure to venture out onto the Kalbarri Skywalk. It's important to note that summer temperatures can be extreme. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, plan hikes during the cooler months (May to October). When heading out on hikes, prioritise safety: start early in the morning, carry sufficient water (1 liter per hour per person), wear sun protection, comfortable clothing, and sturdy footwear. As there's no potable water available within the park, remember to bring your own supply.
Looking for more walks in or near Kalbarri National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
