The Castle Rock Walk (and Granite Skywalk) is a challenging 4.5-kilometer (round trip) hike in Porongurup National Park, Western Australia. Rated as grade 5, expect rough terrain, steeper sections, and some rock scrambling. Allow approximately 2 hours to complete the walk.
The trail begins at the Castle Rock picnic area and ascends through a scenic mix of Jarrah, Marri, and Karri forest. Along the way, you'll encounter the fascinating Balancing Rock, a natural wonder defying gravity. The path continues to the base of Castle Rock, where you'll find the lower lookout offering stunning views.
For the truly adventurous, the challenge continues. A steep and demanding section with rock scrambles and a 6-meter ladder leads to the summit and the awe-inspiring Granite Skywalk. This steel walkway spirals around the massive granite dome, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside, including the Porongurup National Park, rolling farmlands, and distant mountain ranges.
The first part of the trail is a manageable climb with well-placed stone steps and flat granite slabs for rest stops. Take a moment to appreciate the views and the precariously balanced boulder before tackling the more strenuous ascent.
The Castle Rock Walk offers a rewarding experience for those seeking a challenge and breathtaking panoramic views.
Image: Castle Rock - Mount Barker Tourism
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
- Be prepared: Carry 2-3 litres of water per person for half-day walks, and 3-4 litres for full-day hikes. Wear sturdy footwear, weatherproof clothing, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses).
- Be aware of conditions: Bushwalking is not recommended during hot and windy conditions due to the increased risk of bushfires. Be cautious of uneven surfaces, slippery rocks, and falling branches (especially karri trees) on windy days.
- Plan ahead: Let someone know your planned route, activity, and estimated return time. Check park alerts for closures.
- Leave No Trace: Bins are not provided. Please take all rubbish with you, including food scraps and properly disposed toilet paper (buried at least 15cm deep). Protect the park's habitat by leaving plants and rocks undisturbed. No pets are allowed.
- Enjoy responsibly: Campfires and open fires are not permitted.
Total distance: 4416 m
Max elevation: 566 m
Min elevation: 285 m
Total climbing: 297 m
Total descent: -298 m
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Porongurup National Park is located 23 kilometers from Mount Barker in Western Australia's Great Southern region. For reference, Mount Barker is about 360 kilometers (a 4-hour drive) south of Perth. The 12km long Porongurup Range sits conveniently halfway between Albany (48km north) and the Stirling Ranges.
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Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
We acknowledge the Menang people as the traditional custodians of the land for Porongurup National Park.
Porongurup National Park is a 26.21 square kilometer park nestled in Western Australia's Great Southern region. The park's heart lies in the Porongurup Range, the ancient core of a mountain range formed over 1.2 billion years ago. This range is part of the Southwest Biodiversity Hotspot, one of the world's most diverse ecological zones.
The Porongurup Range is a sight to behold. Massive granite domes rise 670 meters, with Devils Slide standing as the highest peak. Castle Rock (558 meters) offers breathtaking panoramic views from the thrilling Granite Skywalk, a steel viewing platform jutting out from the rock face.
Hikers will find plenty to explore in Porongurup National Park. Trails lead to various peaks and traverse the range, offering stunning scenery, diverse flora, and abundant birdlife. The park boasts incredible biodiversity. Over 750 native plant species thrive in this compact area, making it a wildflower haven in spring and early summer. Look for vibrant displays of Bluebells, Wattles, and orchids. The towering Karri trees are another magnificent sight. Animal life includes colorful robins, shy treecreepers, kangaroos, and wallabies. Rock climbers will also find a challenge in the park's ancient granite domes.
Overall, Porongurup National Park offers a unique blend of history, geology, scenic beauty, and diverse flora and fauna. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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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.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
