Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the stunning coastal scenery of Cape Le Grand National Park on the 20km Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail in Western Australia. This grade 4 hike offers an immersive experience through white-sand beaches, turquoise bays, and rugged granite headlands, with the potential to spot kangaroos and dolphins. The journey can be completed in about 7 hours, though camping at Lucky Bay for a multi-day trek is highly recommended to fully appreciate the beauty of the trail. Make sure to prepare for the varying terrain - from serene beaches to challenging climbs - and remember, it's not a race, it's a chance to reconnect with nature.

Length:

20km

Duration:

7 hrs

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 135m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 663m

Start: Rossiter Bay

End: Le Grand Beach

Cape Le Grand National Park

Western Australia

Nearby town: Esperance

From state capital: 781km

Latitude: -33.97096047837293

Longitude: 122.26746258587454

Overview

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Hike overview

Cape Le Grand National Park boasts some of Western Australia's most stunning coastal scenery. And the best way to experience it all? The famed 20-kilometer Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail. This one-way hike isn't just a walk; it's an immersive journey through a paradise of white-sand beaches, turquoise bays, and rugged granite headlands.

Imagine this: kangaroos lazing on pristine beaches, playful dolphins dancing in the waves, and breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see. The Coastal Trail offers a multi-sensory experience that will leave you breathless. While Margaret River might rival its beauty, Cape Le Grand offers a unique charm.

The trail can be completed in a single day for experienced hikers, but why rush? Consider camping overnight at Lucky Bay, soaking up the tranquility and allowing ample time to truly appreciate the scenery. This isn't a race, it's a chance to reconnect with nature.

Exploring the trail sections

The Coastal Trail is a spectacular 20-kilometer journey divided into several distinct sections, each offering its own unique character:

Rossiter Bay to Lucky Bay: The trail begins at Rossiter Bay, a long stretch of pristine white sand. Hike over a ridge and be rewarded with panoramic views of Lucky Bay, its bright sand squeaking underfoot.

Lucky Bay to Thistle Cove: This section is considered the easiest, offering spectacular views in every direction, including the Recherche Archipelago. Take a break and soak it all in at the campsite nestled within Lucky Bay.

Thistle Cove to Hellfire Bay: The terrain changes to granite here, becoming slippery when wet. But the challenge is worth it, leading to the secluded beauty of Little Hellfire Bay, an invitation for a refreshing swim.

Hellfire Bay to Le Grand Beach: This section is the most demanding, with steep climbs and descents. However, the reward awaits: Le Grand Beach and another campsite.

While the entire trail can be completed in a single day (approximately 7 hours), a multi-day trek is highly recommended. The trail offers access points at various locations (Lucky Bay, Thistle Cove, Hellfire Bay) allowing you to break it down into shorter sections. The Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail is more than just a hike; it's an unforgettable adventure. Embrace the diverse landscapes, encounter unique wildlife, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Walk map and GPX file

Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail (20km)

Total distance: 20153 m
Max elevation: 135 m
Min elevation: 0 m
Total climbing: 663 m
Total descent: -651 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Cape Le Grand National Park.

The starting point is Rossiter Beach, about a 30-minute drive southeast of Esperance.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Balladonia, Condingup, Esperance, Gibson, Salmon Gums, Salmon Gums Balladonia

About the region

Cape Le Grand National Park, a jewel near Esperance, Western Australia, stuns visitors with its diverse landscapes and idyllic beauty. This park, recently voted 8th place in Tripadvisor's 2022 Traveller's Choice Awards for Top 10 South Pacific Beaches, showcases the best of Western Australia's natural wonders.

Imagine pristine white sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters, a sight straight out of a postcard. Lucky Bay, famous for its resident colony of sunbathing kangaroos, is just one of the park's many idyllic coves. Here, you can set up camp under a canopy of stars, have a picnic with a breathtaking ocean view, or simply relax on the warm sand.

The park's beauty extends beyond the coastline. Rugged granite outcrops rise dramatically from the landscape, contrasting with freshwater pools and wildflower meadows teeming with color in spring. Hike or bike along the network of trails, traversing the park's diverse terrain and soaking in the panoramic views. For the adventurous, rock climbing opportunities await at Frenchman Peak and Mount Le Grand.

Cape Le Grand caters to all interests. Swim, surf, fish, or boat in the crystal-clear waters. Explore the park's wild reaches on the Le Grand Coastal Trail, a network connecting the most spectacular coastal sections. Feeling ambitious? Take the challenging hike to the 262-meter summit of Frenchman Peak and be rewarded with breathtaking views encompassing the park and the Recherche Archipelago islands.

Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, exploration of diverse landscapes, or an adrenaline rush with hiking and rock climbing, Cape Le Grand National Park has something for everyone.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Cape Le Grand National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

Explore safe

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.

Packing checklists

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.

Let someone know

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

Reviews

Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail (20km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance