For a great overall impression of the geographical marvel that is the Kennedy Ranges, you can do no better than walk the 5.8 kilometre return Escarpment Base Trail. There is interesting geology as well as sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) to observe between Temple Gorge Campground and Honeycomb Gorge Trail. A lookout area is a feature of the section between Honeycomb Gorge and Sunrise View trails.
Although there are some loose rocky slopes to contend with, this Class 3 trail is suitable for most reasonably fit walkers. Don't let the 5.8km return hike put you off. The trail skirts the base of sheer rock faces along the edge of this spectacular escarpment. Along the way you can take a short diversion into Honeycomb Gorge. The whole trail features huge boulders that tumbled from the escarpment over time. The stunted contorted sandalwood trees add a stark foreground to massive walls rising out of the rocky plain. Leave early in the morning and watch the rising sun light up the cliffs in a sensational red glow. It is also a good time to watch kangaroos that frequent the area. Sunrise view at trails end is an obvious viewing point. This is one of six walk trials in the park - Temple Gorge, Honeycomb Gorge, Drapers Gorge, the Escarpment Trail (leading to the top of the range), the Escarpment Base Trail, and Sunrise View.
Start Point: Sunrise Car Park, Kennedy Ranges, 900km north of Perth
End Point: Sunrise Car Park, Kennedy Ranges, 900km north of Perth
Region: Kennedy Range National Park, Coral Coast
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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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.
Scenic landscapes, wilderness, wildflowers, camping, walk trails, night skies, geology €“ gemstones and marine fossils (to observe only), bird watching and outback photography are some of the attractions at Kennedy Range National Park. Kennedy Range is known as 'Mundatharrda' to the local Inggarda Aboriginal language group. Kennedy Range is a vast elevated north-south oriented sandstone plateau between 12 and 25km wide and about 75km long. The rocks that comprise the range were originally deposited beneath the sea. Over time they were compressed to form sandstone, then faulted, uplifted and tilted towards the west. Subsequent erosion has isolated the plateau 80m above the surrounding plain. The vegetation of the plain is acacia shrubland (mostly mulga), which shades an abundance of seasonal understory of flowering annuals (including everlastings).
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.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
