Gabbi Karniny Bidi is on Rottnest Island, an A- Class reserve, situated just 18 kilometres off of the coast of Western Australia. The highlights of this section of trail are the beautiful inland lake systems, an abundance of seasonal migratory Bird life, fantastic access to areas that have been restricted in the past, unique fringing lake side vegetation and of course the likelihood of an encounter with our resident Island marsupial, the Quokka!
Gabbi Karniny Bidi is part of the greater Rottnest Island 'Wadjemup Bidi'. The trail is a major new recreation and conservation initiative that will be implemented in sections over a six year timeframe, which started in July 2013. It involves the construction of a 45 kilometre network of trails that will provide an exploratory narrative of the Island's environment, connecting you with the beautiful natural features, abundance of wildlife and rich cultural history that the island has to offer. There will be five primary walks linking facets of the islands diversity. The alignment of the trail was designed to allow walkers to hop on and off of the Islands bus services between sections. The second section of the Wadjemup Bidi, Gabbi Karniny Bidi, starts from The Settlement and heads west out Digby Drive. Elevated panoramic views can be experienced within 500m of the settlement from Vlamingh look out; which is accessed next to the European cemetery. The walk then continues past Lake Herschel and meanders through the lake systems. You will come across a "walk on water" Boardwalk which allows you to pass along the southern edge of Lake Vincent. Following Pink Lake Road the walk heads for Little Parakeet Bay and continues along the coastline all the way up to Bathurst Lighthouse. By this time you will be ready to stroll along Thomson Bay for a well-deserved refreshment back in the Settlement. Gabbi Karniny Bidi can be experienced at different times of the day within different seasons of the year.
Start Point: Rottnest Island Visitors Centre, Rottnest Island, 18km from Western Australia Mainland.
End Point: Rottnest Island Visitors Centre, Rottnest Island, 18km from Western Australia Mainland.
Region: Rottnest Island, Perth
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Rottnest Island.
Closest towns to this walk: Claremont, Coogee, Cottesloe, Fremantle, Mosman Park, North Coogee, Perth, Rockingham, Scarborough
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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.
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