Trail summary
Hike overview
The 1.5km return Handrail Pool trail in Weano Gorge starts as a fairly easy walk but becomes quite challenging with climbing involved to get down into Handrail Pool including steep cliffs and narrow walking passages. Be prepared to get wet and see Australia's beauty at its best.
Handrail Pool is one of the many spectacular gorges unique in Karijini National Park. It is not easily accessible, but you will be rewaRoaded with an almost surreal adventure when finding yourself immersed in a water hole surrounded by a blend of yellow and red stones. It is a challenging walk that is described as a 'journey to the centre of the earth'. On the surface, there are easy walks around the top of the gorge, accessible from the Weano Gorge day use area. For the adventurous, Weano Gorge offers a challenging Class 5 scramble over boulders and through narrow passages to Handrail Pool. For the less adventurous, there is an easier option, as the first part of the trail is Class 3. The track starts off as the 'Lower Weano Gorge Trail' (class 3), which originates from the Weano Car Park/information shelter, leading you north towards the top of Weano Gorge and then down the steps to the bottom. Here, high walls of rock will tower above you and this is where the 'Handrail Pool Trail' (class 5) starts. Use the handrail to climb down. As the gorge narrows the trail becomes much more challenging. Take care as you climb your way down into the waters of Handrail Pool.
Tips
Start Point: To reach the Start of the 'Handrail Pool' trail, follow the 'Lower Weano Trail', north of information shelter at Car Park
End Point: To reach the End of the 'Handrail Pool' trail, follow the 'Lower Weano Trail', north of information shelter at Car Park
Region: Weano Gorge, North West
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Photo gallery
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A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track grade
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.
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Let someone know
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.
Gear to consider
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.
Explore safe
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
Weather
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.