Mount Bruce (Punurrunha in the Aboriginal language) stands as Western Australia's second-highest peak at 1,234 meters, dominating Karijini National Park. Hikers of all levels can find something to challenge them here, but the crown jewel is the demanding Mount Bruce Summit trail.
This 11-kilometer loop pushes experienced hikers with a significant climb. Expect a steep ascent with sections requiring rock scrambles, all totaling an elevation gain of 450 meters. The reward for your effort? Breathtaking panoramic views stretching across the majestic Hamersley Ranges.
Planning is key for tackling Mount Bruce. Aim for an early morning departure, especially during hot weather, to avoid the brunt of the sun. This is a Grade 5 hike, so ensure you're in good physical condition and have experience navigating challenging terrain. Shorter and easier options exist for those who want to experience Mount Bruce without summiting. The 500-meter walk to Marandoo View offers scenic vistas of the nearby mine. The Honey Hakea Trail extends further for a 4.6-kilometer round trip, with some light scrambling for more expansive views.
The Mount Bruce Summit trail starts with a gentle climb, but the difficulty increases after passing the Marandoo Mine viewpoint. Be prepared to navigate sections that require scrambling and climbing skills. Despite the challenge, the summit hike rewards adventurers with unforgettable panoramic vistas. Witness the vastness of the Hamersley Ranges stretching out before you, a scene that captures the rugged beauty of Karijini National Park.
Total distance: 10770 m
Max elevation: 1222 m
Min elevation: 744 m
Total climbing: 705 m
Total descent: -705 m
Download file:
Mount-Bruce-Summit.gpx
The trailhead for the Mount Bruce Summit Hike is Mount Bruce Car Park in Karijini National Park, a 2 hour drive from Newman which is 1200km north of Perth. The access road to Mt Bruce is a 3km unsealed road, with a turnoff from Karijini Drive close to the Banjima Drive West entry station. An information bay and toilet is also located at the Mt Bruce carpark.
Much of the southern half of the park is inaccessible. Visitors concentrate on the spectacular gorges in the north, with their rock pools, waterfalls and unique wildlife.
You can enter Karijini National Park from Tom Price, Roebourne, Port Hedland or Newman.
Be aware that distances travelled can add up quickly when touring this park. The nearest fuel is over 80km from Dales Campground at Munjina Roadhouse or Tom Price and around 70km from the Karijini Eco Retreat to Tom Price. A trip from Dales to Weano via the shortest route is about 112km return. Plan your visit carefully.
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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.
Karijini National Park offers spectacular rugged scenery, ancient geological formations, a variety of arid-land ecosystems and a range of recreational experiences. Covering 627,422 hectares just north of the Tropic of Capricorn in the Hamersley Range, Karijini National Park is Western Australia's second largest national park. Massive mountains and escarpments rise out of the flat valleys. The high plateau is dissected by breathtaking gorges, and stony, tree-lined watercourses wind their way over the dusty plain. Erosion has slowly carved this landscape out of rocks that are over 2,500 million years old. There are many beautiful gorges and sites to visit in Karijini National Park, but be sure to include Dales Gorge, Fortescue Falls, Weano Gorge and Oxers Lookout.
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
1 Review on “Mount Bruce Summit Hike (11km)”
The Mount Bruce Summit Hike is an incredible experience that offers a challenging yet rewarding adventure. While it’s a reasonably long hike, the effort is well worth it. The most challenging section comes around halfway through, where the climb gets steeper. But once you reach the top, you’re treated to stunning 360-degree views—truly some of the best in the state. It’s a hike that pushes you, but the breathtaking panoramas make every step worth it.