Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 1222m
Min elevation: 744m
Total Ascent: 705m
Hike overview
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 views 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 views. Witness the vastness of the Hamersley Ranges stretching out before you, a scene that captures the rugged beauty of Karijini National Park.
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1222 m
Min elevation: 744 m
Total climbing: 705 m
Total descent: -705 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Karijini National Park.
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.
Closest towns to this walk: Marble Bar, Newman, Nullagine, Onslow, Pannawonica, Paraburdoo, Port Hedland, South Hedland, Tom Price
About the region
Karijini National Park is one of those places that leaves you in awe, where the landscape seems to whisper stories of ancient times. Described by many as breathtaking and rugged, it’s often hailed as the crown jewel of Western Australia. Stretching across the Pilbara region, Karijini is home to the Banyjima, Innawonga, and Kurrama people, who have been the Traditional Owners of this land for thousands of years. With rock formations that date back over 2.5 billion years, the park offers a stunning blend of natural history, adventure, and beauty.
Before you begin your journey, it’s a good idea to stop by the Karijini Visitor Centre, where the friendly locals can point you in the direction of the best spots to explore. Once you’ve gathered your information, it’s time to dive into the park’s striking landscapes. Wander through the ancient gorges, where the layers of red rock tell stories of erosion and time. The freshwater falls and secluded swimming holes, surrounded by lush ferns, are a sight to behold, and you’ll quickly understand why this place captures so many hearts.
For the full experience, it’s worth staying a couple of nights. Camping under the wide open sky will allow you to take in the full wonder of the park, with the stars coming alive as the sun sets. If you prefer a more comfortable stay, the Karijini Eco Retreat offers glamping options and guided adventure tours. The park’s beauty shifts with the seasons, and after the rains, the landscape comes alive with vibrant yellow cassias and wattles, as well as northern bluebells and purple mulla-mullas, creating a spectacular contrast against the rust-red rock.
As you explore, keep an eye out for the various wildlife that call this place home. Large termite mounds dot the grasslands, and you might spot birds, rock wallabies, echidnas, red kangaroos, goannas, and even snakes. The park is an ideal place for those who enjoy both adventure and nature, with plenty of opportunities to cool off in sparkling rock pools after scrambling over rocks and climbing through gorges.
To reach Karijini National Park, you can travel from Tom Price, Roebourne, Port Hedland, or Newman, but be mindful of the distances in the area. Fuel stations are over 80 kilometres away from Dales Campground at Munjina Roadhouse or Tom Price, and the Karijini Eco Retreat is about 70 kilometres from Tom Price. If you're planning to explore different parts of the park, a trip from Dales to Weano Gorge and back is approximately 112 kilometres. It’s important to plan your visit carefully as the southern half of the park is inaccessible and distances can add up quickly when touring the area.
From June to September, Karijini bursts into colour, with wildflowers in bloom, making it an ideal time for hiking. Whether you're navigating the walking trails or simply taking in the views from one of the lookout points, like Oxer Lookout, you'll be mesmerised by the vastness and beauty of the landscape. As the day winds down, the night sky offers another spectacle, with shooting stars and meteor showers lighting up the heavens. This ancient land, with its stunning gorges, rock pools, and waterfalls, is a truly enchanting place to visit. Before heading out, be sure to check for any alerts, incidents, or road closures to ensure a smooth adventure.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Karijini National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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.
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
Suggest an edit
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.
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.
8 Reviews 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.