Hike at a Glance
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Safety advice
This hike is classified as Grade 4 (Hard) due to its significant distance exceeding 20km. While the terrain itself is relatively easy and may be suitable for all abilities, the long distance requires a good level of fitness and preparation. Feel free to turn back at any point for a shorter adventure.
Hike overview
The 22 kilometre, Old Timberline Trail, located near Nannup, south of Perth, Western Australia, is a two day walk or one day cycle with an overnight hut on the bend of St John Brook. This scenic trail ranges from windy walk trail to old timber roads.
Originally a road and rail line used to remove logs from the jarrah forest, today the trail is utilised by walkers and mountain bike riders. Unlike other rail trails it is hilly in sections and becomes narrow in many places, proving challenging, but very scenic. The trail features interpretation on the old timberline heritage, beautiful flora and fauna and spectacular views to the bends in St John Brook from Sleeper Hewer's Camp. Beginning at either end, the trail runs from the rail bridge (over the Blackwood River) in Nannup to Cambray Siding - the intersection of the Sidings Rail Trail (combine these two trails for a 37 kilometre ride). The Old Timberline Trail follows St John Brook Creek and passes many beautiful locations. Sleeper Hewers Camp, sleeping a maximum of 8 people, is situated near one of these settings. Other car access points to the trail are from Barrabup Pool and Workman's Pool (where there are swimming holes, toilets and Picnic Areas) and Cambray Siding (the road into Cambray is narrow and may not be passable by 2WD vehicles after wet weather). Workman's Pool also has facilities for car camping. A second rail trail, the Sidings Rail Trail, also begins at Nannup and follows the route of a former government railway. The two trails can be combined to form a 37km loop. The Department of Environment and Conservation's "Sidings Rail Trail" brochure includes details and a map of both trails and is available to purchase for around $5 from the Department
Tips
Start Point: Nannup Foreshore Park, 282km (3 hours) south of Perth
End Point: Nannup Foreshore Park, 282km (3 hours) south of Perth
Region: Nannup, South West
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
Gallery
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Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Walk map and GPX file
It looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one to share, please email it to me! I’ll verify it against official maps before adding it to help other hikers have a safer, easier experience. Thanks for contributing to a better hiking resource.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Cambray State Forest.
Closest towns to this walk: Boyup Brook, Burekup, Collie, Dardanup, Wellington Mill
About the region
Situated on the banks of the Blackwood River and nestled in the Blackwood River Valley, Nannup has been perfectly preserved as a historic and character-filled timber town from the early 1900s. As a result, it was chosen as a film location in the 1970s-inspired surf movie Drift. Bullnose verandas, weatherboard shop fronts and colourful flower boxes all enhance the delightful appeal of the town and keep it in character, surrounded by trees it exudes peace and calm. A walk along Nannup's main street will take you past tearooms and gift stores full of local wares.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Cambray State Forest? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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.
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.
6 Reviews on “Old Timberline & Sidings Rail Trails Hike (37km)”
It’s great as a 1 day bike ride too