Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the challenging but rewarding Peak Charles trail, situated in stunning Australia, just a short distance from the nearest town. This hard Grade 4, 2km circuit hike offers a unique experience with its steep inclines, intriguing rock formations, and rewarding views from a lofty 500m above the plain. Caution is advised as the terrain can be slippery when wet and strong winds are common. Be prepared for rock scrambling and high stepping onto rocks, and remember, the journey to the top and back is worth every step!

Length:

2km

Duration:

1.25 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Peak Charles National Park

End: Peak Charles National Park

Peak Charles National Park

Western Australia

Nearby town: North Cascade

From state capital: 174km

Latitude: -32.88178321

Longitude: 121.1713242

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Hike overview

Towering 500 metres above the surrounding plain, Peak Charles is visible for more than 50 kilometres in all directions. The two kilometre climb to the lookout takes around an hour and you'll be rewarded with sweeping views.

Peak Charles differs markedly from other rock outcrops in the region in size, height and steepness. The trail to the summit consists of three sections. The sections you choose to do will depend on your level of fitness, how well equipped you are and weather conditions. Moderate incline, rough surfaces, very slippery when wet. Height: 295 metres Total distance from here: 600 metres return (allow 45 minutes) The start of the trail is well defined and has no markers. It takes you through open woodland across mildly undulating terrain with loose rocks to exposed rock at the base of Peak Charles. From this point the trail is marked by white-tipped poles. Some high stepping onto rocks is required. This section of the trail ends at Mushroom Rock, one of many intriguing rock formations on the slopes of Peak Charles. Steep incline, rough, unstable surfaces. Very slippery when wet. Strong winds. Height: 460 metres Total distance from here 2.2km return (allow 2 hours) Exceeds walktrail classification as this section requires frequent rock scrambling. Very steep, exposed incline. Rough surfaces. Very slippery when wet. Strong winds. Height: 651 metres Total distance from here: 3.4km return (allow 3 hours) This section of the trail is very steep and requires foot and hand placement in crevices to pull yourself up in places. You must be able to lift your own weight several times. There are no markers and you mst be able to find and assess appropriate hand and foot holds. On the descent you have to crab crawl on your hands and feet with your back to the rock. If you are short you may need to be pulled up in a few places on the ascent by another person and you will have to slide down some short sections of steep on the descent. The summit is largely bare and marked by a tall rock cairn.

Tips

Start Point: Peak Charles National Park is 507km (5 hours) east of Perth and 174km (2 hours) NW of Esperance.

End Point: Peak Charles National Park is 507km (5 hours) east of Perth and 174km (2 hours) NW of Esperance.

Region: Peak Charles National Park, Golden Outback

For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.

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Walk map and GPX file
Peak Charles Trail Walk (2km)

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Peak Charles National Park.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Esperance, Hyden, Norseman, Ongerup, Ravensthorpe

About the region

Peak Charles, an ancient granite peak and its companion, Peak Eleanora, give sweeping views over the dry sandplain heaths and salt lake systems of the surrounding countryside. Towering 500m above the surrounding plain, Peak Charles is visible for more than 50km in all directions. The park lies within the Great Western Woodlands, an internationally significant area of great biological richness. At its base there is a pleasant campground.

The granite peaks have weathered to orange and brown hues. There are many unusual rock formations, and numerous species of orchids grow on the slopes. About 40 million years ago, both peaks were islands and wave-cut platforms can be seen on their upper slopes.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Peak Charles National Park? 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

Reviews
Peak Charles Trail Walk (2km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Peak Charles Trail Walk (2km)