Trail Fast Facts
Peak Charles Trail is a 2km, grade 4 hike in Peak Charles National Park, Western Australia. This hike typically takes 1.25 hours to complete.
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 rewaRoaded 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.
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.
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.
Map and GPX file
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Trailhead
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Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
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.
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.
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Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Peak Charles National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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 will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
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.