The route to Mokare's Rock is steep in places but the view to leafy karri crowns and across the Shannon Basin is magnificent. A Boardwalk across Mokare's Rock protects the fragile carpet of mosses, lichens and flowers growing on the granite.
This walk starts at Shannon Day Use Area in the Shannon National Park. Detour left across the river from the Shannon Dam trail and climb alongside the karri crowns. A you walk, try to identify the different tree species before pausing to catch your breath at Smeather's Rock. From here, high above the ground among the leafy karri crowns, you can get a Bird's eye view of the forest and back across the river to the old Shannon townsite. The chattering Birds urge you to continue your climb. As you go higher, the trees thin out and the drought tolerant jarrah tree becomes more prevalent as the ground becomes rocky. Turn a corner in the trail and there is Mokare's Rock, complete with a colourful carpet of flowers, mosses and lichens, from a Boardwalk, you can get a close look at the delicate foliage without damaging it. Pause for a moment to enjoy the view across the Shannon River Basin, before slowly winding your way down through shady glens of karri oaks and across trickling creeks to the Shannon Dam. Time for a swim?. You can arrange to be met here, or you can link up with the Shannon Dam trail to wander back along the river to the recreation site.
Start Point: Shannon Day Use Area in Shannon National Park, 348km (4 hours) south of Perth
End Point: Shannon Day Use Area in Shannon National Park, 348km (4 hours) south of Perth
Region: Shannon National Park, South West
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Shannon National Park.
Closest towns to this walk: Balingup, Manjimup, Nannup, Northcliffe, Pemberton, Walpole
Similar walks nearby
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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
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