East Fitzgerald National Park offers a short but rewarding hike to Sepulcralis Hill Lookout. This moderately easy (Grade 2) trail winds its way through low, dense shrubland for roughly 260 metres before culminating in a scenic lookout at 175 metres above sea level.
The name "Sepulcralis" is a fascinating one, drawing a connection to burial grounds. The weeping gum (Eucalyptus sepulcralis) gracing the path was historically favoured for cemeteries due to its drooping branches.
From the lookout, a breathtaking panorama unfolds. The three sharp peaks of the Whoogarup Range dominate the immediate view, while the three central peaks of the Barrens Range, including Woolbernup Hill, Mid Mount Barren (the park's highest at 510 metres), and Thumb Peak, rise majestically in the distance. Eastward, the rugged outline of East Mount Barren (311 metres) and the Eyre Range, culminating in Annie Peak (457 metres), complete the picture.
The surrounding vegetation itself is a source of wonder. Keep an eye out for bearded heaths, rushes, and a variety of banksia species, adding splashes of colour and texture to the landscape. Notably, the hill itself is named after the graceful weeping gum, a species restricted to the park's eastern quartzite hills. These same hills provide a haven for the stunning crimson-flowered Barrens regelia, another plant thriving in the quartzite environment.
The name "sepulcralis," meaning "of the tomb," might seem a curious choice for this beautiful tree. However, its melancholic appearance was once considered fitting for cemeteries. Despite this historical association, the weeping gum's delicate form adds a distinctive and charming touch to the park's vast, rolling landscapes.
Accessing the Sepulcralis Hill Lookout Walk requires travelling by car to East Fitzgerald National Park, roughly 600 kilometres (a 7-hour drive) south of Perth. Once within the park, follow Hamersley Drive eastward. The car park for the Sepulcralis Hill Lookout Walk is well-marked and lies on the eastern side of Hamersley Drive, approximately 3.7 kilometres north of the intersection with Hamersley Inlet Road.
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Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Fitzgerald River National Park, in Western Australia, is a place of raw beauty, recognised for its rich Indigenous heritage and designated as traditional land for the Goreng, Menang and Wudjari people.
This vast park, encompassing 330,000 hectares of unspoiled wilderness, is a haven for flora and fauna. Renowned for its diverse plant life, Fitzgerald River National Park boasts an incredible 20% of Western Australia’s documented plant species, including 75 unique wildflowers found nowhere else on Earth.
Bushwalking trails weave through rugged landscapes, offering opportunities to discover this extraordinary botanical wonderland. Keen birdwatchers will be thrilled by the park’s over 200 bird species, including rarities like the ground parrot, western whipbird, and western bristlebird.
A tranquil escape, Fitzgerald River National Park caters to a range of interests. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, adventure in beautiful bays and inlets with activities like swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, surfing, or fishing, or a chance to witness the majesty of migrating whales during winter, this park offers something for everyone.
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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.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
