Trail summary
Hike overview
Tagon Coastal Trail is a 14 kilometre return moderately difficult walk in Cape Arid National Park. The Tagon Coastal Trail winds through coastal heath and across rocky headlands, providing excellent vantage points for whale watching.
Tagon Coastal Trail starts at the eastern end of Yokinup Bay at the mouth of the Thomas River. Depending on the time of year and if the river is broken through to the ocean, walkers may have to wade through the river to access the start of the walk from the Picnic Area Car Park. A great location to spot a number of different Bird species including Hooded Plovers, Crested Terns and Oyster Catchers. The trail offers spectacular views of the coastline and a great vantage point for watching migatory whales (July- October). The walk takes you up a moderately steep incline over exposed granite around a number of headlands traversing through coastal heath where emus can be spotted. The trail can be sandy with granite outcrops to cross and is unmarked apart from where the vegetation has been trimmed to delineate the path or the occasional wooden marker peg across the granite outcrop. Where the trail follows the beach it is unmarked and walkers should follow the tide line. Walk trail surface consists of natural pavements made up of rock material including exposed granite, gravel and beach sand. Some parts of the track may be eroded after heavy rain.
Tips
Start Point: Western end of Yokinup Bay, Cape Arid National Park 125km (1.5 hours) east of Esperance
End Point: Western end of Yokinup Bay, Cape Arid National Park 125km (1.5 hours) east of Esperance
Region: Cape Arid National Park, Golden Outback
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Photo gallery
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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.
About the region
Cape Arid National Park is a wildly beautiful and biodiverse area. Coastal sandheaths, mallee and low granite hills extend inland to Mount Ragged after which the vegetation is transformed into woodlands dominated by saltbush and bluebush. The jagged Russell Range, which rises to its highest point at Tower Peak (almost 600m), comprises ancient uplifted quartzite that has the same origins as the Barrens Range in Fitzgerald River National Park.
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Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Cape Arid 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 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.
Explore safe
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
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.