The Wansbrough Walk is a moderately challenging 5-kilometer (round trip) hike in Porongurup National Park, Western Australia. It's classified as a grade 4 trail, so expect rough surfaces and some steeper sections. Allow approximately 3 hours to complete the walk.
This scenic trail winds through towering Karri forest along a gully between Nancy's Peak and Devil's Slide. You'll encounter a variety of plant life, from the majestic Karri trees in the higher slopes to open Jarrah and Marri forests as you descend. The park is renowned for its diverse flora, with over 700 native plant species, and bursts with colorful wildflowers during spring and early summer.
The trail offers some flexibility. You can choose to complete the entire loop back to the starting point, or for a one-way journey, leave a car at the Millingup Road trailhead at the southern end. This option avoids the return hike. Wansbrough Walk also intersects with the Nancy Peak Walk and Devils Slide Trail, providing opportunities to extend your exploration.
- Be prepared: Carry 2-3 litres of water per person for half-day walks, and 3-4 litres for full-day hikes. Wear sturdy footwear, weatherproof clothing, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses).
- Be aware of conditions: Bushwalking is not recommended during hot and windy conditions due to the increased risk of bushfires. Be cautious of uneven surfaces, slippery rocks, and falling branches (especially karri trees) on windy days.
- Plan ahead: Let someone know your planned route, activity, and estimated return time. Check park alerts for closures.
- Leave No Trace: Bins are not provided. Please take all rubbish with you, including food scraps and properly disposed toilet paper (buried at least 15cm deep). Protect the park's habitat by leaving plants and rocks undisturbed. No pets are allowed.
- Enjoy responsibly: Campfires and open fires are not permitted.
Total distance: 5020 m
Max elevation: 467 m
Min elevation: 310 m
Total climbing: 270 m
Total descent: -270 m
Download file:
Wansbrough-Walk.gpx
Porongurup National Park is located 23 kilometers from Mount Barker in Western Australia's Great Southern region. For reference, Mount Barker is about 360 kilometers (a 4-hour drive) south of Perth. The 12km long Porongurup Range sits conveniently halfway between Albany (48km north) and the Stirling Ranges.
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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.
We acknowledge the Menang people as the traditional custodians of the land for Porongurup National Park.
Porongurup National Park is a 26.21 square kilometer park nestled in Western Australia's Great Southern region. The park's heart lies in the Porongurup Range, the ancient core of a mountain range formed over 1.2 billion years ago. This range is part of the Southwest Biodiversity Hotspot, one of the world's most diverse ecological zones.
The Porongurup Range is a sight to behold. Massive granite domes rise 670 meters, with Devils Slide standing as the highest peak. Castle Rock (558 meters) offers breathtaking panoramic views from the thrilling Granite Skywalk, a steel viewing platform jutting out from the rock face.
Hikers will find plenty to explore in Porongurup National Park. Trails lead to various peaks and traverse the range, offering stunning scenery, diverse flora, and abundant birdlife. The park boasts incredible biodiversity. Over 750 native plant species thrive in this compact area, making it a wildflower haven in spring and early summer. Look for vibrant displays of Bluebells, Wattles, and orchids. The towering Karri trees are another magnificent sight. Animal life includes colorful robins, shy treecreepers, kangaroos, and wallabies. Rock climbers will also find a challenge in the park's ancient granite domes.
Overall, Porongurup National Park offers a unique blend of history, geology, scenic beauty, and diverse flora and fauna. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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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
