West Mount Barren offers a challenging yet rewarding 1.7-kilometre return hike within Fitzgerald River National Park, Western Australia. This Grade 4 trail demands a reasonable level of fitness and takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.
Known to the Noongar people as Queelup, meaning "place of the rock sheoak," this pale grey quartzite peak marks the western edge of the iconic Barrens Range. The effort of the hike is amply compensated by the panoramic views that unfold as you ascend the ridgeline or reach the summit. Gaze across the park and coastline, taking in Gordon Inlet, Trigelow Beach, Point Ann, and the distant silhouettes of Mid Mount Barren and Thumb Peak in the central Barrens. On a clear day, you might even glimpse the Stirling Range over 100 kilometres to the west.
Beyond the captivating views, West Mount Barren is a haven for botanical enthusiasts. The peak and surrounding plains boast a remarkable diversity of plant life, with 62 species found nowhere else in Fitzgerald River National Park and a further 48 species largely restricted to the park's boundaries. Look out for the vibrant Barrens regelia and the Barrens clawflower, which thrive only on the quartzite ridges and peaks of the Barrens Range. As you approach the trailhead, keep an eye out for the exquisite Quaalup bell and the park's most iconic wildflower, the Royal hakea.
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.
Total distance: 1704 m
Max elevation: 329 m
Min elevation: 175 m
Total climbing: 158 m
Total descent: -158 m
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Accessible by car, the West Mount Barren trailhead is located within the Shire of Jerramungup. If approaching from the Transwa Highway (National Route 1), take the Jerramungup turnoff and follow South Coast Highway east until you see Devils Creek Road branching off to the right. Turn onto Devils Creek Road and continue on this road for a while, following signs for West Mount Barren National Park. Eventually, you'll reach a sealed road called West Mount Barren Lookout Road. Turn left here and follow this road to its conclusion, where you'll find the car park for the West Mount Barren hike.
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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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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.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
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
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
