Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience a tranquil 14.4km hike along the Kalgan River on the Luke Pen Walk. This moderate grade 3 trail, ideal for a day's stroll, showcases a splendid blend of marri trees, vineyards, green pastures and eucalypt bushland, with constantly changing river views. Keep an eye out for Noongar Aboriginal fish trap relics, wildlife, and a unique shelter shaped like a flying kookaburra. Perfect for family outings and picnic lunches, just remember to supervise children closely due to the trail's proximity to the river.

Length:

14.4km

Duration:

4 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: East Bank Road

End: East Bank Road

Elbow Island

Western Australia

Nearby town: Kalgan

From state capital: 416km

Latitude: -34.92109133940113

Longitude: 117.98020362854005

Overview

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6,722 views

Important info

This hike is classified as Grade 3 (Moderate) primarily due to its distance exceeding 10km. The terrain itself is relatively easy and suitable for most abilities. However, the longer distance requires some stamina. Feel free to turn back at any point for a shorter adventure.

Hike overview

A beautiful meandering walk trail, closely following the Kalgan River. The Luke Pen Walk offers a lovely mix of vegetation from large marri trees to farming pastures. Gorgeous views are present all the way along the trail.

This easy, well-formed trail takes approximately four hours to complete and commences at a well marked trail head. After a short distance you arrive at a wonderful shelter shaped like a flying kookaburra. From here, the return walk provides constantly changing views of the river, along with a mixture of vineyaRoads, green pastures with grazing cattle and eucalypt bushland. Keep an eye out for the local Noongar Aboriginal fish trap relics, wildlife including bandicoots and the many species of Birds. Ideally, the time to walk this trail is on a sunny day when the countryside is green from winter and spring rains. During summer there are various places where the trail gently descends to river level so a cooling dip is possible. A great family walk, ideal for strolling (although some sections have a slight incline) and for a picnic lunch. Remember to keep an eye on children as the trail closely follows the river. The trail can also be accessed from Wheeldon Road.

Tips

Start Point: East Bank Road, Lower Kalgan, 16km from Albany, which is 416km (4.5 hours) south of Perth

End Point: East Bank Road, Lower Kalgan, 16km from Albany, which is 416km (4.5 hours) south of Perth

Region: Albany, South West

For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Walk map and GPX file
Luke Pen Walk (14.4km)

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Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Elbow Island.

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About the region

Albany is a city at the southern tip of Western Australia. It's known for its beaches, such as popular Middleton Beach. East of the city, Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve is home to secluded Little Beach. Albany's Historic Whaling Station, a former whale processing plant, now houses a museum. Migrating whales pass off the coast at Torndirrup National Park, where steep cliffs give way to dramatic rock formations.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Halls Creek, Kununurra, Lake Argyle, Warmun, Wyndham

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Elbow Island? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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.

Reviews
Luke Pen Walk (14.4km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

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