A Q&A on Western Australia’s Iconic Hiking Destination
I’m excited to share a recent Q&A published in Outdoor Explorer, where I had the opportunity to discuss one of Western Australia’s most iconic hiking destinations—Stirling Range National Park—with journalist Kaylee Cranley. This park offers a stunning combination of rugged terrain, cultural significance, and diverse ecosystems, making it a must-visit for any experienced outdoor enthusiast.

Read the full article online here.
Here’s a sneak peek into the Q&A conducted by Kaylee Cranley, Outdoor Explorer! Journalist.
Question: What makes Stirling Range National Park a unique and popular destination for hiking?
Stirling Range National Park is one of Western Australia’s most unique hiking destinations, located approximately a 4.5-hour drive from Perth and around 80km north of Albany. It offers a blend of stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural significance. Known as Koi Kyenunu-ruff—which translates to ‘mist rolling around the mountains’ in the local Aboriginal language—the park holds great cultural importance for the Minang and Goreng people. The frequent mist that clings to its towering granite peaks adds a mystical atmosphere, with the dramatic mountains rising over 1,000 meters above the surrounding plains.
As the only major mountain range south of Perth, Stirling Range National Park features spectacular landscapes that attract nature lovers and hikers alike. The park’s most iconic peak, Bluff Knoll, is renowned for its breathtaking 360-degree views, often extending as far as the Southern Ocean on clear days. Hikers are treated to diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to open heathlands, as they explore the park’s varied terrain.
In addition to its stunning landscapes, Stirling Range is also a biodiversity hotspot, recognised internationally as one of the world’s top 35, and is home to over 1,500 species of plants, many of which are endemic to the region. During spring and early summer, the park transforms into a vibrant display of wildflowers, making it especially popular with nature enthusiasts, photographers, and birdwatchers.
Whether it’s the dramatic scenery, diverse birdlife, vibrant wildflower displays, or the park’s deep cultural roots, Stirling Range National Park offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure and connection with nature.
Question: Could you provide some information on Bluff Knoll and why this is also a must-see for the hike?
Bluff Knoll, also known as Bular Mial, is the highest peak in southern Western Australia, standing at 1,099 meters. It holds deep cultural significance for the Minang and Goreng people, making it more than just a hike but a journey steeped in history. This iconic trail is renowned for its awe-inspiring panoramic views, which, on clear days, can extend as far as the Southern Ocean. Often, the summit is veiled in clouds, creating a surreal and unforgettable experience for those who reach the top.
As a Grade 4 hike under the Australian Walking Track Grading System (AWTGS), Bluff Knoll is challenging and best suited for hikers with bushwalking experience. The trail involves rough terrain and steep inclines, requiring a good level of fitness and strong navigation skills, so it’s not recommended for everyone.
In addition to its breathtaking views, Bluff Knoll is home to rare and unique flora that thrive in the higher altitudes, some of which are found nowhere else. The peak is also famous for its dramatic weather changes, with occasional snowfall in winter—an unusual phenomenon in Western Australia. The combination of cultural importance, stunning natural beauty, and the rewarding challenge of the climb makes Bluff Knoll a must-see for experienced hikers visiting Stirling Range National Park.
Question: What range of experience do you need to take on Stirling Range National Park’s trails?
Stirling Range National Park offers hiking options for a wide range of experience levels, but it’s essential to choose trails that align with your fitness and skill level. For beginners and those seeking more leisurely walks, the park offers several short and scenic lookout trails, such as the Central, Eastern, and Western lookouts. These moderate trails provide stunning views and are accessible to hikers of all abilities, making them ideal for casual visitors or those with limited hiking experience.
However, the park’s more demanding trails, including summit hikes like Bluff Knoll and the Stirling Range Ridge Walk (also known as the Stirling Range Traverse), are better suited to experienced bushwalkers. These summit hikes are graded as 4 or 5 under the AWTGS, indicating their challenging nature and the preparation required.
- Grade 4 trails, such as the Bluff Knoll hike, are challenging and feature rough terrain and steep inclines. Bushwalking experience is recommended, as directional signage may be limited, requiring strong navigation skills and a good level of fitness.
- Grade 5 trails, like the Stirling Range Traverse, are the most difficult. These tracks are recommended only for highly experienced and fit hikers with advanced skills, including navigation and emergency first-aid knowledge. They are often unmarked, steep, and extremely rough, requiring excellent preparation and fitness to navigate the difficult terrain and significant elevation changes.
Regardless of the trail chosen, it’s crucial to be well-prepared, as the park’s rugged landscape and rapidly changing weather conditions can make even shorter walks more challenging than expected. Having the right gear, including sturdy boots and weather-appropriate clothing, can significantly enhance your experience. Proper planning, checking the weather forecast, and carrying essential gear—such as navigation tools and sufficient water—are key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the park.
Question: Could you provide some insight into your own experience hiking at Stirling Range National Park, were there any favourite moments or tips?
Hiking in Stirling Range National Park is an unforgettable adventure. A personal highlight for me was reaching the summit of Bluff Knoll at sunrise—the sight of the early morning light illuminating the surrounding peaks is a memory I’ll cherish forever. Another standout moment was completing the Stirling Range Traverse, a multi-day hike that, while difficult, offered spectacular ridge-top views and a deep sense of accomplishment.
For those planning a visit, I would recommend being well-prepared. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy hiking boots, be ready for steep climbs and rocky paths, and always let someone know before you go. It’s also crucial to check the weather forecast, particularly when attempting Bluff Knoll, as conditions can change quickly. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding experience in this remarkable national park.
Question: Is there any other unique or exciting information about Stirling Range National Park?
Stirling Range National Park is not only renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity but also for its geological and cultural significance. More than 1,000 million years ago, a shallow sea covered the area, where minerals, soil, sand, and the bones of tiny sea creatures gradually settled, forming layers of sediment. After the sea receded, these layers were transformed into rock under the immense pressure of their own weight over aeons of geological time. Visitors can still see ripple marks on exposed rock layers on the peaks, remnants of the ancient sea.
Massive tectonic forces caused the Australian continent to grind against other continents, resulting in the buckling and rising of the rocks that form the Stirling Range today. Chester Pass and Red Gum Pass illustrate the ancient river courses that flowed south during the early stages of the range’s formation. The weathering effects of wind, rain, heat, and cold have further sculpted the range into the jagged shapes visible today.
In addition to its natural wonders, Stirling Range holds great cultural importance to the Noongar people, the traditional custodians of the land. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate and respect this cultural heritage while exploring the park. Respecting wildlife and following park guidelines is essential for preserving the park’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Beyond hiking, Stirling Range offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, stargazing, and photography, making it a versatile destination for nature lovers.
Question: Do you have any additional comments you would like to include?
Safety is paramount when hiking in Stirling Range National Park, especially on the more challenging trails such as Bluff Knoll and the Stirling Range Traverse. Always inform someone of your plans, check the weather conditions before setting out, and carry essential safety gear, including a first aid kit, sufficient water, and navigation tools.
Bluff Knoll, in particular, has seen numerous rescues and even fatalities due to its challenging terrain and the potential for sudden weather changes. Those attempting the Stirling Range Traverse should have advanced navigation skills and be prepared for the physically demanding and remote terrain. This multi-day hike is considered one of the most difficult in Western Australia. However, with the right preparation, fitness, and respect for the environment, hiking in Stirling Range National Park can be an immensely rewarding and unforgettable experience.
Please note that dogs and other pets are not permitted in the park to protect its wildlife and environment. Additionally, standard park entry fees apply for visitors.
Plan Your Adventure: More Trails and In-Depth Park Information
To explore more hiking trails in Stirling Range National Park, check out my complete list of hiking trails. For a deeper dive into the park’s stunning landscapes, biodiversity, and cultural significance, visit my feature article on WA’s Peak Adventure: Stirling Range National Park.