Follow the blue markers and catch your first close-up glimpse of the karri forest from this short loop trail. Only three kilometres from Pemberton, this trail starts from the famous Gloucester Tree.
Follow the blue markers and catch your first close-up glimpse of the karri forest from this short loop trail. Only three kilometres from Pemberton, this trail starts from the famous Gloucester Tree. As you stroll along the track, pause to gaze up at the tall trees competing for space in the sky. You can see that a forest is just like any other natural community - only the strong survive. Below them, the thick understorey is a mass of plant life. Look closely to see the vines and creepers scrambling up the trunks of smaller trees, the vivid mosses and fungi clinging to fallen logs and the bark dangling like tattered clothing on the trees. In spring, the wildflowers raise their colourful heads as the butterflies come to life. Take your time - enjoy your first taste of the forest. It's sure to whet your appetite for more bushwalking.
Start Point: Gloucester National Park at the Gloucester Tree. Pemberton is 330km (4 hours) south of Perth.
End Point: Gloucester National Park at the Gloucester Tree
Region: Pemberton, South West
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
Grade 1 (All-abilities) -Â Perfect for Families and Beginners: Grade 1 on the
AWTGS represents the easiest walking tracks, perfect for families with young children or those new to bushwalking. No prior experience is required. These gentle walks feature a flat, even surface with no steps or steep sections. They are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance due to the even terrain. The total distance of a Grade 1 walk is typically no greater than 5 kilometers, making them a comfortable and manageable option for all ages and fitness levels.
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About the region
Centrally in the 'Southern Forests and Valleys" region the quaint timber towns of Pemberton and Northcliffe and the coastal settlement of Windy Harbour are, without a doubt, the green jewels in Australia's South West. With their towering Karri forests, rich agricultural lands and stunning Southern Ocean providing rich experiences and adventure options for every visitor. This Spring expect to see the forests veiled in a cascade of purple, white and yellow wildflowers.
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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.