Bibbulmun Track

Information

Distance

1003.0 km

Duration

50–70 days

Country

Australia (AU)

Difficulty

Moderate — well-marked trail, no technical climbing; the main challenges are distance and weather

Best Season

April–November (avoid December–March: extreme heat and wildfire risk)

Permits & Fees

No special permit required; camping in official shelters (wamba) is free; some national parks may charge a vehicle fee

Description

The Bibbulmun Track is one of the world's great long-distance walk trails, stretching 1,003 km from Kalamunda on the eastern outskirts of Perth to the historic town of Albany on Western Australia's south coast. Thru-hikers typically complete it in 50–70 days, traversing three distinct ecosystems: northern jarrah forest, towering mid-section karri forest (up to 60 m tall), and flowering coastal heath in the south. The route is serviced by 49 three-sided timber shelters (wambas) with tank water and composting toilets, making tent camping optional. Best season is April–November; wildflower season peaks in September–November, while December–March should be avoided due to extreme heat and bushfire risk.

Trail Highlights

The iconic 1,003 km trail from Kalamunda (a Perth suburb) to Albany on the south coast — through giant jarrah forest, karri towering up to 60 m, coastal heathland, and 49 three-walled timber shelters (wamba) reached by gravity. Spring brings spectacular displays of wildflowers; fauna includes kangaroos, quenda (bandicoots), red-tailed black cockatoos, and the chance to see whales along the south coast.