Cape Range National Park on the beautiful Coral Coast of Western Australia is a treasure trove of natural wonders, with many walking trails where you can discover different landscapes. Situated beside the famous Ningaloo Marine Park this region is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see pristine beaches, deep gorges and the arid landscape of Western Australia. Walking in this region is a must do for anyone visiting the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area to get up close to the geology and biodiversity of the region.
From ancient gorge walks to coastal walks, Cape Range National Park has something for every level of walker. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll along a beach or challenging yourself on rocky terrain, the park’s trails promise an unforgettable experience in one of Western Australia’s most rugged and beautiful landscapes.
Yardie Gorge Trail
Yardie Creek in Cape Range National Park is one of the park’s most popular walks. The Yardie Gorge Trail follows the gorge rim and offers stunning views of the gorge walls and rock ledges that drop into the water below. Black flanked rock wallabies are often seen perched on the rocks. The creek bed below is calm so this is a peaceful walk for those who want to enjoy the scenery without too much exercise. As you walk you’ll see Ningaloo Marine Park in the distance.
- Distance: 2.5 km return
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Gorge walls, black flanked rock wallabies, coastal views, Ningaloo Marine Park.
Mandu Mandu Gorge Walk
Mandu Mandu Gorge is another highlight of Cape Range National Park and is a more challenging walk. The trail follows an ancient river bed and up to the gorge rim, where you’ll have panoramic views of the Coral Coast and Ningaloo Marine Park. The walk gets up close to the deep gorges that are characteristic of this part of Western Australia. Steep and rocky terrain, moderate to high fitness required, but the views of the Exmouth Gulf are spectacular.
- Distance: 3 km loop
- Difficulty: Hard
- Highlights: Gorge walls, deep gorges, Ningaloo Marine Park, Exmouth Gulf.
Badjirrajirra Loop Trail
The Badjirrajirra Loop Trail starts at the Thomas Carter Lookout in Cape Range National Park and offers walkers panoramic views of the park’s arid landscape. This trail is unmodified and crosses spinifex-covered ridges and plateaus. The trail also offers stunning views of the Coral Coast Ningaloo Marine Park and Western Australia’s natural beauty. You’ll see a variety of local flora and fauna, including the Desert Pea. This longer walk requires high energy levels, but the views are worth it.
- Distance: 8 km loop
- Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
- Spinifex
Osprey Bay to Sandy Bay Coastal Walk
If you want to see the Cape Range National Park coastline, then this is the walk for you. This easy coastal walk follows the pristine beaches of the Coral Coast with views of the Exmouth Gulf. Whether you want a short walk or a longer one along the coast, this walk allows you to see Ningaloo Marine Park marine life while walking through scrub and gentle gradients.
- 3-5 km (one way)
- Easy
- Pristine beaches, Ningaloo Marine Park, marine animals, Exmouth Gulf
Lakeside Trail
A popular short and easy walk the Lakeside Trail in Cape Range National Park offers views of Ningaloo Marine Park and takes you through coastal dunes and spinifex plains. This trail ends at Lakeside Beach a great spot to snorkel or relax in the shade. The calm waters and coral gardens at the end of the trail are perfect to see marine life while enjoying the Ningaloo Marine Park ecosystem.
- 2.2 km return
- Easy
- Coastal vegetation, Ningaloo Marine Park, coral gardens, marine animals
Hiking Tips for Cape Range National Park
- Start Early: The WA sun is harsh, so start your walk early in the day when the temperatures are cooler. This is especially true for longer or more challenging walks like Mandu Mandu Gorge or Badjirrajirra Loop Trail.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring at least 1 litre of water per hour of walking. Hiking in an arid landscape like Cape Range National Park can dehydrate you quickly, so be prepared.
- Wear Proper Footwear: With uneven terrain, rocky gorges and scrubland trails you need sturdy hiking boots to support and protect your feet.
- Use Insect Repellent: The coastal scrublands can have insects so insect repellent is a must especially on the Osprey Bay to Sandy Bay walk.
- Respect Wildlife: Cape Range National Park has native wildlife, including rock wallabies, black-flanked rock wallabies and marine animals. Keep a distance and don’t disturb their habitat.
Other attractions near Ningaloo Reef
- Charles Knife Canyon: Just outside Cape Range National Park is Charles Knife Canyon, which is another great walk. The rugged terrain and cliffs offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Shothole Canyon: Another gorge in Cape Range National Park, Shothole Canyon has a scenic drive and short walks through the rugged landscape.
- Whale Shark Encounters: Ningaloo Marine Park is famous for whale sharks, which are visited between March and August. Consider adding a whale shark snorkel Ningaloo Reef Tours to your itinerary after a day of walking.
- Turquoise Bay: After a day of walking, relax on the white sands of Turquoise Bay, one of Western Australia’s most beautiful beaches within Ningaloo Marine Park.
Conclusion
Cape Range National Park is a must see for hikers and nature lovers. From the views of Yardie Creek Gorge to the gorges of Mandu Mandu the park has some of the most beautiful trails in Western Australia’s Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area. Whether you want a short coastal walk or a long trek through ancient gorges Cape Range National Park has it all.
FAQ
When to hike?
When to hike? April to October is the best time to hike in Cape Range National Park as the summer in Western Australia can be brutal. These months also coincide with whale shark season in Ningaloo Marine Park.
Are the trails suitable for families?
Yes, there are several family friendly trails in Cape Range National Park, such as the Yardie Gorge Trail and Lakeside Trail which are easy walks with great views. Mandu Mandu Gorge and Badjirrajirra Loop are more challenging and better suited for experienced hikers.
Do I need to pay to get into Cape Range National Park?
Yes, there is an entry fee to get into Cape Range National Park. This fee helps maintain the park’s facilities and conservation in the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area.
Will I see wildlife while hiking?
Yes! Cape Range National Park has plenty of wildlife, kangaroos, rock wallabies and marine animals in Ningaloo Marine Park. Black-flanked rock wallabies are often seen on the gorge walls of Yardie Creek.
Guided hikes?
Yes, guided tours are available to get a deeper understanding of the park’s geology and wildlife. They visit Yardie Gorge, Mandu Mandu Gorge and more.
