Hike the Bibbulmun Track: Donnelly River to Balingup

Description

Hike the forest terrain on this stretch of the Bibbulmun Track. From Donnelly River Village to Balingup, you’ll pass through some of the most beautiful strands of karri trees in the southwest of Western Australia. Hike through Blackwood Valley and Golden Valley Tree Park in Balingup. Visit remains of old rail and mill formations and learn about the region’s history. Each afternoon head back to your accommodation and relax with your fellow walkers. Enjoy all the sights, sounds and smells of the Bibbulmun track with the ease and comfort of only needing to unpack once.

Trip Name

Hike the Bibbulmun Track: Donnelly River to Balingup

Last Updated

1970-01-01

Days

Capacity

Highlights

Hike the forest terrain of the well-known Bibbulmun track from Donnelly River to Balingup, located in the heart of Karri, Marri and Jarrah country.
Engage with the region’s local history as you pass remains of old rail and mill formations.
Hike the banks of the Blackwood River and challenge yourself as you ascend Cardiac Hill.
Visit Willow Springs, the Southampton Bridge and Golden Valley Tree Park.
Explore the historical towns of Donnelly River and Balingup and say hi to Donnelly River’s friendly emu and kangaroo residents.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

Day 1 - Perth to Bridgetown

Welcome to Western Australia! Departing from Perth, you’ll travel to Donnelly River where you’ll start the day’s walk. After a picnic lunch in the peaceful surrounds of this old logging town, you’ll head North along the track through Karri Forest. Keep an eye out for the old railway sleeper bridges that were used to cross some of the creeks in this area. You’ll finish today’s hike at Willow Springs – a mill site with the remains of the old arboretum. After a short drive, you’ll reach your accommodation in Bridgetown. Settle in and unpack before heading to dinner with your hiking group.

Day 2 - Bridgetown

From Willow Springs, you’ll continue north. Heading out of Karri Forest and past Gregory Brook shelter, this comfortable hike features remains of the old rail formations. This evening return to Bridgetown and maybe wander through the town and find a local restaurant for dinner.

Day 3 - Bridgetown

This morning, you’ll set out along the banks of the Blackwood River. Enjoy the diverse scenery, including views of the river valley forests and wildflowers in spring as you hike. As you reach the peak of Cardiac Hill, you’ll be rewarded at the top with panoramic views over the Blackwood Valley. Continue hiking on the Greenbushes loop to your pickup location for the day.

Day 4 - Bridgetown to Perth

Today’s hike is only short, finishing at the Golden Valley Tree Park. Take in the scenic views and wander through the different species of trees planted in the valley. Soon it’s time to say goodbye to the forest terrain of the Bibbulmun Track. On your way back to Perth, stop for lunch before arriving in the city in the late afternoon. This is where your trip ends.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Accommodation

Lodge (3 nights)

Transport

Private Vehicle, Walking