Few experiences in Western Australia rival the sensation of walking high in the forest canopy, surrounded by towering giants that have stood for centuries. The Valley of the Giants, located near Walpole in the South West, is one of those rare places that manages to feel both humbling and exhilarating in equal measure. Home to the famous Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk and the Ancient Empire, it’s an essential stop for those exploring the wild southern coastline.
This guide brings together everything you need to know about visiting the Valley of the Giants — from where it is and how to get there, to what you can expect as you wander through one of the most extraordinary forest landscapes in the country.
Where is the Valley of the Giants?
The Valley of the Giants sits between Walpole and Denmark in Australia’s South West region. It’s about 420 kilometres south of Perth, a drive of just over five hours, and just 18 kilometres from the town of Walpole, making it an easy half-day trip if you’re based there.
Click here to get directions via Google Maps.
Things to do nearby
The main drawcard is, of course, the Tree Top Walk and Ancient Empire, but the Valley of the Giants is also a gateway to the broader Walpole wilderness. The surrounding national parks are laced with hiking trails, picnic spots, and hidden lookouts that showcase the rugged beauty of this part of the South West.
Coastal inlets and tranquil rivers wind through old-growth forests, and scenic drives reveal ever-changing views of granite headlands, beaches, and vast stretches of forest. For those who like to linger, Walpole is a gentle base, with small cafés, a relaxed pace, and easy access to the forests and waterways.
The Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk
The jewel of the Valley of the Giants is the Tree Top Walk — a world-class eco-experience that allows visitors to stroll among the canopy of ancient tingle trees. Opened in 1996, the walkway was designed to protect the fragile root systems of the forest while allowing people to experience it in a way that was once impossible.
Suspended 40 metres above the ground, the steel walkway spans 600 metres in length, gently rising into the treetops. From this vantage point, the perspective is entirely transformed: the forest floor falls away, bird calls echo at eye level, and shafts of light filter through the canopy. The walk is fully accessible for wheelchairs and prams, making it an experience that can be shared across generations.
The Tree Top Walk is open daily, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with extended hours from December 26 to January 26. Entry fees apply, with discounts available for children and families.
Tree Top Walk admission fees:
- Adults (16 years and over): $21.00
- Concession: $15.50
- Children 6 to 15 years: $10.50
- Family pass: $52.50 (2 adults, 2 children)
- Children 5 years and younger: Free
The Ancient Empire
If the Tree Top Walk offers a bird’s-eye perspective, the Ancient Empire draws you back down to earth. This interpretive trail winds through the base of the forest, where you can wander among colossal red tingle trees — some more than 400 years old. The most famous of these is the Grandmother Tingle, whose hollowed trunk is large enough to walk through.
The boardwalks and pathways are designed to protect the forest while allowing close encounters with its giants. Interpretive signage shares insights into the ecology and longevity of the tingle trees, while the trail’s beauty makes it a favourite for photographers and creatives looking for that inspirational spark.
Unlike the elevated walkway, the Ancient Empire is free to explore, making it a wonderful companion to the ticketed Tree Top Walk. Together, the two experiences give visitors an unforgettable day out.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and autumn are generally the best times of the year to visit. In spring, wildflowers brighten the forest floor, while autumn brings crisp air and warm light. Summer can be quite warm so ensure you take a bottle of cool water with you. If visiting in winter, watch the weather forecast and wear a warm, waterproof jacket.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes. The Tree Top Walk is accessible for prams, and children are often captivated by the sense of adventure. The Ancient Empire, with its winding boardwalks and tree hollows, feels like a natural playground.
How accessible is it?
The Tree Top Walk was designed with accessibility in mind, accommodating wheelchairs and those with limited mobility. The Ancient Empire has some uneven sections, but much of it is still manageable for most visitors.
What are the opening hours and entry costs?
The Tree Top Walk is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with last entry around 4:15 pm. Entry is ticketed, with family passes available. The Ancient Empire is free to enter and open during daylight hours.
How long should I allow for a visit?
At minimum, allow one to two hours to enjoy both the Tree Top Walk and the Ancient Empire at a relaxed pace. Many visitors spend half a day, especially if they include a picnic or explore nearby forest drives.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket (the forest can be cool even in summer), water, and a camera. Weather can shift quickly in the South West, so layering is advisable.
