See you at the top of Granite Skywalk perched 670m above sea level.
Live a life that truly rocks by scaling the South West’s most surreal climb, the Granite Skywalk. Not one for the faint-hearted, the suspended steel walkway hugs the ancient granite dome Castle Rock – perched 670m above sea level.
From here, the views are nothing short of epic and the climb to get there, simply breathtaking in all senses.
Here we share with you all you need to know about the Granite Skywalk.
Where is it
The Granite Skywalk is the main attraction in Porongurp National Park and is a 4.5 hour drive (400km) via Albany Highway from Perth and approximately a 45 minute drive (44km) north of Albany.
The National Heritage listed park dates back to the Jurassic period with its towering granite boulders over 1,100 million years old and covers 2,600 hectares.
WA’s Jurassic Park is also recognised as a biodiversity hotspot, home to towering Marri and Karri forest and over native 700-plant species, including myrtles, banksias, kangaroo paws, and rice flowers. In the wildflower season, the stony scenery spectacularly pops with colour, making the landscape even more of a treat to visit.
How difficult is Granite Skywalk?
The walk is suitable for moderate bushwalkers; however, reaching the summit itself is a picturesque scramble.
Give yourself at least two hours to complete the 4.4km trail to reach its 670m peak. It’s mostly a gradual ascent meandering under the forest canopy until things become, well, rocky.
There are two lookout points, and if you’re not feeling confident to do the extra climb that requires bodywork, head to the lower platform. This platform is also suspended, and the views do not disappoint. The lower lookout is also nearby Balancing Rock – the park’s other star attraction.
Some boulder action is required just before you reach the summit and upper viewing platform, but don’t worry, it’s not as intense as it seems – just make sure you have a good grip. Steel handles are bolted onto the granite domes to help you conquer the rocky pass.
The last leg is the most thrilling, with a caged ladder climb to reach the ranges’ grand balcony. If you fear heights, just make sure you don’t look down when climbing the steel ladder to the Granite Skywalk. Make sure that no one is under you when you begin your climb up for obvious safety reasons.
All the sweat and endurance are worth it when you reach the Granite Skywalk, awarded with the most sweeping vistas of the region.
Ensure you spend enough time on this engineering marvel to appreciate views of the Porongurup Ranges, Albany, Mount Garder, Mount Manypeaks, and surrounding farmlands.
What to bring
Comfy hiking attire makes for a good hiking experience, so make sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear with a good grip. Most of the hike is shaded but make sure to bring plenty of water and slap on the sunscreen if the sun is out.
What not to do
When in nature, leave no trace, so make sure you bring all your rubbish with you and dispose of it responsibly.
Be respectful of other people’s experience too, when choosing to fly a drone – it may be a buzz killer.
Is there an entry fee to Granite Skywalk?
National Park entry fees apply for Porongurup National Park, but we can assure you the spend is worth the sweat.
Private vehicle for up to 12 people is $15 per day or $25 for a five-day national park pass.
Find out more details here.
Park amenities
Feeling hungry after exerting all those energies? The Castle Rock picnic area is a great spot to feast in the forest and is equipped with BBQs, picnic tables and shelters, and drop toilets with sanitiser.
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See More Here: Travel Western Australia