Bluff Knoll is the most famous mountain in Western Australia. Although it only reaches an elevation of 1099m, it still offers impressive views over the other peaks in the National Park. It is a challenging but rewarding hike.
I highly recommend you complete this hike if you are travelling to Western Australia, love hiking and the outdoors.
Where is it?
Bluff Knoll is located in the Stirling Range National Park in Western Australia. It is accessible via a gravel road, which slowly climbs up to the car park. You will need a car to access the starting route of Bluff Knoll.
What to Bring
What you bring will depend on what time of year and day you plan on completing the hike. The hike can be completed anytime of year but I recommend you summit in summer or spring. Winter brings a lot of rain to the Stirling Range area, but also keep in mind that during the peak of summer, temperatures can reach above 30 degrees Celsius.
If summiting for sunrise bring warm clothes including; a beanie, thermals (optional), a jacket, gloves and warm pants. It gets cold at the top of Bluff Knoll for sunrise no matter what time of year. Its best to be over prepared then to be sitting at the top in the cold, uncomfortable, waiting for sunrise!
If summiting during the day; comfortable active wear, a jacket (seasonal) and a hat.
Other things to bring are a water bottle, small backpack, snacks, sunscreen and camera gear. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes for this hike as it involves a lot of climbing up steps. There is nowhere at the Bluff Knoll carpark to fill up water bottles, so make sure you bring enough for the hike.
Distanct
The total return distance of the Bluff Knoll hikes is 6km. This may not seem like a big distance, however, the track is pretty much a straight incline which is made up of steps and small steep ascents. This hike can be completed by all ages, just make sure you take your time and have some level of fitness.
The Hike
Starting at the carpark you will have a short descent down the the base of the mountain, from here the track starts climbing and winding around the mountain. You will start the hike through bush area, which is the only shade on this hike. As the hike climbs higher you will become more exposed, passing some rocky outcrops, a waterfall (seasonal) and plenty of Australian bush.
As I previously stated, this hike is pretty much all steps. It is very well maintained. Once you are about half way through the summit you will start seeing some amazing views and the car park where you started. The track hugs the side of the mountain and from the trail it drops into the bushland below. Don’t worry it’s completely safe.
About 3/4 of the way through you will reach a sign which states to check to the weather conditions. The top of Bluff Knoll can be windy and covered in cloud, even if the hike up was clear. If the weather conditions look like they could turn, I would suggest turning back now. From this sign the track starts to open up as you make your way to the ridge of Bluff Knoll. You will be welcomed with beautiful views over the other peaks of the Stirling Ranges and the mountains surrounding Bluff Knoll.
Making your way to the summit
Once you are on top of the mountain the track get a little easier, as it has some flatter sections. There is no shade or protection from the elements on this part of the hike. You will pass rocky outcrops and rocky sections. There are many viewpoints on this section of the hike so make sure to stop and take it all in! Once you’ve climbed a little further and up some false summits, you will reach the top of Bluff Knoll.
Once at the top make sure to stop and take in your surroundings, explore the summit a little but make sure to stay away from the edge and stick to the paths. At the top you will be able to see the car park where you started and congratulate yourself for completing this challenging hike.
The climb down
After you’ve finished admiring the views on the top of Bluff Knoll you will make your way down the same way you summited. This is either easy or harder for some people. It can be hard on the knees as you will mainly be descending steps.
Conclusion
Although Bluff Knoll is a challenging hike it is definitely worth it! If you have some extra time and want to explore some of the other mountains in the Stirling Ranges, I highly recommend you stay at the Stirling Range Retreat and spend a few day exploring. If you would like a more in depth guide to the Stirling Range National Park, you can check out my guide here.
