The Bald Head Walk Trail Albany, in the Torndirrup National Park is a 12.5km return walk trail that returns back along the same trail. It extends out onto Flinders Peninsula, with Isthmus Bay and the Southern Ocean on one side and Freshman Bay on the other. This was my first official hike and boy did I set the bar high for myself. We scored a stunning late Spring day (we hiked in early November) with a mix of sunshine and overcast conditions and a comfortable maximum of around 21 degrees. The views all the way along this walk are nothing short of breath taking and you don’t have to walk too far before you’ll see some of the most magnificent sights you may ever see.
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How far is the start of the Bald Head Walk Trail from Albany?
It’s about a 10 minute drive from Albany (which is 5 hours south east of Perth). It’s accessible by 2WD and there is a small carpark at the start of the walk trail.
How long does the Bald Head Walk Trail take?
The full Bald Head Walk Trail took us around 6 hours return and we spent around 30 mins at the end to enjoy a little break, taking in the incredible views and refuelling with some snacks before heading back. While the views throughout the walk vary and are beautiful all the way along, the best views are at Isthmus Hill (around 600m into the walk) and at the end, looking out towards the Southern Ocean. If you don’t have quite that much time, you can go to Isthmus Hill which is 1.2km return and around 20-30 mins depending on how long you want to take enjoying the view and taking photos.
How difficult is the Bald Head Walk Trail?
The Bald Head Walk Trail has been assigned as Grade 4 which is recommended for very experienced hikers. While I had not done an official hike before (plenty of shorter bush walks) I am a regular exerciser, had a good level of overall fitness, and was with a couple of experienced hikers also. The trail is obviously long, and it also has many elevations. In particular a very steep incline down on the last leg to the end of the Flinders Peninsula, which sets you up for a pretty steep climb as you start to make your way back. Hiking boots or shoes and gaitors are highly recommened for this hike.
What is the Bald Head Walk Trail like?
The trail surface varies. The trail starts with a boardwalk and after this there are sections of sand pathways, limestone steps, packed limestone paths and granite outcrops. There are sections that are steep and challenging. These sections include sandy dune and rocky step climbs.
Is the Bald Head Trail marked?
The Bald Head Trail is easy to follow and is marked all the way along by cairns (piles of rocks). There is also a large pile of rocks at the end, that mark the far end of the trail. You can add a rock to the pile to mark your accomplishment in reaching the far end of the trail.
What is there to see along the way along the Bald Head Walk Trail?
There are also lots of varied views along the way. From views across the Albany and King George Sound, dense bushland and wildflowers on the Peninsula, out into the Southern Ocean and from the top of tall granite cliffs.
Can I access the beach along the Bald Head Walk Trail?
There is access to the beach at the start section of the trail which is well sign posted. It’s recommended that you don’t try to walk the trails via the beaches however due to the unforeseen hazards.
Are snakes common along the Bald Head Walk Trail?
We saw one snake along the trail, and sightings of snakes are common on the Bald Head Walk Trail. There are are some narrow sections along the trail with dense scrub on either side. It’s also recommended that at minimum, long pants are worn and wearing of gaiters and carrying a small first aid kit with plenty of bandages are also recommended.
How much water should I take on the Bald Head Walk Trail?
It’s recommended that you take at least 2 litres of water per person on the walk. I purchased a 3 litre hydration pack for my day hiking pack to make carrying and drinking my water regularly through the hose over my shoulder easy.
What is the best time to do the Bald Head Walk Trail?
The Bald Head Walk Trail is a long hike, with difficult extended sections of steep inclines. There is also little shade along the trail. Patches of sunshine offer the best photo taking opportunities and bring out the stunning aqua and blues in the ocean and the contrasting greens of the natural bushland. I recommend doing the trail during mild and full to partly sunny days in winter, autumn and spring and the earlier in the day you can get started the better. You don’t want to be coming back too late and trying to find your way back in the dark.
Are there places to stop on the Bald Head Walk Trail along the way?
The rocky outcrops are a great place to stop for a break. We stopped at a rocky spot towards the end for a hot Jet Boil cuppa.
Bald Head Walk Trail Map
Summary
If you have a high fitness level and love a long hike, the Bald Head Walk Trail Albany is an absolute must for your hiking to do list. The scenery is spectacular, the trail is well marked with sections that are challenging as well as sections that are a little easier. There’s plenty of spots to stop for a break along the way, to enjoy the changing scenery and to do the trail at your own pace. If you are looking for another hike while in the Albany area check out the Castle Rock and Granite Skywalk Trail.
Start: At the carpark on Bald Head Road, Torndirrup National Park
Distance: ~12.5km
Difficulty: Grade 4. High level of fitness required. Bushwalking experience recommended. Tracks long, rough and very steep. Directional signage limited.
Time: ~6-8hrs
Toilets: None
Water: 2-3 per person (bring your own, no drinking water facilities)
Dogs: Not permitted
Bikes: Not permitted
Map: See above
More information: parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au
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