Cape to Cape Track
Overview
Rated one of the Top Ten multi-day walks in Australia by Australian Geographic, the Cape to Cape Track meanders for 135km across the spectacular coastline of the Margaret River Region in the South West corner of Western Australia. Walkers pass through coastal heath, magical karri forest and woodlands to sweeping cliff top views, spectacular remote beaches, limestone caves and historic lighthouses.
The track can be tackled as a 5-8 day walk with camping on the track, rustic or luxury accommodation options along the way or even enjoyed in smaller sections as leisurely short walks with half or full day options.
When to go: The Cape to Cape Track is accessible year-round.
Spring is best for wildflower and whale watching viewing.
Autumn offers cooler days, moderate sea-breezes and spectacular sunsets.
Winter can be cool and wet (have appropriate gear) with some diversions around the flowing Margaret River and other winter streams, but often means you have the track to yourself.
Summers can be hot and dry (check bushfire risks) with the chance to cool off with an ocean dip - be prepared to carry more drinking water in the summer months which may be in limited supply along the track!
Because of its numerous access points, this walk trail offers many alternative walk options ranging from:
- a stroll of an hour or two, half-day or full day walks
- overnighters or 2 to 3 day sections
- A superb 5 – 9 day challenge of the entire Cape to Cape Track. Fit walkers can do it in 4 to 5 days but most people walk it in 6 or 7.
You can choose to camp out along the track, or do day trips and make use of the wide variety of excellent accommodation available nearby.
Supported walking options also available!
From luxury packages with meals and accommodation to basic camping options, guided or self-guided. Please contact the local Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River and Augusta Visitor Centres on (08) 9780 5911 for more informa
More information
Track Difficulty Rating:Easy to moderate depending on section selected. Water resources are limited along the track to some campsites, townships and seasonal springs. Please check local conditions or be prepared to carry extra drinking water.
Usage:
The Cape to Cape Track lies almost wholly within the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park and is managed by the Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW). It is a walker track only, no wheeled vehicles or dogs permitted on the track.
More information:
A detailed description of the entire track can be found in the Cape to Cape Guidebook by Jane Scott and Ray Forma and topographic Cape to Cape Track Map Packs, published by Dept. Parks and Wildlife, are all available for purchase from the Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River Visitor Centres.
More detailed information can also be found on the Cape to Cape Track website and park alerts should be checked for the latest track conditions before setting out.
Sections of the Track that currently accommodate wheelchairs and strollers etc. include:
- Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to Sugarloaf Rock car park - 3.4 km- designated Access for More with paving and boardwalks. Toilets available at Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and Sugarloaf Car Park
- Ellensbrook Homestead 1 km paved path & boardwalk to Meekadarabee Cave and Falls.Toilets. - Ellensbrook Beach 200 m paved path to a coastal lookout. No toilets
- Redgate Beach Coastal lookout at main car park. Toilets
Best Direction to walk:
Either way is good, though most hikers walk north to south. There are more points of access in the northern half. The southern half has more of a wilderness 'feel' and is more challenging. There is often a strong southerly wind in summer.
Mobile Coverage:
Although improving, coverage is intermittent. You may need to move to a high point to obtain reception.
Camping:
The Track has 4 basic campsites with small water-tanks, drop-toilet and tables, but no shelters. There are park managed campgrounds on the Track at Contos (water) and Point Road (no water) and private caravan parks at Yallingup, Gracetown (3 km from the Track), Prevelly Park and Hamelin Bay.
Water:
Drinking water is available at townsites and campsites (boiling advised). Water from streams (mostly dry in summer) is not recommended for drinking as it mostly flows off agricultural land. Some springs may have water but are unreliable in summer. Walkers should always carry water!
Fees:
There are no fees for walking on the Track. The basic campsites are free, but there is a small charge at the park managed campgrounds.
Campfires: A 'Fuel Stoves Only' policy applies, and no campfires are allowed anywhere along the Track at any time, except seasonally park managed campgrounds.