Porongurup National Park (Castle Rock)

Porongurup National Park, located approximately 40 kilometers north of Albany in Western Australia's Great Southern region, is renowned for its ancient granite peaks, lush karri forests, and diverse flora and fauna. The park's centerpiece is the Granite Skywalk at Castle Rock, a 4.7-kilometer return trail that leads hikers through jarrah, marri, and karri forests, past the fascinating Balancing Rock, to the base of Castle Rock and the lower lookout. Reaching the upper lookout requires navigating over and under granite rocks and climbing a 6-meter ladder, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The park offers a variety of walking trails catering to different fitness levels, from easy loops through the forest to more challenging hikes like the Devils Slide and Nancy Peak trails. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking at designated areas equipped with barbecues and picnic tables. The Porongurup Scenic Drive provides a 23-kilometer route around the park, offering impressive views of the entire Porongurup Range. The park is home to over 750 plant species, including 55 species of orchids, and is a haven for wildlife such as western grey kangaroos, brush wallabies, and various bird species. Entry fees apply, and dogs are not permitted within the park. For more information, visit the official park page.