There’s always plenty of options to see more of our beautiful state, whether it’s close to home or further away. Have you planned your next regional WA road trip?

There’s nothing better than skipping away for a weekend to indulge in some R&R, fresh air, delicious feasting and a scenic drive or two. 

Enjoy a slow-burn weekend away and return fired-up and full of energy.

Hiking in the South West and Great Southern

Cape to Cape

Ever considered trekking the 125km Cape to Cape?

If you’d like to try it out but aren’t keen on the full length, or simply want to get an idea of what to expect, start at places you can drive into for day hikes.

If coordinating people or cars is too hard, consider joining a tour group.

For a great day hike, follow trails from Injidup Beach to Moses Rock (about 11km, 3-4 hours) or from Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to Dunsborough (about 16km, 4-5 hours).

This latter trail isn’t an official section of the Cape to Cape but offers a good variety of trails and would be ideal for a training session.

Both sections are fine for most ages, though hiking poles might be preferred for those who need additional comfort or support.

For longer stints try a two-night, three-day hike with incredible ocean views for most of the way, starting at the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and following the trail to Gracetown (about 60km).

Another option of similar length and time is from Redgate Beach to Hamelin Bay.

This trail starts and ends on the beach, but weaves into bushland and through camping sites as you go south.

Completing a section of the Cape to Cape when you’re in the South West, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and beautiful scenery, while still being able to indulge in the South West’s famous produce.

Bluff Knoll

Bluff Knoll  is a mountain in the Great Southern and the highest peak of the Stirling Range. Sitting just under 1100m in elevation, it has also on occasion received snowfall.

The 6.8km hike will get your heart pumping but is achievable for most ages and fitness levels. It takes around 4-6 hours to complete, with stops along the way and photos at the top.

Along the trail, you’ll see a variety of flora and fauna including wildflowers, plus stunning views across the Stirling Ranges and surrounding farmland, lakes and, on clear days, the ocean around Albany.

Avoid starting in the afternoon in winter as it can be a bit tricky if you can’t see the trail at dusk and into the night.

In summer, avoid the heat by hiking in the early morning or late afternoon. The top will always be cooler in summer or potentially freezing in the colder months, so pack accordingly.

Bluff Knoll offers a fantastic weekend trip,  – you can camp or stay nearby or drive in from Albany or Mount Barker – and the Porongurups are worth a visit.

Granite Skywalk

While in the Porongurups and Bluff Knoll area, don’t skip the Granite Skywalk at Castle Rock (pictured below). It’s just over 4.4km and about 1.5hrs return depending on how long you spend taking in the brilliant views.

You’ll need to use a staircase drilled into the rock and climb over a few large boulders to get to the skywalk, so if you struggle with heights or climbing there’s a lower lookout point as an alternative.

Look online at Trails WA for hiking (and mountain biking or river paddling) suggestions across WA. The website includes all the information you need to know, plus photographs and reviews from other hikers.

The Department of Parks and Wildlife website also offers great information, including alerts for park closures, general safety updates and emergency warnings.

You can also buy National Park Passes and book campgrounds via the website.

Scenic drives and wildflowers in regional WA

Take a drive into Southern WA right now and you’re likely to see winter greenery, rolling, pre-harvest farming countryside and, very soon, wildflowers.

Consider Coalseam Conservation Park (pictured below), where annual wildflowers are reliable and beautiful scenery is guaranteed.

Plan before you drive by downloading the Wildflower Guide and checking the WA Visitor Centre wildflower tracker.

Keep in mind the safety of yourself, other travellers and the environment when travelling and camping with open fires or when using gas-fired barbecues and heaters.