Mount Augustus
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Tourism WA
Tourism WA
Tourism WA
Tourism WA
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Overview
Highlights
Mount Augustus is a must-see natural bucket list attraction located in the remote wilderness of Australia's Golden Outback.
The world's largest monolith, Mount Augustus, is two and a half times the size of Uluru. It's an awesome sight, whether you're gazing up at the 750-metre high summit from its 49-kilometre scenic base trail (four wheel drive only) or snapping shots from the Emu Hill Lookout. At sunrise and sunset the colours change from cool greens and blues to golden glows. Standing proudly in the north-west of the Gascoyne-Murchison region, 360 kilometres from Meekatharra, you'll need to allow at least two days to drive here from Perth.
Take the 49km Loop Drive around Mount Augustus while you are there. Access rocky creeks and gorges, open plains, view Aboriginal rock engravings (petroglyphs) and encounter a variety of wildlife.
A closer look will reveal ancient rock art and the mysterious caves of the Wadjari Aboriginal people, who call the ancient landmark 'Burringurrah'. For thousands of years, the rock's natural springs have been a source of water for the Wadjari people, and you can see evidence of their habitation at the Mundee, Ooramboo and Beedoboondu visitor sites. Surrounded by gum trees, wattle and many native trees and shrubs, the area is also a haven for wildlife, from emus, kangaroos and goannas to kookaburras, honeyeaters and birds of prey.
There’s a walk trail for everyone – from the climb to the summit (taking 5-8 hours and requiring a high level of fitness) to short walks on flat terrain of 300 or 500m, and everything in-between. All walk trails in the park are essentially unmodified with ground level trail marking dots to follow. Walkers should read the information on each trail, and take particular note of the walk trail classifications.
Choose walk trails suitable to your capabilities. Carry and drink 3 to 4 litres of water per person per day of walking; wear sturdy shoes and protection from the sun, wind and rain. Because of the extreme heat in summer, walking during this time is not recommended. If you do walk in summer, extra water will be required. The Wajarri traditional owners request that visitors complete all their walking during daylight hours.
There is no camping available in the national park. Camp sites and other types of accommodation are available at the Mount Augustus Outback Tourist Park. The tourist park is privately owned and operated by the owners of Mount Augustus Cattle Station. Fuel and basic supplies are available from the tourist park. Open fires are not permitted in the national park.
Drinking water is not available in the national park. Carry enough water for your own needs.
To stay safe when visiting this attraction, please visit the Parks website here https://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park/mount-augustus for more information.
Activities
- Four-wheel driving
- Hiking
- Sight-seeing
- Photography
Facilities
- Information shelter
- Picnic tables
- Toilets
- No drinking water available in this park - ensure to bring sufficient water for your journey.
Important Information
Your Safety
Information sourced from WA Parks & Wildlife Services. See there website for further detailed information.
- The risks from exposure and dehydration are significant in this area. During the hotter months (at least December – March) these risks are extreme. Temperatures often exceed 40 degrees Celsius.
- Walk in groups of three or more – in an emergency one might need to wait with the injured person while someone goes for help;
- Tell a trusted and responsible person of your plans and provide sufficient detail to them so they can get help if required;
- Each person needs to carry and drink 3 to 4 litres of water per day of walking;
- Carefully review your daily drinking water needs. Carry cool water if possible;
- There is no drinking water in the park. Extra water may be needed if walking in the hotter months;
- Plan your walk for the most suitable season and/or daily weather conditions;
- Wear a broad brimmed hat, sunscreen and a loose long sleeved shirt for protection from the sun;
- Take regular breaks when walking;
- Wear sturdy footwear and follow the trail markers; and
- Walk during the cooler parts of the day – there will also be more wildlife about during this time.
Walking trails are usually natural unmodified surfaces. Beware of:
- undercut cliff edges; and
- loose rocks and unstable surfaces.
Guidelines
- Always do some research before heading out for your journey. Visit the local visitor information centre for the most up to date information.
- Stay safe and get the most out of your visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care.
- Wear suitable footwear and ensure to wear appropriate clothing to protect yourself from the elements when outside exploring.
- Plan ahead and ensure to take enough food, fuel and water for your journey.
- Always stay on the marked tracks where possible. Never climb fences, they are there for your own safety.
- Please consider the environment, take your rubbish with you or place in the bins provided. We want to ensure these beautiful places are still here for our future generations to enjoy.
- Ensure to let a responsible adult know of your plans and report back into them once you have finished exploring for the day.
- National park fees may apply for national parks in Australia. Check the parks website for bookings and/ or further details.
- Entry fees may change at anytime at the discretion of Parks and Wildlife Services, check their website for the most up to date information.
Photo credits: Tourism WA
Content credits: Tourism WA, Parks and Wildlife Service & Aussie Bucket List®
Location & Supplier
Mount Augustus
Address: Mount Augustus, East Lyons River WA 6705
7 people have added this to their Bucket List
