 Mount Augustus
Mount Augustus, or Burringurrah as it is known by the local Wadjari Aboriginal people is one of the world's most spectacular peaks is 750 metres above the surrounding plain and is visible for more than 160 kilometres.
The rock itself, which culminates in a small peak on a plateau, is about eight kilometres long and covers an area of 4,795 hectares. At about twice the size of Ayres Rock it is the biggest rock in the world.
Interesting rock formations, caves and aboriginal art are found on many parts of the rock that have been untouched for thousands of years. The area also boasts abundance of wildflowers and numerous varieties of bird and wildlife, nearby cattle pool on the Lyons River which is over two kilometres long and well shaded making it a lovely area for fishing, swimming, canoeing and picnicking.
 No camping or open fires are permitted within the National Park. Accommodation, powered caravan sites, camping facilites, meals, fuel and water are available at Mount Augustus Outback Tourist Resort.
There are many things to see and do around Mount Augustus. Burringurrah Drive is a 49 kilometre circuit providing views of the changing faces of the rock and gains access to all feature sites. Suitable for conventional two wheel drive vehicles.
Emu Hill Lookout is a good location from which to take photographs of the Mount, with sunset usually the most colourful.
Goolinee is a permanent pool on Lyons River. Please take note this is a day use area only and reeds in the pool can make swimming hazardous. From the pool you can walk along the Corella Trail. The trail beginning mid way along the pool is a two kilometre return taking one hour. The area is great for birdlife and fauna.
Goordgeela is a small recreational spot at the base of the rock. A trail runs to the cave where there are great views of the Lyons River. The Cave Hill Trail is a four kilometre return taking two hours. The trail is short and steep and runs up from Goordgeela to the cave entrance. Do not enter the cave as its ceiling is unstable and rock falls do occur.
Mundee is a rock wall with engravings of kangaroo, emu and bustard tracks in three cave like overhangs. From here you can take the Petroglyph Trail, an easy 300 metres return walk.
Taking a short walk along the creek bed of approximately 250 metres will bring you to Beedoboonda, a huge rock that lies across the stream bed. Crawl under the rock to observe Aboriginal engravings. After heavy rain, water cascades over the rocks forming several waterfalls. If you are fit and an experienced bushwalker you can walk along the Summit Trail, a 12 kilometre walk taking six hours return.
From the summit there are extensive views over the surrounding plain and drainage basin to distant ranges. An early start is recommended and wear sturdy footwear, protective clothing and carry at least two litres of water per person. Seek advice from the ranger or the Mount Augustus Outback Tourist Resort.
The Pound is a natural basin once used for holding cattle prior to moving them on the hoof to Meekatharra. You can walk the Saddle Trail from here, a two kilometre walk taking one hour return. It provides views south into The Pound and north over the Lyons River valley.
Ooramboo is a short stroll of approximately 150 metres to view Aboriginal engravings of animal tracks along an escarpment. Edney's Trail, a six kilometres walk taking two and a half hours return is a well defined trail. It will lead you to Edney's Lookout. The peak is clearly seen from the Tourist Resort. The trail is suitable for those seeking elevated views but do not wisk to tackle the more strenuous Summit trail.
Warrarla Gum Grove is a pleasant picnic site set among a grove of large river gums. The Kotke Gorge Trail is a two kilometre walk taking one hour return, and is a ramble and rock hop along the usually dry creek bed. There you can discover the variety of rock shapes and textures exposed in the creek bed. Please note there is no marked trail up the Kotke Gorge.
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WA's National Parks & Reserves can be closed at times because of bushfire danger, Cyclone or flooding and other natural emergencies. Phone 1300 657 721 for emergency alerts or visit the FESA for more information. Find out about the National Parks and forests of WA by visiting CALM. Remember, play it safe and tell others where you go and when you will be back.
All images © WA Tourism.
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Disclaimer: The information contained about this region is provided as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, Break Loose Publishing disclaim any liability or responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein. For our complete Disclaimer please follow the link at the foot of the page.
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