Yesterday a group of us took a day trip to Bluff Knoll which is the highest point in the south-west of Western Australia and is situated in the Stirling Range. The drive from Perth is about 4 hrs heading south along Albany Hwy.

It is 1,095 m above sea level and is one of the very few places that snow has been reported in Western Australia, with snow falling usually once a year. The most recent ‘heavy’ snow was recorded on October 6, 1992. Now on this day the weather seemed to change every few minutes from light rain, to warm winter sun shine and then very strong winds at a seconds notice. I was so glad I packed warm clothes and gloves when I got to the top.

Climbing Bluff Knoll took about four hours, on a 6 km return track which tested my level of fitness to be honest. Don’t think its a level trail by any means, in places its a real test on your legs. It is also possible to ascend the face of the bluff with rock climbing equipment, but i think ill leave that to the pro’s. At the top the temperature was very cold and the wind was extremely strong.

The view from the summit encompasses the Stirling and Porongurup mountain ranges, as well as the coast near Albany which is visible on a clear day. I must say I was amazed by the view and the chance to get some pictures was well worth the effort. Bluff Knoll is visible from Albany, along with Toolbrunup.

View Bluff Knoll Photo Gallery from this great day out. Thanks go out to my mate Kim who organised this trip.

Where: Bluff Knoll is in the Stirling Range National Park, around 400km southeast of Perth and 80km north of Albany.
Why: It’s the highest peak in southern WA
Grade: A steep and unrelenting climb, ascending more than 700m. Pack for alpine conditions.

More Info:  CALM Albany office (08) 9842 4500, Stirling Range NP

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