Cape to Cape Track (northern section) - Image 1
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Cape to Cape Track Northern Section

4.9
·11 reviews·Gnarabup, Australia

Hike through diverse ecosystems along WA's stunning coast, from sandy beaches to forest, with accessible options.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring (Sept-Nov)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temps

CrowdMedium
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Cape to Cape Track (northern section) - Image 1

Cape to Cape Track Northern Section

Best Time

Spring (Sept-Nov)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temps

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hike through diverse ecosystems along WA's stunning coast, from sandy beaches to forest, with accessible options.

4.9
(11 reviews)

"Amazing walk through 3 different ecosystems in just 2 hours!"

Vertical photo
TIP

💧 Hydration is Key

Carry at least 3L of water per person, especially in warmer months. Dehydration is a serious risk.

👟 Prepare for Sand

Sections of the track are sandy, which can be challenging. Wear supportive footwear and be ready for a workout.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bob's Hollow Coastal Views

Bob's Hollow Coastal Views

North of Conto's

Experience upgraded boardwalks and steps offering stunning coastal vistas. Perfect for a scenic stroll or part of a longer trek.

Diverse Ecosystems

Diverse Ecosystems

Various points along the track

Hike through three distinct natural environments, from coastal heath to forest, showcasing the region's biodiversity.

Grace Town to Cape Naturaliste

Grace Town to Cape Naturaliste

Northern Section

A popular 45km stretch offering varied terrain, including challenging soft sand sections with rewarding ocean panoramas.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat and Fire Risk

Summer (February) on the Cape to Cape Track can be intensely hot and poses a significant bushfire risk. Prioritize hydration, carrying at least 3L of water per person per day, and be aware of fire conditions. Consider alternative seasons if heat is a concern.

Segment Your Adventure

The Cape to Cape Track is a long-distance trail, but many access points allow you to break it into manageable day walks. The northern section offers wheelchair accessibility in parts, making it adaptable for various fitness levels and needs.

Best Times

When
Spring (Sept-Nov)
Why
Wildflowers bloom, mild temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn (Mar-May)
Why
Cooler, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you been to Bob’s Hollow on the Cape to Cape track lately? 😍 📍 Margaret River Region, Western Australia. The section just north of Contos has had a fresh upgrade with new wooden steps, making it perfect for a stroll with epic views. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, hit the whole 123km Cape to Cape Track! 👌 🎥 @timcampbellphoto
margaretriver
708 likes • 29.3K views

💧 Hydration is Key

Carry at least 3L of water per person, especially in warmer months. Dehydration is a serious risk. Reddit

👟 Prepare for Sand

Sections of the track are sandy, which can be challenging. Wear supportive footwear and be ready for a workout. Reddit

reddit.com

Just over a week ago I solo hiked the Cape to Cape Trail (~130km's) in South West WA. I couldn't believe some of the scenery on this trail.

reddit.com

Cape to Cape in Feb - will it be too hot?

🚶‍♀️ Break it Down

Easily divide the track into shorter day walks using numerous vehicle access points. Reddit

⬆️ Hike in Reverse?

Some find walking the harder sections first (reverse direction) offers better scenery. Reddit

reddit.com

Margaret River region recommendations

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Hydration is Key

Carry at least 3L of water per person, especially in warmer months. Dehydration is a serious risk. Reddit

👟 Prepare for Sand

Sections of the track are sandy, which can be challenging. Wear supportive footwear and be ready for a workout. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Break it Down

Easily divide the track into shorter day walks using numerous vehicle access points. Reddit

⬆️ Hike in Reverse?

Some find walking the harder sections first (reverse direction) offers better scenery. Reddit

♿ Accessible Options

The northern section offers wheelchair-accessible paths, making it inclusive for more visitors. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(11 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Cape to Cape Track's stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and rewarding coastal views. The ability to break it into manageable day walks and the accessibility of parts of the northern section are highly appreciated. However, some find the sandy terrain challenging, and summer heat requires careful planning for hydration and safety.

"Amazing walk, walked through 3 different ecosystems in the 2hr walk. We walked it in reverse which was amazing got to see the scenery and walk the harder sections first (thank goodness)

Hike: Mod-Hard
Distance: 7.3km
Elevation: 146m

Definitely worth it."

Ben Forbes

"This trail is an amazing spectacle of the southwest. While the days can be long and the soft sand difficult, it showcases the amazing landscape of the area. Bring at least 3L of water per day. I recommend hiking it in 6 days if you are quite fit, 7 if you want to take your time. There is places to get fresh food along the way so you don’t need to pack for all 6 days. Enjoy!!"

Pat

"Great and beautiful track, track is quite sand in sections. Did the first 45km from Cape Naturalist to Grace Town."

C Presto

What People Like

Spectacular coastal scenery
Diverse ecosystems
Accessible sections

What People Dislike

Challenging sandy sections
Summer heat and fire risk

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The northern section is accessible from various points, including near Cape Naturaliste and Grace Town. Many vehicle access points allow you to start or end your hike at different locations, making it easy to plan day walks. Reddit

Public transport options are limited. It's generally recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange a shuttle service for multi-day hikes or to reach specific trailheads. Research local shuttle providers in the Margaret River region.

Yes, there are numerous parking areas and vehicle access points along the northern section, allowing you to drive directly to many trailheads for day hikes. Reddit

The northern section begins near Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. Driving from Perth, it's approximately a 3-hour journey south-west. Consider flying into Busselton Regional Airport for a shorter drive. Reddit

Parking is generally available at popular trailheads like Cape Naturaliste. For longer hikes, consider parking at one end and arranging transport back from the other, or using designated overnight parking if available and permitted.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Cape to Cape Track is a public trail and does not require tickets for entry. You can access and walk it freely. Reddit

While the track itself is free, there might be parking fees at some national park entry points or associated facilities. It's always good to check local signage. Reddit

The track is open 24/7. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery. Reddit

No booking is required for day hikes. You can start your walk at any accessible point. For multi-day hikes, it's advisable to book accommodation in advance if using established campsites or nearby towns. Reddit

Camping is generally not permitted along the track itself. Designated campsites or accommodation should be booked in advance in nearby towns or caravan parks. Reddit

🎫 compass Onsite Experience

The northern section offers varied difficulty. Some parts are moderate, while others, particularly sandy sections, can be challenging. Reviews suggest a 'Mod-Hard' rating for certain segments. Reddit

The northern section can be hiked in segments. A 7.3km walk is described as taking around 2 hours. For the full 123km track, fit hikers might take 6 days, while others prefer 7 days to take their time. Reddit

Yes, with its accessible sections and shorter walk options, families can enjoy parts of the northern section. The diverse scenery is engaging for children. Reddit

Expect to traverse through three different ecosystems, including coastal heath, forests, and dramatic ocean views. Bob's Hollow offers particularly impressive coastal vistas. Reddit

Facilities vary. Some popular trailheads and campsites may have toilets. Water sources are scarce, so carrying ample water is crucial. Reddit

📸 camera_with_flash Photography

Capture stunning coastal landscapes, especially around Bob's Hollow.TikTok Look for dramatic ocean vistas, unique flora, and the diverse ecosystems the track traverses. Sunrise and sunset can offer spectacular light. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and flattering light for landscape photography. Midday sun can be harsh. Instagram

Bob's Hollow is frequently highlighted for its epic views.TikTok Also, keep an eye out for elevated sections offering panoramic ocean panoramas, particularly between Cape Naturaliste and Grace Town. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to national park regulations. Always check with Parks and Wildlife Service WA for current rules and restrictions before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The northern section of the Cape to Cape Track offers a fantastic opportunity for families to experience Western Australia's stunning coastline. Its accessibility makes it a great choice; parts of the northern section are wheelchair accessible,Reddit meaning even families with strollers or members using mobility aids can enjoy parts of the trail. You can easily break the track into shorter, manageable day walks, perfect for little legs. Consider a 7.3km section like the one near Bob's Hollow,TikTok which offers rewarding views without being overly strenuous.

Focus on the diverse scenery to keep children engaged – from coastal heath to forest pockets. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities can be sparse. The sandy sections can be fun for kids to play in, but also challenging, so manage expectations and perhaps choose flatter, firmer paths for younger children. The ease of access means you can tailor the hike to your family's energy levels and interests, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable outdoor adventure. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

The Cape to Cape Track northern section is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as the track itself is free to access.Reddit You won't incur any entry fees for walking. The main costs will be transportation to the region and any food or accommodation you choose. By opting for day hikes and utilizing free parking at trailheads, you can significantly minimize expenses.

Consider packing your own lunches and snacks to avoid purchasing food at potentially higher prices in tourist areas. If you're planning a multi-day experience, look for affordable camping options or hostels in nearby towns like Margaret River or Augusta, rather than pricier hotels. Utilizing the numerous access points means you can customize your hikes to be as short or as long as you like, without needing expensive guided tours. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Terrain

The Cape to Cape Track northern section presents a varied terrain that can challenge even experienced hikers. While some sections are well-maintained with boardwalks and steps, particularly around areas like Bob's Hollow,TikTok significant portions involve walking on soft sand. This sandy terrain can be demanding, requiring extra effort and potentially slowing your pace. Reviews often describe it as 'quite sand in sections',Reddit making it a good workout. The elevation changes are moderate, with around 146m of elevation gain for a 7.3km hike, but the sand can amplify the perceived difficulty.

For those seeking a more accessible experience, the northern section does offer wheelchair-accessible paths.Reddit This inclusivity means that visitors with mobility challenges can still enjoy parts of this stunning coastal trail. It's advisable to research specific accessible routes beforehand if this is a priority. The combination of sand, occasional steps, and varied ground conditions means sturdy, supportive footwear is essential for all hikers.

When planning your hike, consider the time of year. Summer, especially February, can be extremely hot, making the sandy sections even more arduous and increasing the risk of dehydration.Reddit Spring and autumn offer more pleasant temperatures for tackling the varied terrain. Breaking the track into shorter day walks is a popular strategy to manage the distance and terrain effectively. Reddit

Seasonal Considerations and Safety

The Cape to Cape Track northern section is a year-round destination, but each season brings its own considerations, particularly regarding safety and comfort. Summer, from December to February, is characterized by high temperatures and a significant risk of bushfires. Travelers planning a February hike are warned that dehydration is a major concern, and fire is a real possibility that could necessitate quick evacuation.Reddit This makes summer a less ideal time for those sensitive to heat or concerned about fire safety.

Spring (September to November) is often considered one of the best times to visit. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, and the landscape bursts into bloom with wildflowers, offering a visually spectacular experience. Autumn (March to May) also provides excellent hiking conditions with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak spring season. Winter (June to August) can bring rain and wind, making for a more rugged experience, but also offers dramatic coastal storm views for the prepared.

Regardless of the season, always be prepared. Carry ample water, especially during warmer months.Reddit Inform someone of your hiking plans, including your intended route and expected return time. Familiarize yourself with local conditions, including weather forecasts and any fire bans. The track's many access points are a safety advantage, allowing for easier exit if needed, but it's crucial to stay aware of your surroundings and potential hazards. Reddit

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