Castle Rock Granite Skywalk Review 2024
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve heard about the awe-inspiring Castle Rock Granite Skywalk and are eager to know more. Well, you’ve come to the right place! As a local who’s been lucky enough to hike this trail, I can’t wait to share all the insider tips and details to make your visit to the Skywalk memorable.
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Castle Rock Granite Skywalk Summary
📍 Location: Porongurup National Park
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Spring & Autumn
💵 Cost: Standard National Park Fees
⛔️ Prohibited: No Dogs
⏳4.7 km return, 1 to 3 hours
⏰ 24 hours
🥾 Grade 5
What is the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk?
The Granite Skywalk is a popular hiking trail and viewing platform located at Castle Rock, a natural granite outcrop. At the top, it has breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail includes a suspended bridge extending out from the rock, providing an exhilarating experience for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Where is the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk?
Castle Rock is in the Porongurup Range, about 40 kilometres (25 miles) north-east of Albany, making it an ideal day trip from Albany. The Porongurup Range is known for its ancient granite peaks and scenic hiking trails. Castle Rock is one of the prominent peaks in this range.
It’s possible to hike Castle Rock on your road trip from Perth to Albany or from Albany to Esperance.
How Long is the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk Hike?
The hike is 4.7 kilometres return (about 2.9 miles).
What is the Difficulty Level of the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk Hike?
The hike is rated as Grade 5, meaning hikers should be experienced and skilled in navigating and emergency first aid.
To get to the upper lookout, you need to scramble over and under huge granite boulders and ascend an enclosed 6m ladder. The rocks are slippery when wet and can be sharp, causing serious scrapes.
You should not fear heights as the walkway is grated, and you can see the ground below.
How Long Does the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk Hike Take?
The duration of the hike will vary depending on your fitness level and how much time you spend at the Skywalk. It takes about 1 to 3 hours to complete the round trip.
Castle Rock Granite Skywalk Hike Accessibility
The hike is doable for children and seniors with high fitness levels but may be more challenging for young children. Always assess your group’s abilities before attempting the hike.
Are there any Entrance Fees to Access Castle Rock?
Access to Castle Rock is currently:
- Standard vehicle(12 or fewer occupants) A$15 (A$8 concession)
- Large vehicle(more than 12 occupants) A$7 per person (A$2.50 concession)
- Motorcycle A$8
What Should I Bring for the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk Hike?
Hikers are advised to bring the following essentials:
- Ample water to stay hydrated (at least 2 litres)
- Comfortable and sturdy footwear with a good grip
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for sun protection
- Emergency first aid kit
- Camera/phone
- Snacks
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof jacket (check weather predictions)
- A fully charged mobile phone for emergencies (although reception may be limited in some areas)
Is there any Wildlife to Watch Out for?
Porongurup National Park is home to various wildlife species. While encounters with dangerous animals are rare, you must be cautious and keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter. Look out for snakes, especially in warmer months, and respect the animals’ natural habitat.
Are There Any Restrictions or Safety Tips?
Follow the trail markers and signs, and stay on designated paths to protect the fragile ecosystem. Be cautious on the Skywalk platform and keep a safe distance from the edges. The Skywalk may be closed in adverse weather conditions, so check for any closures before your visit.
Tell someone where you are and your plans.
What is the Best Time to Hike the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk?
The best time to hike is during the cooler months, from late autumn to early spring (April to October), when the weather suits outdoor activities.
Facilities at Castle Rock Picnic Area
- Accessible parking
- BBQs & picnic area
- Accessible toilets
- Shaded area
Our Experience
So, let me tell you about the amazing adventure we had with our teenagers in Porongurup National Park.
The trail started gently, weaving through the forest. Stone steps and granite slabs make the ascend easier and provide a resting spot if needed.
On the way, we saw The Balancing Rock, a massive round granite boulder just chilling on another rounded rock. It’s like nature’s game of Jenga, and we couldn’t help but wonder how long it’s been there, defying gravity.
Then we reached what we came to see – the Granite Skywalk. There are two lookouts – the lower one is easy to reach, but we were feeling adventurous, so we decided to tackle the upper lookout.
Getting there wasn’t a walk in the park, though. We scrambled over and under huge rocks, and there was this 6-metre ladder that we had to conquer. But when we finally made it to the top, it was incredible. Porongurup National Park stretched out below us, with farmland rolling all the way to Albany’s southern coast. Look north, and you’d see the Stirling Ranges doing their majestic thing.
Porongurup had treated us to an adventure we’d never forget – the thrill of Castle Rock, the laughs we shared, and the reminder that our state is one heck of a beautiful place.
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