Gloucester Tree
A colossal 53m Karri tree, once a vital fire lookout, now a historical landmark in Pemberton's majestic forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Anticipated reopening for climbing
Gloucester Tree
Best Time
Anticipated reopening for climbing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal 53m Karri tree, once a vital fire lookout, now a historical landmark in Pemberton's majestic forest.
"Even without the climb, it’s a great spot to stop, take a walk, and soak in the natural beauty."
Check Climbing Status
Confirm if the Gloucester Tree is open for climbing before your visit. Reopening expected late 2025.
National Park Pass
Consider an annual pass for cost savings if visiting multiple WA national parks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gloucester Tree
Gloucester National Park
A towering 53-meter Karri tree, once a fire lookout, now a historical landmark.
Karri Forest Canopy Views
Top of the Gloucester Tree (when open)
Panoramic vistas of the vast, majestic Karri forest stretching to the horizon.
Forest Arboretum Walk
Near Gloucester Tree
A peaceful 1km stroll through the forest, showcasing the grandeur of the Karri trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climbing Status Update
Park Entry & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Climbing Status
Confirm if the Gloucester Tree is open for climbing before your visit. Reopening expected late 2025.
National Park Pass
Consider an annual pass for cost savings if visiting multiple WA national parks.
Drone Photography
Record the tree with a drone if climbing isn't possible.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for navigating the forest walks and for climbing if available. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Climbing Status
Confirm if the Gloucester Tree is open for climbing before your visit. Reopening expected late 2025.
National Park Pass
Consider an annual pass for cost savings if visiting multiple WA national parks.
Drone Photography
Record the tree with a drone if climbing isn't possible.
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for navigating the forest walks and for climbing if available. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Gloucester Tree a fascinating historical site and a testament to WA's past. While the inability to climb is a disappointment for many, the majestic Karri forest and peaceful walks still offer a rewarding experience. The anticipation for its reopening in late 2025 is palpable.
"Great place / zipline Park is fantastic. Friendly people. We walked to the Gloucester Tree after our lunch at Chefingo's @The Forest Lodge Resort. It's only 1 k walk through the Forest Aboritum. We enjoyed the place and had great food at Chefingo's."
Ingo Maass
"The Gloucester Tree is a fascinating place to visit and a big part of WA’s history. I came here early in 2021 when it was still open for climbing — trying to going up that tall karri tree was an unforgettable and slightly nerve-wracking experience!
By mid-2023 it was under maintenance when I came to visit, and now it’s no longer safe to climb. Still, walking around the area is still impressive, surrounded by tall karri trees that make the forest feel so peaceful and majestic. Even without the climb, it’s a great spot to stop, take a walk, and soak in the natural beauty.
*photos from 2021"
Titian Ratu
"Would love to climb but it’s close. I however record it with my drone. Reopen in December 2025"
Xin Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gloucester Tree is located in Gloucester National Park, just 3km from Pemberton, Western Australia. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage from the main road.
Yes, there is parking available at the Gloucester Tree site, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While possible, it's a long day trip from Perth (approx. 3.5-4 hours one way). Many visitors choose to stay overnight in Pemberton to fully enjoy the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a national park entry fee for Gloucester National Park. If you have an annual WA National Parks Pass, it covers your entry.
The Gloucester Tree is currently closed for climbing due to safety assessments. Reopening is anticipated for late 2025.
Gloucester National Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific facilities or access points may have different hours. It's best to check with Parks and Wildlife Service WA for the most current information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
As of recent information, the Gloucester Tree is no longer safe to climb and is closed to the public for this activity. Reopening for climbing is expected around late 2025.
Even without climbing, you can enjoy the impressive height of the tree, walk through the surrounding forest arboretum, and learn about its history as a fire lookout.
The Gloucester Tree stands at an impressive 53 meters (approximately 174 feet) tall.
Pemberton is known for its giant Karri trees. The Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree is another notable, taller tree that has historically been open for climbing, though its status should also be verified.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the immense scale of the tree from the base, or use a drone to get aerial shots of the canopy and surrounding forest. The forest walks also offer beautiful natural light.
Drone photography is permitted in many national parks, but it's always advisable to check the specific regulations with Parks and Wildlife Service WA to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the serene forest setting. Remember to check the park's facilities and any specific safety guidelines for children before your visit. The sheer scale of the trees is often awe-inspiring for younger visitors, even from ground level.
🌳 Nature Enthusiasts
Even with the climbing closure, the historical significance of the tree as a former fire lookout adds another layer of interest. Consider bringing binoculars to spot birdlife in the canopy and learn about the vital role these forests play in Western Australia's environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Fire Lookout Trees
While the practice of using these trees as lookouts has largely been replaced by modern technology, they remain a significant part of the region's heritage. The Gloucester Tree was first used as a lookout in 1947 and was opened to the public for climbing in the early 1960s, allowing visitors to experience the thrill and the incredible views from its summit.
Today, even though climbing is restricted for safety, the trees stand as a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of past forest rangers. Walking around the base of these colossal trees offers a profound sense of their historical importance and the challenging conditions faced by those who worked in them.
Climbing the Karri Giants: Past and Future
+1However, safety concerns have led to the closure of the tree for climbing. The pegs have deteriorated over time, and the risk of falls has increased. This decision, while disappointing for thrill-seekers, prioritizes visitor safety.
The reopening of the Gloucester Tree for climbing is anticipated for late 2025, following extensive safety assessments and potential upgrades. Until then, visitors can still appreciate the tree's immense scale from the ground and enjoy the peaceful forest walks. The Pemberton region is renowned for its magnificent Karri forests, and even without the climb, the natural beauty and historical significance of the Gloucester Tree make it a worthwhile stop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit