Castle Rock Sky Walk
1 / 10

Porongurup National Park

4.8
·655 reviews·Porongurup, Australia

Ancient granite domes with unique suspended walkways and challenging trails offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Castle Rock Sky Walk

Porongurup National Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ancient granite domes with unique suspended walkways and challenging trails offering breathtaking panoramic views.

4.8
(655 reviews)

"The Granite Skywalk offers incredible views, but the ladder and skywalk are not for the faint-hearted!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack plenty of water! 💧

Essential for hikes, especially longer ones. Stay hydrated on the trails.

Wear sturdy walking shoes 👟

Crucial for rock scrambling and inclines. Good grip is key!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Granite Skywalk

Granite Skywalk

Castle Rock

A unique suspended walkway spiraling around a granite rock, offering epic panoramic views.

Castle Rock Walk

Castle Rock Walk

Castle Rock

A rewarding 4.4km return hike with impressive Karri trees and a unique Balancing Rock.

Devil's Slide Trail

Devil's Slide Trail

Western side of the park

A challenging yet rewarding hike with stunning views, rivalling those from the Granite Skywalk.

Nancy's Peak Trail

Nancy's Peak Trail

Western side of the park

A longer, more exposed trail offering spectacular vistas for those seeking a greater challenge.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for the Granite Skywalk

The Granite Skywalk offers breathtaking views, but the climb can be challenging. Start early to avoid the midday sun and potential crowds. Consider visiting on a weekday for a more peaceful experience. Remember to check weather conditions, as the trails can become slippery when wet.

Park Entry and What to Pack

Entry to Porongurup National Park is AUD $17 per vehicle. Pack plenty of water, especially for longer hikes like Nancy's Peak. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for the rock scrambling and inclines. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning panoramic views!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Wineries open for tastings
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If you’re heading to Albany, you definitely can’t miss this unique hike in Porongurup National Park. The summit features a suspended walkway that spirals around the granite rock and requires some rock scrambling and climbing a 7m enclosed ladder in order to reach the top. Once you’re above the trees you’ll be rewarded with some epic views of the Porongurups, Stirling Ranges, Mount Manypeaks & surr...
@_wherestheway
62.9K likes • 1.6M views

Pack plenty of water! 💧

Essential for hikes, especially longer ones. Stay hydrated on the trails. InstagramReddit

Wear sturdy walking shoes 👟

Crucial for rock scrambling and inclines. Good grip is key! InstagramReddit

Nancy Peak, Porongurup National Park A 5.5km, grade 4 hike not far from the Porongurup Range Tourist Park. Worth taking plenty of water and starting in the cooler part of the morning. Take a mate or even your father in law. @wowhoju
printsbytoni
69 likes • 1.5K views
Everything you need to know ⬇️ Don’t forget to save for later 🥰 If you’re heading to Albany, you definitely can’t miss this unique hike in Porongurup National Park. The summit features a suspended walkway that spirals around the granite rock and requires some rock scrambling and climbing a 7m enclosed ladder in order to reach the top. Once you’re above the trees you’ll be rewarded with some epic...
_wherestheway
8.9K likes • 416.7K views

Start your hike early ☀️

Beat the heat and enjoy fewer crowds on popular trails like the Granite Skywalk. Instagram+1

Check weather conditions ☁️

Trails can be slippery when wet. Be prepared for changing weather. Reddit

📍Castle Rock, WA Castle Rock is located in Porongurup National Park. It is consistently uphill, but the hike itself is not too difficult and the path is well-navigated. There is lots of parking spots and rest areas, barbecue area, and bathroom facilities (compost), so it is good for taking a break and eating lunch after the hike. You will see the huge balancing rock when you almost reach the to...
hojucaravan
259 likes • 771 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack plenty of water! 💧

Essential for hikes, especially longer ones. Stay hydrated on the trails. InstagramReddit

Wear sturdy walking shoes 👟

Crucial for rock scrambling and inclines. Good grip is key! InstagramReddit

Start your hike early ☀️

Beat the heat and enjoy fewer crowds on popular trails like the Granite Skywalk. Instagram+1

Check weather conditions ☁️

Trails can be slippery when wet. Be prepared for changing weather. Reddit

Don't miss the wineries 🍷

Many are open on weekends, perfect for a post-hike treat. Reddit

Save this for later! 📌

Many creators share essential tips for your visit. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(655 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unforgettable experience of the Granite Skywalk, praising its unique construction and breathtaking panoramic views. The park offers rewarding hikes for various fitness levels, with Devil's Slide and Nancy's Peak providing more challenging options. While the park entry fee is noted, the stunning scenery and natural beauty are considered well worth the visit.

"It's a good walk up to the granite skywalk. Beautiful views are amazing how they did this a walkway on the side of a huge granite boulder need to be reasonably fit"

Kerry W

"The Porongurup National Park is situated around 50 km north of Albany and makes for a fun day of hiking through mature Karri tree forests and up mountain sides dotted with huge ancient granite boulders. Entry is AUD$17 per standard vehicle or with a Park Pass.

We visited two sections on the NP on the same day, starting early at the Castle Rock section in the east. From the Castle Rock carpark, there is a popular and fairly easy trail leading up to the Granite SkyWalk platform. Some impressive Karri trees on this trail, a unique Balancing Rock and then the skywalk platform which is free to access for panoramic views of the forests below and landscapes in the distance.

We then made way to the western side of the NP later in the morning and completed the Devil's Slide trail from The Tree In The Rock carpark. This was a challenging yet very rewarding hike with stunning views easily rivalling those at Granite SkyWalk. Liked the look of the Nancy's Peak trail as well and would aim to tackle this one next time around. These trails require more time, fitness, proper walking shoes and are more exposed to the elements.

After completing our morning hikes, we stopped by a couple of the wineries that had open Cellar Doors back on Castle Rock Road to pick up a couple bottles of wine to enjoy at our apartment rental back in Albany. This completed a very rewarding day out hiking in Porongurup NP, a great day trip option for those staying in Albany or within convenient driving range of the Park."

Brad

"There's lots to do and see in the region.
We spent 3 nights here .
A good tip the wineries are more or less open only on the weekends."

Philip Smith

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Unique Granite Skywalk
Rewarding hiking trails

What People Dislike

Can be challenging for some
Park entry fee

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Porongurup National Park is located about 40 minutes north of Albany. The drive is straightforward and well-signposted. Many visitors use their own vehicles, as public transport options are limited. Instagram

Yes, Porongurup National Park is approximately a 4.5-hour drive south of Perth, making it a feasible day trip or a stop on a longer road trip. Instagram

Having your own vehicle is highly recommended for exploring Porongurup National Park, as it allows you to easily access different trailheads and picnic areas. Instagram

Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services operating within Porongurup National Park. Visitors typically rely on their own transport. TikTok

While cycling is not permitted on the walking trails, there may be designated roads within or leading to the park where cycling is allowed. Always check local signage for specific restrictions. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Porongurup National Park is AUD $17 per standard vehicle. Alternatively, you can use a valid Parks and Wildlife Service WA Park Pass. InstagramReddit

No, tickets are not required for the Granite Skywalk itself. Entry to the park is per vehicle, and the Skywalk is free to access once inside. Instagram+1

Porongurup National Park is generally open year-round from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Parks and Wildlife Service WA website for any temporary closures or alerts. TikTok

The Granite Skywalk is included with your park entry fee. There are no additional charges to access the skywalk platform. Instagram+1

Yes, if you have a valid Parks and Wildlife Service WA Park Pass, it can be used for entry into Porongurup National Park. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The Granite Skywalk is a unique suspended walkway that spirals around a granite rock, offering 360-degree panoramic views. It involves some rock scrambling and a ladder to reach the top. TikTokInstagram+1

The Castle Rock Walk trail is approximately 4.4km return. The hike is consistently uphill on the way up to Castle Rock. Instagram+1

The hike to the Granite Skywalk is considered moderately challenging due to the inclines and rock scrambling at the end. It's not recommended for those with a fear of heights or who are not reasonably fit. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, the park offers other trails like Devil's Slide and Nancy's Peak, which are more challenging but offer stunning views. Reddit

Castle Rock has parking spots, rest areas, a barbecue area, and compost toilet facilities, making it a good spot for a break or lunch. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or cafes within Porongurup National Park itself. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for picnics. Instagram

You can find dining options in nearby towns like Albany or along Castle Rock Road, where some wineries offer cellar door experiences. Reddit

Yes, there are picnic areas available within the park, including at Castle Rock, where you can enjoy your own food. Instagram

Yes, barbecue facilities are available at Castle Rock, providing a great spot for a picnic lunch. Instagram

Wineries near Porongurup National Park are often open on weekends. It's advisable to check their individual opening hours before visiting. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Granite Skywalk offers incredible panoramic views, especially at sunset. The Balancing Rock is also a unique photographic subject. Instagram+2

Yes, many visitors find the sunset views from the Granite Skywalk to be exceptionally beautiful and memorable. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check with the Parks and Wildlife Service WA for current drone policies before flying. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes from the Skywalk. A sturdy tripod can be useful for sunset shots. Instagram

The summit of Castle Rock via the Granite Skywalk provides the most iconic viewpoints. Devil's Slide and Nancy's Peak also offer stunning photographic opportunities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Porongurup National Park can be a fun outing for families, though some hikes require careful consideration. The Castle Rock Walk to the Granite Skywalk is manageable for older children who are reasonably fit and not afraid of heights. The Balancing Rock offers a good spot for a break and photos. InstagramReddit Ensure children have sturdy shoes and plenty of water. Instagram+1

For younger children or those less keen on strenuous climbs, exploring the picnic areas at Castle Rock and enjoying the mature Karri tree forests can be a pleasant experience. The park's natural beauty and the unique rock formations provide an engaging environment for kids to explore. Always supervise children closely, especially near rock edges and the Skywalk. TikTok

⛰️ Adventure Seekers

For those craving a physical challenge, Porongurup National Park delivers. The Granite Skywalk itself, with its ladder and rock scrambling, offers an adrenaline rush. TikTokInstagram Beyond that, the Devil's Slide and Nancy's Peak trails present more demanding ascents with significant elevation gains and rugged terrain, rewarding you with spectacular, unobstructed views. Reddit These hikes are perfect for experienced trekkers looking to push their limits and experience the raw beauty of the region. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers

Porongurup National Park is a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The Granite Skywalk at sunset provides an iconic backdrop for stunning landscape photography, capturing the vastness of the Great Southern region. Instagram+1 The unique Balancing Rock is another popular subject. Instagram Beyond the Skywalk, the park is a biodiversity hotspot, offering opportunities to photograph unique flora and fauna. Instagram The mature Karri forests and ancient granite domes create a dramatic and picturesque environment. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Granite Skywalk Experience

The Granite Skywalk at Castle Rock is the undisputed star of Porongurup National Park. This architectural marvel is a suspended walkway that spirals around the granite dome, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. Reaching the top involves a combination of a well-maintained trail, some rock scrambling, and a memorable climb up a 7-meter enclosed ladder. TikTokInstagram+1 The effort is rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views that stretch across rolling farmland, ancient granite ranges, and distant peaks. Instagram It's an experience that many describe as unforgettable, though it's not for the faint-hearted due to the heights involved. Instagram

Many visitors recommend timing your visit to coincide with sunset for an even more magical experience. Instagram The golden hour light casts a warm glow over the landscape, making the panoramic vistas even more spectacular. However, be prepared for the climb back down in fading light and ensure you have adequate lighting if you stay past dusk. The trail itself is part of the Castle Rock Walk, a 4.4km return journey that also features impressive Karri trees and a unique Balancing Rock, which serves as a good resting point. Instagram+1

Key Takeaways for the Granite Skywalk:
* Challenge: Involves rock scrambling and a ladder climb.
* Reward: Unparalleled panoramic views.
* Best Time: Sunset for stunning light, but be mindful of descent.
* Trail: Part of the 4.4km Castle Rock Walk.

Exploring Other Trails in Porongurup National Park

While the Granite Skywalk is a major draw, Porongurup National Park offers a variety of other hiking experiences for different fitness levels. The Devil's Slide trail on the western side of the park is a challenging yet highly rewarding option. It provides stunning views that rival those from the Granite Skywalk, offering a more rugged and exposed hiking experience. Reddit

For those seeking a longer and more strenuous adventure, the Nancy's Peak trail is recommended. This hike is known for its challenging terrain and exposure to the elements, but the vistas from the summit are well worth the effort. Reddit These trails require good fitness, proper walking shoes, and adequate preparation, including plenty of water. InstagramReddit

Trail Highlights:
* Devil's Slide: Challenging, rewarding views.
* Nancy's Peak: Longer, more exposed, spectacular vistas.
* Preparation: Essential for these more demanding trails.

Park Entry and Visitor Amenities

To access the natural beauty of Porongurup National Park, a vehicle entry fee of AUD $17 applies. This fee contributes to the park's upkeep and conservation efforts. Instagram Alternatively, visitors with a valid Parks and Wildlife Service WA Park Pass can enter without additional charge. Reddit The park is equipped with several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. At Castle Rock, you'll find ample parking, designated rest areas, barbecue facilities, and compost toilet facilities, making it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch after a hike. Instagram

While there are no cafes or restaurants within the park, the nearby Castle Rock Road is dotted with wineries that often open their cellar doors, particularly on weekends. Reddit This offers a pleasant opportunity to sample local produce and relax after exploring the trails. It's always advisable to bring your own food and plenty of water, especially if you plan on undertaking longer walks like Nancy's Peak or Devil's Slide. Instagram+1

Visitor Amenities:
* Entry Fee: AUD $17 per vehicle or Park Pass.
* Picnic Areas: Available, including at Castle Rock.
* Facilities: Barbecues and toilets at Castle Rock.
* Nearby: Wineries with cellar doors.

You may also like