The Nambung National Park, home to the world famous Pinnacles, is the region’s major natural attraction.The park is situated 17 kilometres south-east of Cervantes and 250 kilometres north of Perth and covers an area of 17,487 hectares.It has an extensive list of resident bird life and native fauna.
Over 190,000 people visit the area annually. A visit to the Pinnacles is a must. Here are statuesque limestone pillars up to three metres high, rising out of the sand like ancient ruins. These most unusual wind-carved edifices were formed in the sand 25,000 to 30,000 years ago after the sea receded and deposits of sea shells remained behind. Over time the elements removed the surrounding sand, leaving the pillars isolated and open to wind degradation.
Access to the National Park and to the Pinnacles for conventional-drive vehicles is by road south from Cervantes. The tracks leading north from Lancelin contain patches of deep sand in some sections and are therefore recommended for 4-wheel drive vehicles only. Access to the Pinnacles area itself is by a 100 metre walking trail from the car park.
A scenic drive is also available for light vehicles but they must remain on the marked track. The Little Painted Dessert and an unusual white dune area can also be viewed from the Pinnacles Lookout. These are a pleasurable, entertaining walk of four to five kilometres for the more adventurous but if planning an extended walk of this kind, please advise the ranger.
Hats, bottled water and sturdy footwear are essential. No camping is allowed in the park but barbecue facilities, toilets, etc. are available. Please note: there is no available drinking water.
The Pinnacles, near Cervantes, should be your first stop. These bizarre limestone pillars, at their best when the sun is low, rise out of yellow quartz sand in Nambung National Park. They make an iconic photo opportunity.
See the Department of Environment and Conservation's Nature Base Wesite for more information.
