Top Trails Along the Coral Coast
From Gorges to Coastlines
Stretching along Western Australia's sun-drenched coastline, the Coral Coast is a hiker’s paradise for trail lovers and bushwalkers, where ancient gorges meet turquoise waters and rugged landscapes meet pristine white-sand beaches. Whether you're chasing the adrenaline of a full day hike or a peaceful wander through our wildflower carpeted National Parks, the Coral Coast offers a walking experience like no other.
We’ve rounded up the top 15 trails that capture the raw and natural beauty of the Coral Coast — from the red rock gorges of Kalbarri to the pristine shores of Ningaloo Reef. Lace up your boots — adventure awaits.
1. Desert View Walk Trail – The Pinnacles Desert, Cervantes
The Desert View Walk trail is a 1.6 km loop through the Pinnacles Desert in the Nambung National Park, located just 2 hour’s north of Perth. If we could choose one word to describe this trail, it would be “otherworldly”. Wind your way through the unique rock formations that are over 25,000 years old and be wowed by the natural landscapes. Want to level up your experience? Get there nice and early for sunrise or stay until the sun sets, we can guarantee you will be bewildered by the change in the colours of the landscape as the sun sets and rises over the distinctive rock formations.
2. Yued Ponar Trail – Lesueur National Park
A more moderately challenging walk, the Yued Pondar Trail, located in Lesueur National Park is a 6km trail winding through the picturesque woodlands. The trail weaves its way through diverse landscapes along winding creek lines and up several short, steep hills to the top of Mt Peron where you are rewarded with sweeping views of the National Park with a glimpse of the Indian Ocean in the distance.
3. Turquoise Way Trail – Jurien Bay
Turquoise Way Trail is a must-do when visiting Jurien Bay, whether you choose to strap on your hiking shoes or go for a leisurely stroll, the trail is multi-purpose suited to everyone. The 14.2 kilometre (one-way) sealed track stretches along the coast from the Jurien Bay Marina to the Hill River Mouth. The name says it all, the trail hugs the spectacular coastline offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. With multiple accessible points, the Turquoise Way Trail is great for families as it passes through Dobbyn Park foreshore area that has beautiful, grassed picnic spots, gazebos, public toilets, playgrounds and a café.
4. Three Bays Walkway - Greenhead
Located in the cozy coastal town of Green Head, 3 hours drive north of Perth, the Three Bays Walkway is a 2.8km Grade 2 trail that follows the coast with stunning views over the Indian Ocean. With several lookouts with seating along the trail, pack a picnic lunch and set out for the morning.
5. Greenough River Nature Walk - Greenough
This 17km loop is a nice, flat walk trail, perfect for any fitness level. Allow at least 4 hours and make sure you pack plenty of water and snacks to get you through. Spring is the perfect time to adventure along this trail as the Wildflowers are out in full bloom, just check with the local Visitor Centre for the most recent updates on what’s blooming during Wildflower season.
6. Bigurda Trail – Kalbarri
Just south of the town of Kalbarri lies the breathing Coastal Cliffs. Here you will find a range of walk trails that provide different view points of the natural phenomena. The 8km Bigurda Trail is a highlight, hugging the coastline between Eagle Gorge and Natural Bridge, breathtaking coastal views are guaranteed on this trail. From July – November you may even be fortunate enough to witness migrating Humpback Whales as they make their way along Humpback Highway.
7. Nature’s Window Walk Trail – Kalbarri
Get your camera ready for the iconic Nature’s Window photo, this walk trail is an absolute must when visiting Kalbarri. The moderate 800m walk starts down a flight of stairs from the lookout at the carpark down to Nature’s Window, a wind-eroded opening in the layered sandstone. Don’t be fooled by the short distance, this can be a tricky walk in the warmer months so definitely pack your water. Plan ahead and visit and sunrise or sunset to see the Murchison River perfectly framed by Nature’s Window at its absolute best with the sun offering the perfect lighting.
8. The Loop Walk – Kalbarri
Three words we would use to sum up The Loop Walk, challenging yet spectacular. This one is for the avid hikers and is graded as a Class 4 hike, the 8km Loop Walk takes you along the edge of the cliff, with views across the Murchison River, before working its way down to the riverbank in Kalbarri National Park. Along the way you will be wowed by the erosive power of the river that has created magnificent gorges and stunning rock formations. Allow for a minimum of 3-4 hours and be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks.
9. Z-Bend River Trail – Kalbarri
Considered one of the most picturesque spots in Kalbarri National Park, the Z-Bend River Trail gets its name from the sharp twists carved by the Murchison River. It's an ideal route for keen hikers, offering both a dramatic lookout view and the option to descend into the gorge on a one-hour hike for a closer experience.
10. Nicholson Point Walk Trail – Shark Bay
An absolute must for avid bird watchers and nature seekers alike, The Nicholson Point Walk Trail meanders from the town of Denham through shrubland to Little Lagoon. Generally considered an easy route, this 5km trail leads you to the stunning Little Lagoon, a natural attraction known for its calm, clear, shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming, fishing, and various water sports.
11. Wanamalu Trail – Francois Peron National Park, Shark Bay
If you’re chasing the ultimate Coral Coast experience where the read earth meets the turquoise sea, then this one is for you! Located between Skipjack Point and Cape Peron within Francois Peron National Park, the 3.6km return Wanamalu Trail offers excellent views where the striking red cliffs collide with the blue hues of the ocean. Note, you will require a high clearance 4WD with low range capability to access Francois Peron National Park so plan ahead!
12. One Mile Jetty Heritage Walk - Carnarvon
Stopping in Carnarvon on your Coral Coast Highway adventure? Add this one to your must-do list. The One Mile Jetty Heritage Walk is a historic landmark that offers a scenic and educational walking experience. This walking trail links the Foot Bridge at Fascine Town Beach to the Carnarvon Heritage Precinct. Along the trail, you’ll encounter distinctive flora and fauna native to the region.
13. River Walking Trail – Wooramel River Retreat
Nothing beats waking up at sunrise at one of Coral Coast’s favourite station stays, Wooramel River Retreat, then setting out on a leisurely river stroll followed by a morning coffee. Wooramel River Retreat is an absolute must when visiting the region, their 5km River Walking Trail is the ideal morning activity, walk the riverbank lined with ancient gum trees, take in the sounds of the birdlife and fresh country air whilst soaking in the beautiful landscapes of the station.
14. Mandu Mandu Gorge, Cape Range National Park - Exmouth
If you have a hiking bucket list, we can guarantee this one is on it! Located in Cape Range National Park in Exmouth, Mandu Mandu Gorge Walk is something truly spectacular. The 3km loop trail leads along the rim of the gorge as you’re surrounded by vibrant red cliffs, before descending into the gorge itself. Some level of fitness is required and we recommend going at the start of the day before it warms up.
15. Badjirrajirra Loop Walk – Cape Range National Park, Exmouth
The Badjirrajirra Loop Trail starts at Thomas Carter Lookout, located off Charles Knife Road. This 8 km Class 4 trail is rugged in parts and suited to those with moderate to high fitness levels. As you weave your way through the rocky gullies and narrow gorges, you will be treated to sweeping scenic views of Shothole Canyon and Exmouth Gulf along the way.
