Bibbulmun Track
A BASE TO EXPLORE
Quick FActs
know before you go
The Bibbulmun Track is signposted with yellow triangular markers symbolising the Waugal, the rainbow serpent of the Aboriginal Dreaming. These important trail markers are spaced up to 500m apart, becoming more frequent when there is an intersection or turn in the Track.
The best times to walk the Bibbulmun Track are spring through autumn. As a general rule, walking in the summer months is not recommended. In particular, the risk of bush fire in the Northern section is great and it is often too hot to be a pleasant experience. For a safe and enjoyable walk, always plan ahead. For example, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, take adequate food and water and be sure to check the weather and latest Track Conditions.
In Dwellingup, the Track follows the Murray River through the picturesque valley. Walkers enjoy a unique experience among the beautiful jarrah and marri forests with expansive views over undulating farmland. There's a choice of walks along the Track in Dwellingup. Start with a day walk and picnic at a typical Bibbulmun Track Campsite. Or, stroll along the banks of the Murray River or experience an overnight camping adventure. The campsites are equipped with a rustic timber sleeping shelter, pit toilet, rainwater tank and tent sites.
Access Points In Dwellingup
Walkers can join the Bibbulmun Track in both north and south directions from the centre of Dwellingup. Helpful directions and Track Log Books are available at the Dwellingup Trails & Visitor Centre.
If you are heading north, vehicle access to join the walking track is at Inglehope Rail Crossing, 10kms east of Dwellingup.
If you are heading south, vehicle access to join the walking track is at Nanga Road and River Road. Please note, vehicles are not permitted on all other roads as they are within a forest disease risk area.
Bibbulmun Name Origins
The Bibbulmun were a sub-group of the Nyungar or Nyoongar people, whose country extended for many hundreds of square miles, comprising the triangle of land from what is now Jurien Bay to Esperance. These people lived in the forests near to rivers and water holes, sharing them with birds, animals and reptiles that they believed to be their elders and which became, with the passing of the centuries, their ancestor gods. From this deep reverence for nature, the Aborigines lived in harmony with the land and its creatures.
When a name was being sought for a proposed long distance track in the south-west many options were considered. Kirup forester Len Talbot proposed the Track be named to recognise the Bibbulmun. It was known that the Bibbulmun people walked long distances through the forests for ceremonial gatherings, and although those precise travel routes were unknown, the name was adopted as being unique and appropriate for a trail on which it was hoped walkers would adopt the same feeling of oneness with nature of those people of long ago.
In case of Emergencies
For all emergencies, contact emergency services on 000. Importantly, do not rely on your mobile phone in the event of getting lost or injured as coverage is unreliable on the Bibbulmun Track. The
Department of Parks and Wildlife recommends walkers carry a personal locator beacon or similar. Also, remember to fill in the campsite log books and track town log books like the one at Dwellingup Trails & Visitor Centre as they may be useful in a search and rescue situation.
