Stirling Range National Park Information

Stirling Range National Park Information

Named after the first Governor of Western Australia, Captain James Stirling, this fine park covers an area nearing 115,744 hectares (286,000 acres). Some of the peaks rise to 991m (3,250 feet) above the surrounding plain and are especially picturesque when shrouded in mists. You may even be lucky enough to catch the sight of the hills covered with a light fall of snow in mid-winter.

Bluff Knoll, the highest peak in the Stirling Range, reaches 1,073m above sea level. Because of its height and proximity to the south coast, the climate in the range differs from that of the surrounding district. As a result, a great variety of wildflowers thrive here. Over 1,000 species of flowering plants occur naturally in the range, and of these 60 are endemic.

Amongst the most beautiful and unusual of the plants in the area are the Darwinias, or Mountain Bells. Ten species of Mountain Bells have been identified in the park, only one of which is grown outside the Stirling Range. Mountain Bells are usually found above the 300m contour level on acid sandy clay soil. Each species occur in a well-defined area, either on one particular peak, or in the valleys between them.

In spring the park is vibrant with wildflowers in all their rainbow hues. Look out for the Scarlet Stirling Banksia, Smokebush and many varieties of orchids.

Grey kangaroos and black gloved wallabies are common in the park. Parrots and emus are seen in large numbers with other bird life increasing when flowers are blooming.

Stirling Range Retreat on Chester Pass Road, offers accommodation to suit all budgets, includes self contained two bedroom chalets, one room cabins, hostel rooms, powered sites and bush camp sites.

Camping is permitted at Moingup Springs only. Permits should be obtained from the Ranger. Outside the park, the Stirling Range Caravan Park on Chester Pass Road provides full facilities.

The range offers some magnificent climbs of which Bluff Knoll , the third highest peak in Western Australia, is the most popular. It is easy to imagine many human shapes in the peaks. Look for the 'sleeping beauty' as you travel along Chester Pass road and along Woogenilup road and from the Porongurups.

Listed below are the main peaks in the range and an indication of the time it takes to climb them;

Bluff Knoll - 1,073m (3,520 feet). Well worth the steep climb to the top. You will feel as though you are on top of the world. Allow 3-4 hours return. Camping and caravan park at turn off from Chester Pass road. Toilets and picnic facilities at the parking area.

Toolbrunup - 1,052m (3,450 feet). Magnificent 360 degree views. 4-5 hours return picnic facilities at parking area - there is an overnight camping and caravan park at Moingup Spring near turn off.

Mt trio - 857m (2,810 feet). Allow 2 hours return. Picnic area.

Ellen peak - 1012m (3,320 feet). This long hard climb is for stalwarts. Approach from the eastern or northern end of the park. Allow up to 8 hours return.

Mondurup - 817m (2,680 feet). Allow 3 hours from Stirling Ranges drive.

Permission is required from the ranger to partake in rock climbing activities.

The ideal time to visit is late spring and early summer (October to December) when days are beginning to warm up and the wildflowers are at their best.

Winter between June and August is cold and wet. Visitors should come prepared. Even in spring the weather can be unpredictable, particularly higher in the Rangers. Sudden cold changes can cause the temperature to drop and rain or hail to set in. The Stirling's are one of few places in Western Australia where snow occasionally falls.

The weather can change quickly on the mountain peaks. Be prepared. Do not try hazardous trips unless the rangers are informed. There are registration posts at two rangers' residences.

For further information check out the display at ranger's residence - Turnoff to Toolbrunup road near Moingup Springs.

Postal Address:

C/o Post Office

Amelup via Borden 6338

Telephone: 08 9827 9230 or 08 9827 9278

Department of Conservation & Land Management (CALM)

50 Hayman Road

Como WA 6152

Telephone: 08 9367 0333

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