Like many in 2021, our decision to hike the Bibbulmun Track was driven by COVID. With our Pacific Crest Trail plans pushed back, we decided to travel to WA in September to visit family and walk the Bibb (as well as the Cape to Cape and Stirling Ranges). At the time we didn’t know very much about the trail, simply that it was a long walk in Australia we hadn’t done. Due to the lack of mountains, we assumed the Bibb was just a walk in the bush and didn’t expect anything special.
The main attraction for us was the lack of planning required. With the intention to resupply in towns along the way, our planning solely consisted of picking our gear, loading up the GPX file and maps on our phones, and getting a lift to the start.
2021 was a strange year for the Bibb. With international borders still closed, the track was far busier than in previous years. There was also above average rainfall (thanks La Niña), on top of colder conditions and significant track damage from winter storms.
Despite these surprises, we both thoroughly enjoyed the walk far beyond our expectations. The main highlights were the wildflowers and the variety of ecosystems the track passed through. We were also surprised at how well maintained the track was, especially in the northern half where there was less storm damage. It’s clear the track volunteers are proud of the trail and put in lots of effort to maintain it.
With shelters approximately every 20km, few navigational issues, simple resupply, and relatively mild terrain, the Bibbulmun offers a good thru hiking experience without the head aches involved with less established trails (like the Greater Patagonia Trail we hiked in 2019). It is a track we both look forward to walking again.
See our trip report and favourite photos for each section below!
One Response
We are planning to start the Bibbulmun Track in late August. I noticed you used Nike Pegasus Trail 5’s and liked them. I have some in my collection at the moment and like them too but never thought of them for this walk. I noticed the new ACG version is out and thought it ‘might’ be even better given I plan on wearing my long Sea to Summit gaiters for some of the track and looking online there appears to be a gap in the tread that would allow for for the gaiter’s strap under the shoe. My only concern is whether the gaiter strap would wear the exposed midsole foam. Alternatively, I could get another pair of the Pegasus Trail 5s while they are still available. The only other shoe that might be suitable is the Salomon Ultra Glide 4. Hoka Speedboat 7s are popular but the gaiter strap would clash with the tread. By the way, I really enjoyed your blog.
Cheers,
Steve