Bibbulmun Track Trip Report
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!
