Field Guide
National Parks
RUGGED MOUNTAINS AND ANCIENT RAINFORESTS MAKE THE WEST COAST ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S LAST TRUE WILDERNESS FRONTIERS.
Yet, despite the remoteness, it’s easy and safe for people to enjoy. While you’re on the West Coast you’ll never be far from a national park (which also just happen to be a World Heritage Area).
There are loads of ways to experience our national parks, but remember, a Parks Pass is needed. Visiting our parks is a great way to escape convenience and excess. Take the time to look at the plants, animals, lakes, streams and plants.
Donaghy's Hill Lookout - photo courtesy Jess Bonde
Breathe in the fresh air.
Even those who aren’t outdoorsy can take in the beauty of the national parks – driving into the West Coast from the South, you’ll be on the Lyell Highway. Here the views out the car window are breathtaking and there’s short walks and picnic facilities along the way.
When visiting our wilderness and remote areas please be considerate of both the environment and other users. Respect wildlife. Dispose of all waste properly.
Despite being in a rainforest the West Coast is often threatened by bushfires. Please use a fuel stove rather than a campfire. This is one instance where “making your own path” isn’t recommended.
We want to ensure our environment remains untouched and in pristine conditions for future generations.
A tip for cyclists – bikes are only allowed on roads open to motorised vehicles so keep off the walking tracks.
There are also only a few recreational vehicle tracks, with some like the Bird River track popular. Be mindful of weather conditions as some tracks are often closed in rough weather.
Highlights
Iron Blow Lookout
The Iron Blow is the site of the earliest major mining venture at Mount Lyell, back in 1883. The lookout gives a vertigo-inducing view of a landscape scarred by historical mining activity. Walk out onto a cantilevered lookout offering fantastic views over the former open cut mine and the Linda Valley.
West Coast Heritage Centre
Tells the stories of the history and development of the West Coast and its rich pioneering past through comprehensive displays of photographs, mining memorabilia and machinery. Included in your entry is access to the historic Gaiety Theatre.
Macquarie Harbour
The harbour may look beautiful - postcard perfect - but it has seen terrible hardship and untold suffering.