Day 1: Cape Naturaliste to Yallingup (13.5km)
Enjoy complimentary morning pick up from Perth in Cape to Cape Explorer Tours’ transfer vehicle straight down to begin walking from Cape Naturaliste. The first section of the Cape to Cape Track begins with a gentle down hill stroll on the ‘access-for-all’ section of track to the stunning vistas of Sugar Loaf Rock. The Track then runs along an extended section of carved limestone sea cliffs before reaching the coastal hamlet of Yallingup, or ‘place of caves’.
Day 2: Yallingup to Moses Rock (17.5km)
From Yallingup pass over the granite headland at Torpedo Rock and on to the fabled Smiths Beach. After Smith’s Beach the topography changes quickly as giant granite marbles dominate near Canal Rocks, with a brilliant swimming hole called The Aquarium for a dazzling dip. Travel high over the ridge and past Rotary Lookout, before dropping back down on to the beach at Injidup. Travel over the ridge, through the coastal tee tree and back onto the wild south-west facing coast. Weave through stunning areas of limestone cliff and granite before walking through the stunted vegetation and granite fields of Moses Rock.
Day 3: Moses Rock to Gracetown (15km)
The Track rises high over several large limestone headlands before flattening out on Willyabrup Beach. A wonderfully constructed staircase then guides walkers up and onto the stunning sea cliffs that form the famous climbing buttresses of Wilyabrup Cliffs. After passing the cliffs, the Track drops back down onto the beach, passing the famous, though severe, surfing breaks of Gallows and Guillotines. The coast then turns decidedly rocky as it ducks and weaves over picturesque granite boulders and finally into the pretty hamlet of Gracetown. Relax here and enjoy an afternoon swim to sooth the muscles and mind!
Day 4: Gracetown to Prevelly (21.5km)
Beginning at the picturesque hamlet of Gracetown, follow the low coastline to the historic settlement of Ellensbrook, pictured below. From Ellensbrook, the Track quickly leaves the coast and meanders through sand dunes and past Ellensbrook homestead and Meekadarbee Falls. Visit the isolated coves of Gnoocardup and torquoise bay of Kilcarnup. Marvel at the centuries-old osprey nest in Horseshoe Bay and then take in some of the world’s finest surfing coastline at Prevelly.
Day 5: Prevelly to Boranup Forest (22.5km)
From the limestone ridge at Prevelly head down into the sheltered creekline of Boodjidup Brook. Continue on and experience the white sands of Boodjidup before reaching historic Redgate Beach. Next is very likely one of the best sections of the Cape to Cape Track: the scenic coastal cliffs at Bob’s Hollow and Contos (although we may be biased as CCET have adopted and maintain this leg!). Enter the majestic Karri forest, home to the world’s third tallest hardwood! A recent fire has affected some parts of Bonraup Forest, but regrowth is already coming back strongly. A longer day, but the solid track under foot and afternoon shade of the karri forest make it all seem easy.
Day 6: Boranup Forest to Cosy Corner (20.5k)
Start amongst the tall karris of Boranup Forest, home to an array of wildlife and wildflowers in season. Head south, back into the coastal heath, and down onto the stunningly beautiful Boranup Beach. 7kms of sand walking later, find the protected Hamelin Bay, home to some of the Cape’s friendliest stingrays who love a feed of freshly caught fish! Continue on past the many islands and headlands through the coastal heath and past Foul Bay lighthouse until you arrive at the stunning Cosy Corner.
Day 7: Cosy Corner to Cape Leeuwin (21.5km)
The last leg of the Cape to Cape Track faces more into the south than the rest of the coast. True wilderness with limited road access the sights are reserved for the local hooded plovers and you. Granite headlands are broken up by long sections of shoe-sucking sand. Formidable, but every step takes you closer to the Cape Leeuwin lighthouse and the moment of celebration. Congatulations! You made it. Now time for a cold glassy of bubbly to celebrate with your fellow hikers. You earned it!
