Bibbulmun Track

The Bibbulmum track is a 1000kms hiking trail from Albany to Kalamunda or reverse. Go to the Bibbulmun Track Website (they currently do not have a physical office) that can give you a lot of information re: maps and general knowledge, but I’d also like to share some of the things I learnt that might be helpful. My advice is first do some day hikes or weekend hikes to get an idea of what is involved. There is a number of places where you can be transported out to sections of the track and hike back to your accommodation. Do as much research as you can. My plan was to do the entire walk non-stop and to complete it in 40 days on my own, I was 60 years old and reasonably fit. There are over 50 basic timber huts with water tanks spaced at all different distances, be aware and plan carefully.You will hike through south coast sand hills, the tall trees of the Pemberton area, then north up through the jarrah forests. I started the hike beginning of April, travelling S to N to miss the heat and rain and I still think this is the best option. The trail is marked by symbols of the Waugal (rainbow serpent) spaced 500m apart.If you are still interested some things to think about:

Make sure you have good hiking boots and good quality socks. Get your boots half to one size larger than you normally take as your feet will swell up.
Don’t skimp when buying your gear! Invest in a good backpack with a belt that sits on your hips, this will take weight off your shoulders.
Other items you will need are: a tent, full length self inflating mattress and pillow, clothing, cooking equipment and toiletries.
You can get a checklist and maps from the Bibblumun Track website and office.

Remember this is a long hike and a comfortable night’s rest is essential.

Now to what I think is paramount in achieving this hike, pack your backpack and weigh it. If it is over 18 kilos take everything out and start again, it is physically demanding at times, make it as easy as you can, walking poles are also a big help.Plan your meals well. Lots of pre-packaged meals are available or get yourself a hydrater. Don’t even think about cans or bottles, what you take in you have to take out. You will also need to carry a minimum 3 litres of water each day.

I wanted to do it non stop and achieved my goal of finishing in 40 days and without a doubt it was one of the best things I have ever done.
Don’t forget, RESEARCH, PLAN, TRAIN, THEN HAVE A GO!

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About Chris & Wayne Bullard

Retirees Chris and Wayne Bullard have 2 kids and 6 grandkids. They love the "grey nomad" lifestyle having been around Australia a couple of times and are going around again!