It doesn’t get more wild than this! Arguably our most challenging route, incorporating a section of the iconic Cape to Cape Track around Cape Naturaliste and along the shores of Geographe Bay into Dunsborough - where the bush meets the beach.
You’ll explore spectacular coastal and forest scenery, a fascinating geology of cliffs, caves, headlands and rock formations and an ever-changing display of vegetation and wildflowers – with a very high chance of spotting Humpback and Southern Right Whales making their annual migration!
Choose to hike 35km from Yallingup Beach or 20km from Cape Naturaliste, crossing the finish line in Dunsborough, and explore one of Australia’s most picturesque coastlines. The longer you hike the more you’ll see!
35KM
The 35km trekkers will set off early morning on Yallingup Beach, in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park – famous for its beaches and limestone caves. A 1km sand hike will kick off your journey before exiting the beach onto the Cape to Cape Track, where the terrain is a mix of sand, soil and limestone rocks - watch your footing for potential trip hazards.
The Track will take you back onto the sand at Kabbijgup Beach for about 400m before you reach Three Bears – so named for its unique combination of three surf breaks, affectionately known as Papa Bear, Momma Bear and Baby Bear – for a water and toilet stop at the 7.5km mark. Note for support crews, this stop is only accessible by 4WD.
The trail continues to be a mix of sand, soil and rocks with panoramic views out to the Indian Ocean to your left as you make your way to the Sugarloaf Rock ‘Kiss Stop’ at the 10.5km mark. You’ll then hit some sealed footpaths as you make your ascent to the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse Luv Stop. Make sure you stop and admire the incredible views – back from where you came and to the journey ahead!
20KM (35KM trekkers keep reading…)
The 20km trekkers will set off early morning from Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse, with breathtaking views out to the Indian Ocean and around to Geographe Bay.
As you descend from the Lighthouse, you’ll follow a dirt road for about 1km before joining the Cape Naturaliste Trail where you’ll walk over some sharp limestone rocks, take it slow and steady down this trail towards Bunker Bay Beach. This is a challenging 1.8km stretch of sand (thighs and glutes engaged!) ahead of you but Bunker Bay is a stunning section of coastline (make note to come back for a swim tomorrow!). The good news is, this is the longest stretch of sand you’ll encounter today.
Reaching Rocky Point, you’ll scramble across some amazing granite rock formations. Use caution when crossing the rocks, they can be slippery, especially when wet.
From here, the route towards the Dunsborough finish line is mostly flat. You’ll pass a Luv Stop at Eagle Bay and short 800m walk on the sand, then another Kiss stop at Meelup Beach before continuing through the stunning Meelup Regional Park (be sure to clean your footwear at the boot cleaning station to reduce the risk of spreading Phytopthora cinnamomic).
From here the route becomes more urban as you hit the beautiful coastal town of Dunsborough and the finish line. You did it!
But what about the sand, how much sand?!
35km event – approx. 4km of sand walking
20km event – approx. 2.7km of sand walking.
Please keep in mind that all Coastrek routes are subject to change, but we strive to stick to the advised route as closely as possible. Nature sometimes presents circumstances beyond our control, such as tides or fallen trees, which may require slight route alterations. Rest assured that any adjustments will be clearly marked and communicated on the event day.
Comments
0 comments
Article is closed for comments.