Trail Fast Facts
Greenough River Nature Trail is a 17km, grade 3 hike in Geraldton, Western Australia. This hike typically takes 5 hours to complete.
Warning
This hike is classified as Grade 3 (Moderate) primarily due to its distance exceeding 10km. The terrain itself is relatively easy and suitable for most abilities. However, the longer distance requires some stamina. Feel free to turn back at any point for a shorter adventure.
Hike Overview
This 17 kilometre loop walk is flat and offers a mix of coastal vegetation and beautiful river views. Allow at least four hours and take plenty of water to do this one. There is signage showing maps of the route at various points. Mountain bikers are permitted.
The Greenough River meets the sea (often blocked by a sandbar) at Cape Burney, 10km south of Geraldton. The river meanders through a mix of rich wheatfarms, remnant bushland, coastal vegetation and dunes. This day walk includes all this variety, plus numerous wildflowers in spring. The varied habitats ensure there is a wide variety of Birds about. The dune and riverbank areas are havens for small Birds such as wrens and honeyeaters. Pelicans, egrets, ducks and cormerants are often seen feeding in the river and estuary areas.
The walk from the mouth of the River to Rudd's Gully is about three and a half kilometres. If you fancy a dip in the river after your long walk, Devlin Pool is just a short walk past the gully. The path is wide enough to cycle if you prefer If doing the whole loop, allow plenty of time for its 17km length.
Spring is a good time to do this walk. In summer wear a hat, lots of water, your bathers and a picnic.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 22 m
Min elevation: -19 m
Total climbing: 174 m
Total descent: -176 m
Trailhead
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Getting there
Start Point: Greenough River carpark. 393km (4 hours) north of Perth. 23km south of Geraldton
Photo gallery
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About the region
Geraldton is up there with the top must-see surfing, kite surfing, windsurfing, diving, snorkelling, boating and fishing destinations in Australia. It's also ideally situated for exploring one of the greatest displays of spring wildflowers on Earth, with some intriguing Indigenous, maritime and Spanish missionary history to discover along the way.
Located on the beautiful Batavia Coast, 419 kilometres north of Perth, a road trip to Geraldton will take you just five hours. A coach will get you there in six hours, or you can fly direct from Perth in just an hour. And during the summer months, you also have the option to arrive in style by cruise ship.
The Greenough River meets the sea (often blocked by a sandbar) at Cape Burney, 10km south of Geraldton. The river meanders through a mix of rich wheatfarms, remnant bushland, coastal vegetation and dunes. This day walk includes all this variety, plus numerous wildflowers in spring. The varied habitats ensure there is a wide variety of birds about. The dune and riverbank areas are havens for small birds such as wrens and honeyeaters. Pelicans, egrets, ducks and cormerants are often seen feeding in the river and estuary areas.
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Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Geraldton or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.