The Mount Meharry Summit Walk is in the remote Karijini National Park. During summer, temperatures frequently top 40°C. Drink plenty of water at all times and make sure you are well prepared.
Nestled within the Hamersley Range, Mount Meharry rises as a beacon of ancient history and breathtaking vistas. Its red cliffs and gorges whisper tales of a time when miners carved their mark on the Western Australian landscape. For geologists and adventurers alike, this peak offers a chance to explore the raw beauty of the outback and witness the power of time etched in stone.
The climb to the top is no walk in the park. It's a rugged affair, testing your endurance and rewarding you with unforgettable panoramas. As you ascend, the landscape unfolds beneath you, transforming into a vast tapestry of ochre desert stretching towards the distant coast. Each step brings you closer to the breathtaking views that make the journey worthwhile.
Mount Meharry bears the name of William Thomas Meharry, the State's Chief Geodetic Surveyor from 1959 to 1967. His dedication to mapping the vast expanse of Western Australia led to the discovery of this hidden gem in 1967. Standing at 1,248 meters above sea level, it claims the title of the highest point in the state.
Reaching the summit doesn't require scaling sheer cliffs. A 4WD track winds its way up the mountainside, offering a thrilling alternative to traditional hiking. This track, starting along Packsadle Road near Karijini National Park, transforms into a rugged adventure suitable for high-clearance vehicles. While driving to the peak might be tempting, remember that the true explorer's spirit lies in hiking the final stretch on foot. Park at the Karijini National Park boundary and embark on an 8-kilometer hike to claim your victory at the summit.
Whether you choose to drive or hike, remember that Mount Meharry is more than just a destination. It's an experience, a chance to connect with the rugged beauty of Western Australia and feel the thrill of reaching new heights. So lace up your boots, fire up your engine, and prepare to be awestruck by the magic of Mount Meharry.
Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
- Road conditions can vary, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
- Choose appropriate footwear for the walk to the top.
- Leave no trace and respect the natural environment.
Note: The GPX file provides the entire 42km route from Packsadle Road to the summit and back. The suggested hike length of 16km has been calculated from the National Park Boundary.
Total distance: 42720 m
Max elevation: 1237 m
Min elevation: 727 m
Total climbing: 709 m
Total descent: -709 m
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This off-road adventure takes you through the rugged outback of Western Australia, offering stunning views and a sense of exploration. Be prepared for a mix of driving and walking as you navigate dirt roads and climb a scenic ridge. Start in Newman, WA: This small town in the Pilbara region serves as your gateway to the adventure. Take some time to fuel up and stock up on supplies before heading out. Head north on the Great Northern Highway: Enjoy the scenic drive through the outback, keeping an eye out for kangaroos and other wildlife. Turn onto Packsaddle Road, then Juna Downs Road: These dirt roads will lead you deeper into the wilderness, offering glimpses of the rugged landscape.
Choose your parking spot near the National Park boundary: As the road quality deteriorates, find a safe spot to park your vehicle based on its capabilities. Remember, the further you park, the longer your hike will be. Walk the road to the top: Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views as you make your way up the ridge. Be prepared for a moderate to challenging hike on uneven terrain.
Mount Meharry (Image: Rhys Palazzolo iStock)
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Karijini National Park offers spectacular rugged scenery, ancient geological formations, a variety of arid-land ecosystems and a range of recreational experiences. Covering 627,422 hectares just north of the Tropic of Capricorn in the Hamersley Range, Karijini National Park is Western Australia's second largest national park. Massive mountains and escarpments rise out of the flat valleys. The high plateau is dissected by breathtaking gorges, and stony, tree-lined watercourses wind their way over the dusty plain. Erosion has slowly carved this landscape out of rocks that are over 2,500 million years old. There are many beautiful gorges and sites to visit in Karijini National Park, but be sure to include Dales Gorge, Fortescue Falls, Weano Gorge and Oxers Lookout.
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.
Looking for things to do in Karijini National Park 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.
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
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.
