East Fitzgerald National Park offers a short but rewarding hike to Sepulcralis Hill Lookout. This moderately easy (Grade 2) trail winds its way through low, dense shrubland for roughly 260 metres before culminating in a scenic lookout at 175 metres above sea level.
The name "Sepulcralis" is a fascinating one, drawing a connection to burial grounds. The weeping gum (Eucalyptus sepulcralis) gracing the path was historically favoured for cemeteries due to its drooping branches.
From the lookout, a breathtaking panorama unfolds. The three sharp peaks of the Whoogarup Range dominate the immediate view, while the three central peaks of the Barrens Range, including Woolbernup Hill, Mid Mount Barren (the park's highest at 510 metres), and Thumb Peak, rise majestically in the distance. Eastward, the rugged outline of East Mount Barren (311 metres) and the Eyre Range, culminating in Annie Peak (457 metres), complete the picture.
The surrounding vegetation itself is a source of wonder. Keep an eye out for bearded heaths, rushes, and a variety of banksia species, adding splashes of colour and texture to the landscape. Notably, the hill itself is named after the graceful weeping gum, a species restricted to the park's eastern quartzite hills. These same hills provide a haven for the stunning crimson-flowered Barrens regelia, another plant thriving in the quartzite environment.
The name "sepulcralis," meaning "of the tomb," might seem a curious choice for this beautiful tree. However, its melancholic appearance was once considered fitting for cemeteries. Despite this historical association, the weeping gum's delicate form adds a distinctive and charming touch to the park's vast, rolling landscapes.
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Total distance: 550 m
Max elevation: 179 m
Min elevation: 170 m
Total climbing: 11 m
Total descent: -11 m
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Accessing the Sepulcralis Hill Lookout Walk requires travelling by car to East Fitzgerald National Park, roughly 600 kilometres (a 7-hour drive) south of Perth. Once within the park, follow Hamersley Drive eastward. The car park for the Sepulcralis Hill Lookout Walk is well-marked and lies on the eastern side of Hamersley Drive, approximately 3.7 kilometres north of the intersection with Hamersley Inlet Road.
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Fitzgerald River National Park, in Western Australia, is a place of raw beauty, recognised for its rich Indigenous heritage and designated as traditional land for the Goreng, Menang and Wudjari people.
This vast park, encompassing 330,000 hectares of unspoiled wilderness, is a haven for flora and fauna. Renowned for its diverse plant life, Fitzgerald River National Park boasts an incredible 20% of Western Australia’s documented plant species, including 75 unique wildflowers found nowhere else on Earth.
Bushwalking trails weave through rugged landscapes, offering opportunities to discover this extraordinary botanical wonderland. Keen birdwatchers will be thrilled by the park’s over 200 bird species, including rarities like the ground parrot, western whipbird, and western bristlebird.
A tranquil escape, Fitzgerald River National Park caters to a range of interests. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, adventure in beautiful bays and inlets with activities like swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, surfing, or fishing, or a chance to witness the majesty of migrating whales during winter, this park offers something for everyone.
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.
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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.
