Forests of the Rainbow Coast
In the Southern Forests you will find some of the most ancient trees in the world.
The Giant Tingle Tree canopy can be viewed close-up at the Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk at the Walpole Wilderness Discovery Centre west of Denmark. Continuing west toward Walpole is the home of The Giant Tingle Tree, the oldest living eucalypt in the world.
The region's vegetation includes both towering karri and giant tingle but also includes seven hundred native species of plants and trees, making it one of the top ten areas of terrestrial biodiversity on the planet. (Aahh! It's fresh, fresh air.)
Click here for a FORESTS OF THE SOUTH COAST MAP which will show you the locations of the accessible forests of the Rainbow Coast. Remember, the coast requires our care and respect at all times.
Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk & The Ancient Empires Walk
at the Walpole Wilderness Discovery Centre, the coast's most famous trees...
Ancient Empires Walk The Ancient Empires Walk takes you through the forest at the base of the Giant Tingle Trees at the Treetop Walk. Visit Ancient Empires Walk
Valley of the Giants The Valley of the Giants Wilderness Discovery Centre at the Treetop Walk is the most visited place on the Rainbow Coast. Visit Valley of the Giants
Valley of the Giants Map Map to the Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk and the Ancient Empires Walk & Wilderness Discovery Centre Visit Valley of the Giants Map
Forests of the Walpole Region:
Walpole is a forest. That's why it is called the Walpole Wilderness Area, incorporating many national parks and southern forests.
The vastness of the forests are most easily seen from any one of the peaks throughout the region. Mount Frankland offers spectacular views to the horizons over rollling forests.
If you like trees, you'll love the Walpole Region.
Looking toward Mount Lindsay from atop Mount Frankland gives you a sense of the reach of the Southern Forests.
Walpole-Nornalup National Park occupies a unique high-rainfall corner of Western Australia and surrounds the towns of Walpole, Nornalup and Peaceful Bay. Part of the Walpole Wilderness area, it contains nearly 20,000 hectares of diverse vegetation, from towering karri and tingle forests to coastal heath and wetlands. Walpole-Nornalup National Park contains many pristine forests and areas with little evidence of human activity. ~ Dept of Environment and Conservation.
As the Walpole-Nornalup National Park is mostly forested, there are forest walks in almost every area of the park. We particularly enjoyed the Rookwood Trail which loops under the base of Mount Frankland (Mt Frankland National Park). The forested trail takes you through a (long) and windy path around the base through pristine native forests.
Karri Trees at Mount Frankland National Park, Walpole. The walk to the summit takes you up and through the canopy to view the great southern forests from above.
Walpole-Nornalup National Park Expansive covering over twenty thousand hectares of the Walpole Wilderness Area. Visit Walpole-Nornalup National Park
Walpole Town At the northern edge of the Walpole Inlet, Walpole is one of the few towns on the path of the Bibbulmun Track. Visit Walpole Town
Mount Frankland Starting in the karri trees you wind up and through towards the summit of Mt Frankland way above the tree top canopy. Visit Mount Frankland
Ancient Empires Walk The Ancient Empires Walk takes you through the forest at the base of the Giant Tingle Trees at the Treetop Walk. Visit Ancient Empires Walk
Circular Pool Family friendly swirling pools. Access via steps or a gentle paved pathway. Viewing platforms close to carpark. Visit Circular Pool
Fernhook Falls Located along the Deep River Fernhook Falls is a popular swimming and picnic spot in summer, and during winter is a truly magnificent sight! Visit Fernhook Falls
Giant Tingle Tree This Giant Tingle Tree is special because it the oldest living eucalypt in the world. It is an 800 metre walk from the car park to the Giant Tingle and back. Visit Giant Tingle Tree
Hilltop Lookout On Hilltop Road, east of Walpole. Overlooking the Nornalup Inlet and Frankland River. Rocky Head and Saddle Island can be seen in the distance. Visit Hilltop Lookout
Knoll Scenic Drive A five kilometre circular drive on the peninsula between the Walpole and Nornalup Inlets. A distinctly well-kept rest area with picnic tables & toilets. Visit Knoll Scenic Drive
Nornalup Inlet The Nornalup Inlet is serene. Fed from the Deep and Frankland Rivers it connects to the Walpole Inlet via a natural deep water channel. Visit Nornalup Inlet
Sappers Bridge Re-built October 1982 for the National Parks Authority by 22nd Construction Squadron RAE following flood damage January 1982. Visit Sappers Bridge
Valley of the Giants The Valley of the Giants Wilderness Discovery Centre at the Treetop Walk is the most visited place on the Rainbow Coast. Visit Valley of the Giants
Explore the tingle forests at the Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk or visit the Ancient Empires and stroll through these giants at ground level.
Forests of the Denmark Region:
Denmark is the place where the Forest meets the Sea. Beaches and forests co-exist, interspersed with ancient rock formations.
The straight, tall Karri trees love the area. You'll know you're in Denmark when you pass into these silvery giants.
At the western end of the region is the Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk and Ancient Empires Walk.
Tree-lined shores
Forests line the shore of the Denmark River. Walk the route the original explorers took along the Mokare Heritage Trail. The trail takes you amongst the karri and paperbark trees which line the banks of the Denmark River to the rivermouth where it empties into the Wilson Inlet.
Above, the forests of Denmark from Monkey Rock Lookout. Below Harewood Forest Walk, Scotsdale, Denmark
Harewood Forest is located along the Scotsdale Road Tourist Drive. This delightful trail through the karri trees allows you to learn the history of the logging industry (via small signs) as you go!
Explore the forests of Denmark:
Ancient Empires Walk The Ancient Empires Walk takes you through the forest at the base of the Giant Tingle Trees at the Treetop Walk. Visit Ancient Empires Walk
Giant Tingle Tree This Giant Tingle Tree is special because it the oldest living eucalypt in the world. It is an 800 metre walk from the car park to the Giant Tingle and back. Visit Giant Tingle Tree
Harewood Forest Walk Harewood Forest is an almost 1.5k walk through the forest. The stream at the end is the turn-around point. Filled with information on history, flora & fauna. Visit Harewood Forest Walk
Heritage Rail Bridge The Bridge is easily accessed by driving south along the river on Hollings Drive where you will find parking spaces, picnic tables and a gazebo. Visit Heritage Rail Bridge
Mokare Heritage Trail Named after an aboriginal tracker and chieftain, the Mokare Heritage Trail winds along the east side of the Denmark River. Visit Mokare Heritage Trail
Tower Hill Located a kilometre north of Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks at the eastern side of William Bay National Park. Visit Tower Hill
Valley of the Giants The Valley of the Giants Wilderness Discovery Centre at the Treetop Walk is the most visited place on the Rainbow Coast. Visit Valley of the Giants
Forests within the Albany Region
Though the Albany area is forested, the slightly different climate does not support the ancient giants (as easily). Native bottlebrush, banksia, combined with a rugged, ancient coastline lean more towards wildflowers. Torndirrup National Park is forested up until the cliffs, and are best viewed from Stony Hill. Visit the Albany Region
Dieback
Dieback is a threat to the South West of Western Australia:
"Introduction of phytophthora dieback into the region has devastated many native plant communities and is threatening a number of rare plants with extinction."
How can you help?
Any activity which transfers soil or plant matter from one site to another site has the potential to spread the disease including:
- Bush Walking
- Mountain Biking
- 4 Wheel Driving
- Camping
Please be responsible for your impact by keeping your shoes and tyres clean and free from dirt before entering into a bush land or forested area. Thank you for taking the time to care for the trees.
Forest Videos:
Additional resources for visiting the south coast:
Seasons of the Coast You will find a Seasons Calendar with Wildflower and a Whales to help you plan your visit to the South Coast - The Rainbow Coast! Visit Seasons of the Coast
South Coast Beaches Map South Coast Beaches from west of Walpole to East of Albany all on one map! Visit South Coast Beaches Map
South Coast Weather The climate of the Rainbow Coast is considered to be "the best in the world," according to those who live here. Visit South Coast Weather
Rainbow Coast Regions:
Albany Region The Albany Region of Western Australia is a land of mountains and waterways. An amazing region to explore. Visit Albany Region
Denmark Region The Denmark Region is gorgeous. Trees, hills, beaches, rocks, wildlife around the river and the inlet. Visit Denmark Region
Walpole Region Walpole is the western end of the Rainbow Coast and is surrounded by National Park and forested wilderness. Visit Walpole Region
Main Attractions on the Coast:
Ocean Beach Ocean Beach is set between the Wilson Inlet and the Great Southern Ocean, and is the closest beach to Denmark Town. A popular surfing spot and lookout.. Visit Ocean Beach
Greens Pool Almost completely sheltered from the waves of the Great Southern Ocean, Greens Pool is a paradise. Visit Greens Pool
Elephant Rocks Giant rocks shaped like elephants stand together facing into the waves of the Great Southern Ocean Visit Elephant Rocks
Mount Frankland Starting in the karri trees you wind up and through towards the summit of Mt Frankland way above the tree top canopy. Visit Mount Frankland
Two Peoples Bay NP Located approximately 25 kilometres north-east of Albany. Rediscovery of the presumed extinct noisy scrub-bird. Visit Two Peoples Bay NP
West Cape Howe National Park Containing the southernmost point of Western Australia this national park is astounding. Visit West Cape Howe National Park
Shelley Beach Turquoise waters, verdant surrounds and ocean breeze make this beach a popular yet remote destination. Visit Shelley Beach
Natural Bridge The Natural Bridge is a granite formation caused by the gradual wearing away of the rock by the Great Southern Ocean. Visit Natural Bridge
Brig Amity Replica Experience the first settlers arrival in Albany, the first settlement in Western Australia, from onboard a replica of the Amity. Visit Brig Amity Replica
Middleton Beach The most popular beach in Albany. Swim or relax under the trees. Cafes and amenities. Visit Middleton Beach
Little Beach This gorgeous beach is approximately 25 kilometres north east of Albany in Two Peoples Bay National Park. Visit Little Beach
Albany Wind Farm Beautiful and productive green energy from the wind of the Torndirrup, just outside Albany City towards Frenchman Bay. Visit Albany Wind Farm
Ancient Empires Walk The Ancient Empires Walk takes you through the forest at the base of the Giant Tingle Trees at the Treetop Walk. Visit Ancient Empires Walk
Bibbulmun Track The Bibbulmun Track stretches from Kalamunda in the Perth hills to Albany, through many locations in the heart of the Rainbow Coast. Visit Bibbulmun Track
Denmark Wineries Denmark Wineries and Vineyards to visit while on holiday along the Rainbow Coast. Wineries with restaurants, music, cellar doors and more! Visit Denmark Wineries
Frenchman Bay Located on the southern side of King George Sound this beautiful setting has a grassy picnic area, BBQs and boat launch. Ideal beachfront location for a great day out! Visit Frenchman Bay
Giant Tingle Tree This Giant Tingle Tree is special because it the oldest living eucalypt in the world. It is an 800 metre walk from the car park to the Giant Tingle and back. Visit Giant Tingle Tree
Lights Beach Inspiring lookout and beach offering spectacular views of William Bay from the east. A favourite local beach. Visit Lights Beach
Mandalay Beach Spectacular views to Chatham Island, gorgeous white sandy beach it is a must-see... sometimes the shipwreck is visible too. Visit Mandalay Beach
Misery Beach Albany Misery Beach is a hidden gem on the southern coast of Western Australia known for stunning natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. Visit Misery Beach Albany
Monkey Rock Spectacular elevated views over William Bay Nat. Park, Ratcliffe Bay, Ocean Beach and the Nullaki Peninsula. Visit Monkey Rock
Princess Royal Fortress One of the best outdoor military museums in Australia. The Fortress is within the Albany Heritage Park, atop Mount Adelaide. Visit Princess Royal Fortress
South Coast Beaches Map South Coast Beaches from west of Walpole to East of Albany all on one map! Visit South Coast Beaches Map
Valley of the Giants The Valley of the Giants Wilderness Discovery Centre at the Treetop Walk is the most visited place on the Rainbow Coast. Visit Valley of the Giants
Other amazing locations in the South-West of Western Australia!
More information on the south-west coast in our other Western Australian travellers guides:
Albany Tourist Information:
Albany WA
The Albany is the oldest settlement in Western Australia. Filled with history, surrounded by beaches and waterways, and a great place to visit while on holiday on the south coast of WA. Visit Albany today.
Have you visited?
Fremantle WA
Fremantle, the Port City, is located south-west of Perth at the mouth of the Swan River. Fremantle's vibrant nightlife, music scene and cafe' culture make Fremantle a perfect getaway from the bustle of Perth. Beaches, history, shopping, dining out, and more. VISIT FREMANTLE
Have you visited?
Margaret River, WA
The Margaret River Region is an area of magnificent beauty on the western coast of the south west of WA. From the expansive shores of Busselton on Geographe Bay, through Dunsborough & Margaret River to Augusta, the Margaret River Region is fantastic. VISIT MARGARET RIVER
Have you visited?
Denmark WA
Denmark WA is one of the most beautiful places along the south coast as it has forests, beaches, rivers and waves. Everything you need for the perfect south coast holiday. Denmark Wineries are popular too! Info on Denmark Town including shopping, dining & history, VISIT DENMARK WA