Cape to Cape Track

Cape to Cape Track is a long-distance walk trail in Western Australia, running between the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. The corridor follows the Leeuwin-Naturaliste Ridge through Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, with the route alternating between coastal sections and inland breaks that include Boranup Forest.

It’s a point-to-point coastal hike typically done as a 5–7 day end-to-end walk (around 130 km). The trail is managed as a walking track designed to blend into the environment, so expect a mix of surfaces rather than a single uniform path.

Terrain varies from sealed, mostly flat pathways on some early sections to steep, rough walking in places, plus soft sandy beaches. There are also some constructed elements for walkers in steep spots, and a limited amount of older vehicle-track alignment where that’s part of the route.

The route is marked with square pine posts bearing the triangular track logo, and larger wooden signs are used to guide movement off beaches. The trail also uses occasional built steps in steep areas to manage erosion and reduce difficulty during climbs.

Plan for water and supplies as conditions vary across the track. Drinking water quality is variable and streams/creeks can be unreliable in summer, so you need to carry enough water for a full day of walking when you’re away from towns.

Camping is set up around the length of the track: there are basic low-key track campsites with bush toilets and rainwater-tank water requiring treatment, plus more-developed National Park campgrounds with fees along the way. Camping is not allowed outside designated camping zones in the national park.

Hazards are seasonal, especially summer heat and fire danger. Use current area alerts and fire ratings before committing to longer multi-day plans, and if conditions become extreme you should expect closures/diversions and the need to adjust your itinerary.

For preparation, pre-walk the sections you intend to tackle (or at least inspect the route you’ll use) so you understand where the route is sandy/rough and where river crossings or steeper terrain occur; then re-check current track conditions close to departure since temporary works and diversions can change access along parts of the line.

More information: Wikipedia, Cape to Cape Track 101: A Novice's Guide, Cape to Cape Track | Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park