Bibbulmun Track (Camel Farm to Kalamunda)

As part of our second journey through the Bibbulmun Track, we decided to go opposite directions. Therefore, instead of going further down from where we stopped on our last short walk (see post here) to Mount Cook, we planned to walk from the farm to Kalamunda. It was a lengthy journey of about six and a half hours. We nearly gave up half way there, but with all might, we managed to complete our goal. We were delighted to reach the beginning of the track, in the town of Kalamunda, where we had an ice-cream break to sustain us on our way back. 

We started our walk from Camel Farm on 31 May 2015, at 10.00.a.m. and returned just before 5:00.p.m. We did took a wrong path on the way to Kalamunda and ended up walking through a very steep and rocky area. Fortunately, no one broke a leg and we managed to get back on the correct track. This was personally the most challenging part of our journey, even though the track itself was not a smooth one. It went up and down repeatedly as we were nearing Kalamunda. However, we were, as per last trip, welcomed by beautiful scenery. We also walked through the Kalamunda National Park with breathtaking views over the valley.

As we walked across the National Park, we came across the above shoes' scraper. It was the first time I came across this device. I learned that it is to prevent us from unintentionally carrying dieback diseases into the National Park. Dieback disease is basically a 'plant destroyer', as such very detrimental to the flora and fauna.

All in all, it was a great walk. It is not for the faint-hearted since you do need to walk consistently. It was more physically demanding than initially expected and definitely a test of endurance as well. It was a great experience though and I was left with a great feeling of relief after returning back, tired, but safe and sound.

Notes and tips:

-There is no water all along the track, so do bring enough water to hydrate yourself.

-I wore my normal running shoes, but do use hiking boots if you have them since there are some rocky slippery parts.

-Use hiking poles for more stability or grab any strong stick along the way to ease the walk.

-Bring some band-aids and antiseptic, just in case.

-Bring food because once you're in, there is no point of return. However, if you are lucky, you could come across some self-served mandarins stand. 

For more information about the track, please visit the below website:

https://www.bibbulmuntrack.org.au/

Bibbulmun Track (Camel Farm to Golden View Lookout)

Bibbulmun Track is one of the longest walking trail in Western Australia, starting from Kalamunda and stretching all the way across Albany. The trail is 1000 kms and, from what I have read, it would take about 6-8 weeks to complete the whole journey on foot. However, you can do short walks and choose different starting points to begin with. All you have to do, then, is follow the yellow triangular signposts with a snake on it. This will be a reminder that you are on the right track. As you go along you will come across bushes, forests and several amazing views.

We started our walk from Calammunnda Camel Farm, in Paulls Valley, on the 24 of May 2015. There is no entry fee to the farm and you will be welcomed by an animal farm- goats, goose, chickens, emu, and camels. You can buy some camel food to feed the camels or even ride them for a fee. There is also a tea room and toilet facilities.

For more information, please refer to their website:

http://www.camelfarm.com/

So, as we began our journey, we follow the trail inside the park, and the signposts. We started at 11.00. a.m and returned at around 3:30.p.m, with a lunch break in between, of course. It was quite a leisurely walk and the weather was good as well. We also spotted a mama kangaroo and its joey. 

After several hours, we started to feel famished and the pain as the path stretches on and on. We were fortunately soon rejoiced, after reaching the South Ledge picnic area where we had our lunch. Being revitalised, we then walked to the Golden View Lookout, which provided us with a breathtaking view over Mundaring Weir and Helena River Valley.

Soon after, we began our walk back to the farm. This appeared very long, but as in any usual walks, the way back was faster than the way to. We picked up all of our strength and with all of our energy left, we manage to return safe and sound. 

Notes and tips:
-There is no water all along the track, so do bring enough water to hydrate yourself.
-We did come across a camp site, Hewett's Hill, with picnic table and a restroom.
-I wore my normal running shoes, but do use hiking boots if you do have them since there are some rocky slippery parts.
-Use hiking poles for more stability or grab any strong stick along the way to ease the walk
-Bring some band-aids and antiseptic, just in case.

For more information on the Bibbulmun Track, please refer to the below website:
https://www.bibbulmuntrack.org.au/the-track/