At 1,234 metres tall, Western Australia’s second-tallest mountain ‘Mount Bruce’ boasts exceptional views of the Hamersley Mountain Range and the unique landscape of Karijini National Park.
The trailhead for Mount Bruce begins at the car park, just south of Karijini Drive. The trail commences with a gentle walk, which I didn’t find too strenuous as the gradient doesn’t increase too dramatically for most of the climb.
However, when you reach higher ground, the terrain becomes more challenging. The false summit, before the final ascent, consists of a small section of challenging terrain that could almost be considered a scramble. It doesn’t require much technical ability but does require a bit of courage and some decent hiking shoes. After this, it eases out as you hike along some large boulders until you reach the final ascent to the summit.
Some measures have been put into place to make this trail safer. Plaques mark the entire route and safety rails have been placed on the precarious sections.
The view from the top is beautiful and unique. In every direction (with the expectation of the mines) are hundreds of kilometres of dry and seemingly untouched land, populated with grey and yellow grass, red dirt, small trees and mountains that seem to burst out of nowhere. As you scan the surrounding area, the muted tones are not what grip you, but more the vastness that seems to expand before your eyes.
This thinly populated region is known as the Pilbara, home to some of Earth’s oldest rock formations.
During the descent from the windy summit, I was boulder hopping across the rocky section of the mountain when mid-jump I spotted a massive lizard bathing in the sun. He was placid and didn’t mind the attention when we stopped to admire him momentarily.
The class 5 hike is an epic 9-kilometre excursion and will take around six hours to complete. Make sure to pack plenty of water and some food for the hike. Even if you start early, you will most likely still be hiking when it gets hot, ensure you bring a hat and appropriate clothing.
The terrain isn’t particularly challenging, anyone who is moderately fit can complete this hike safely.
THE IVY TRAIL 