Discover the Best Walking Trails in the Great Southern

Hiking around Denmark WA is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the Great Southern region of Western Australia.

From towering karri forests and peaceful rivers to dramatic coastal lookouts, the area offers an incredible range of walking trails suited to both leisurely walkers and experienced hikers.

The landscape also changes beautifully throughout the year — from wildflowers in spring to golden forest tones in autumn. If you're planning a walking trip, it’s worth reading our guide on the best time to visit Denmark WA to experience the region at its most beautiful.

Below are five of the best hiking trails in Denmark WA to explore while visiting the region.

The 5 Best Hiking Trails in Denmark WA

Denmark, Western Australia is known for its breathtaking landscapes, from lush karri forests to rugged Southern Ocean coastline. The region offers a wide variety of walking trails perfect for both relaxed scenic walks and longer adventures.

Below are some of the best hikes in Denmark WA to explore during your visit.

Harewood Forest Walk

The Harewood Forest Walk is a peaceful 2.8 km loop trail located around 12 km from Denmark town along Scotsdale Road.

This gentle walk winds through towering karri trees and lush forest, following the small brook that runs through the valley. It’s an easy and family-friendly trail that usually takes between one and two hours to complete.

Spring is a great time to visit as the trail is alive with wildflowers, while summer is cool and shady, perfect for picnics. If you're interested in learning about Denmark's timber milling history, there are signs along the trail that tell the story.

Trail start: Off Scottsdale Road, 417 km southwest of Perth.

Trail end: Loop trail.

Mokare Heritage Trail

The Mokare Heritage Trail is a 3km trail that takes around 1-2 hours to complete and is suitable for newbies and seasoned hikers alike. The trail starts at Berridge Park and offers scenic views of the Denmark River and the surrounding karri trees, bushland, and paperbarks. The trail also provides a glimpse of Denmark's rail and settlement heritage, passing over the heritage Railway Bridge. If walking with children, be sure to find the fairy doors that are hidden on both paths along the rivers edge.

The trail is named after Mokare, an early Aboriginal leader. It links with other trails, such as the Wilson Inlet Heritage Trail and the Munda Biddi Cycle Trail.

Trail start: Berridge Park, Denmark, WA. 420 km south of Perth.

Trail end: Loop Trail.

See more: Top 5 things to do in Denmark, WA

Wilderness Ocean Walk

The WoW (Wilderness Ocean Walk) Trail is a 6.5 km walk or mountain bike trail that traverses along the stunning coastal the stunning coastal environment of the Wilson Head Reserve. This trail connects Lights Beach and the Denmark Community Wind Farm at Ocean Beach. The Wow Trail offers unique coastline views along the way, with benches to sit on, and could be an ideal option for those looking to take occasional water breaks along the way.

The trail is shared with the Bibbulmun Track walk trail and the Munda Biddi bike trail.. This trail is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a unique and peaceful experience in nature. There are several car parks along the trail, so either walk the entire trail or choose a route that is suitable to your needs. For the seasoned hiker we suggest a return trip from Lights Beach to the windmills farm. A walk from Elephant Rock to Waterfall Beach is a shorter scenic route.

Tail Start: 442 km south of Perth at the Lights Beach Car Park.

Tail End: Ocean Beach Road Denmark at the Denmark Community Wind Farm Access Gate.

Monkey Rock

The Monkey Rock Trail is one of the most popular short hikes near Denmark.

This 2 km return walk follows part of the Bibbulmun Track through karri and marri forest before reaching the granite rock formation at the summit.

The final climb is moderately steep, but the reward is one of the best viewpoints in the region. From the top, hikers are treated to panoramic views across Lights Beach, William Bay National Park and the surrounding coastline.

It’s a short walk with a big payoff and a favourite for sunset views.

Tail Start: Monkey Rock Carpark, Lights Road.

Tail End: Loop Trail.

Bald Head Trail

or experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Bald Head Walk Trail in Torndirrup National Park near Albanyoffers one of the most spectacular coastal hikes in Western Australia.

This 12.5 km return walk follows the narrow ridge line of the Flinders Peninsula, surrounded by dramatic views of the Southern Ocean and King George Sound.

The trail includes boardwalk sections, limestone paths and exposed granite rock, requiring a good level of fitness. The reward is a breathtaking headland at the end of the peninsula.

Trail Start/End. Torndirrup National Park, Off Murray Road

Choosing the Right Hiking Trail in Denmark WA

With so many beautiful trails around Denmark, it can be helpful to choose a walk that suits your time, experience and the type of scenery you’d like to explore.

Here’s a quick comparison of some of the best hikes in Denmark WA:

Harewood Forest Walk – A gentle 2.8 km loop trail through towering karri forest, perfect for beginners or families looking for an easy nature walk.
Mokare Heritage Trail – A scenic 3 km riverside walk starting in Denmark town, offering beautiful views of the Denmark River and the surrounding bushland.
Wilderness Ocean Walk (WOW Trail) – A 6.5 km coastal trail with sweeping views across the Southern Ocean, ideal for those wanting a longer walk with incredible scenery.
Monkey Rock Trail – A short 2 km return hike with a moderately steep climb leading to panoramic views over Lights Beach and William Bay National Park.
Bald Head Trail – A challenging 12.5 km return hike in Torndirrup National Park near Albany, following a dramatic ridge line along the Flinders Peninsula with sweeping views across the Southern Ocean.

Whether you're looking for a relaxed forest walk or a more challenging coastal hike, Denmark offers something for every type of explorer.

5 Best Hikes in Denmark, Western Australia