Forests in Denmark Australia
Exploring the forests of Denmark WA
Denmark is immersed in forests of all sizes and types. The native bush has been home to these sentinels long before us, and a walk among their canopy is revitalising to the spirit. The Karri, Tingle, Jarrah, Sheoak forests revitalise our biosphere - so please, walk gently.
Denmark's Harewood Forest along the Scotsdale Road Tourist Drive in Denmark is a delightful trail meandering through the majestic karri trees. As you stroll, small signs unveil the fascinating history of the logging industry, offering a unique learning experience amidst the natural beauty.
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 west of Denmark. 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. This impressive array of flora represents a treasure trove for hikers. (Aahh! It's fresh, fresh air.)
Of course the Bibbulmun Track, the world-class long-distance walking trail which stretches from Perth (the capital of Western Australia, 450km north-west) to Albany (the old capital and founding city) just 50km east of Denmark Town. The trail is open year round, the best times to walk it are in Spring for the wildflowers or Autumn and Winter for cool days to ride. Unveil the wonders of Denmark's Bibbulmun Track section, where every step promises an enriching and memorable experience. There are huts along the way, one days walk apart, plus a variety of excellent trail-side rental accommodation choices.
The south-west of Western Australia is special.
Luc Longley speaks out for the forests:
Basketball legend, Luc Longley came down to a forest blockade in 1997 and spent a night up a karri tree. We remember him being so tall, it was like half of him was hanging off the end of the platform and he had to have his figure 8 locked as he came down so that he didn't descend too fast. Here he is, 24 years on, speaking truth to power about the incredible value of our South West forests.
Posted by WA Forest Alliance on Wednesday, 10 February 2021
Bushwalking in Denmark Western Australia
Bushwalking is a popular activity in Denmark WA whether you're a local or visitor. The short and long walks in and around Denmark Town, the river and the 'mountains' are extraordinary, and are mostly through the beautiful and special forests. Ensure you're PREPARED when going on short or long walks. This video is GREAT. Have a watch >>
The advice from the Parks and Wildlife Service, and from all of us, is to minimise your impact. This means; sticking to established trails, plan and prepare, and BE SAFE and courteous. This way you stay safe while enjoying your walk and can focus on enjoying yourself. Here's a few useful links: PARKS: SAFETY, PARKS: PLAN AHEAD
What are the best Forest Walks in Denmark, Western Australia?
There are several more popular forest walks in Denmark Western Australia for the novice or experienced walker in and around Denmark Town and along the Wilson Inlet, and long-distance walks which span for days. The Bibbulmun Track (long-distance) and the Mokare Heritage Trail (short, easy trail) along the Denmark River are the most popular. Here are some of the others:
This majestic Inlet is divided from the ocean by a sandbar which covers the opening much of the year. Visit The Wilson Inlet
This majestic Inlet is divided from the ocean by a sandbar which covers the opening much of the year. Visit The Wilson Inlet Map
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 the history and flora and fauna. Visit Harewood Forest Walk
Spectacular elevated views over William Bay National Park and Ratcliffe Bay. Plus an amazing view east along the Nullaki Peninsula. Visit Monkey Rock
Located a kilometre north of Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks at the eastern side of William Bay National Park. Visit Tower Hill
Forests in Denmark WA
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 the history and flora and fauna. Visit Harewood Forest Walk
The Bridge is easily accessed by driving south along the river on Hollings Drive where you will find parking spaces with picnic tables and a gazebo. Heritage Trail starts here. Visit Heritage Rail Bridge and Trail
Named after an aboriginal tracker and chieftain the Mokare Heritage Trail winds along the east and west side of the Denmark River. Visit Mokare Heritage Trail
Located a kilometre north of Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks at the eastern side of William Bay National Park. Visit Tower Hill
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
Top 5 Tree Species in Denmark WA
Karri (Eucalyptus diversicolor)
One of the world's tallest hardwood trees, reaching up to 90 meters. Dominates the landscape and provides habitat for various wildlife. Karri trees have played a significant role in the history of the region, as early European settlers used the timber for construction, railway sleepers, and even ships.
Tingle (Eucalyptus jacksonii and Eucalyptus guilfoylei)
Unique to the region, with large girth and buttressed bases. Important for biodiversity and sheltering native wildlife. Tingle trees have been revered by the local indigenous Noongar people, who consider them culturally significant and a symbol of the connection between the land and their heritage.
Red Tingle (Eucalyptus jacksonii)
Endemic to the Valley of the Giants and Walpole Wilderness Area, known for its impressive size and ecological value. These ancient trees have survived for hundreds of years, making them living witnesses to the region's history and environmental changes.
Marri (Corymbia calophylla)
Iconic eucalypt species found alongside Karri and Tingle trees. Supports native fauna and provides nectar for honey production. Marri trees have a unique feature known as "honkey nuts" or "red gum nuts," which are large woody capsules containing seeds and are often used in decorative crafts by local artisans.
Sheoak (Allocasuarina spp.)
Well-adapted to sandy soils and coastal environments, valued for wood applications and contributes to the region's ecosystem balance. Sheoak wood was historically used by the indigenous Noongar people for making tools and weapons, showcasing its cultural significance throughout history.
The MOST POPULAR walk in Denmark Western Australia is the Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk, featured below. Ths paid walk is incredible and like nothing else on earth.
Places nearby or related guides:
All of the Beaches in Denmark WA are on the Great Southern Ocean. Check them out. Visit All Beaches in Denmark WA
Map of Beaches in Denmark Western Australia. Includes some of the most beautiful beaches on the south coast. Visit Denmark Beaches Map
National Parks and Reserves in Denmark Western Australia. Visit Denmark National Parks
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 offer spectacular views over the southern ocean. Visit Ocean Beach
This majestic Inlet is divided from the ocean by a sandbar which covers the opening much of the year. Visit The Wilson Inlet
This majestic Inlet is divided from the ocean by a sandbar which covers the opening much of the year. Visit The Wilson Inlet Map
Almost completely sheltered from the waves of the Great Southern Ocean, Greens Pool is a paradise. Visit Greens Pool
Giant rocks shaped like elephants stand together facing into the waves of the Great Southern Ocean. One of the most visited places on the Rainbow Coast. Visit Elephant Rocks
Inspiring lookout and beach offering spectacular views of William Bay from the east. A favourite local beach. Visit Lights Beach
Anvil Beach is a beautiful beach on the south side of Nullaki Peninsula on the Great Southern Ocean. Visit Anvil Beach
The Bibbulmun Track stretches from Kalamunda in the Perth hills through the entire Denmark Region to the Southern Terminus in Albany. Visit Bibbulmun Track
The birdlife along the Rainbow Coast is amazing and includes several species of birds which can be found no where else on earth. Visit Birds in Denmark WA
A commercial fishing site and not a tourist site. The beach is best visited after 3.30pm as advised by the sign. Visit Crusoe Beach
Take a stroll through Denmark Western Australia and explore the town and experience the history and culture of Denmark WA. Visit Denmark Town 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 the history and flora and fauna. Visit Harewood Forest Walk
In Madfish Bay an island rests close to the shore. The waves at this beach come from two different directions. Visit Madfish Bay
Mazzoletti Beach stretches from Greens Pool in the East by foot to Parry Beach in the West. Almost the entire coastal distance of William Bay National Park. Visit Mazzoletti Beach
Named after an aboriginal tracker and chieftain the Mokare Heritage Trail winds along the east and west side of the Denmark River. Visit Mokare Heritage Trail
Spectacular elevated views over William Bay National Park and Ratcliffe Bay. Plus an amazing view east along the Nullaki Peninsula. Visit Monkey Rock
Offering spectacular views across William Bay towards Green Pool and Elephant Rocks. Camping permitted if available. Visit Parry Beach
Peaceful Bay beach is split in two by the Irwin Inlet as it discharges into the ocean. Sand dunes abound. Visit Peaceful Bay
Prawn Rock Channel is located just north of Ocean Beach and you will drive right past it on your way to Ocean Beach. This secluded slow running channel of water is an ideal swimming spot. Visit Prawn Rock Channel
The south coast is perfectly placed to see winter rainbows. Like several times a day. The locals recognise this unique feature and fondly call it the Rainbow Coast. Visit The Rainbow Coast
Along the South Coast you will find some of the most fascinating forests in the world including jarrah, karri, red and yellow tingle forests. Visit Southern Forests
