Monkey Rock
in the Denmark Region
Exploring the Majestic Monkey Rock: An Unforgettable Adventure Awaits above the treetops!
Monkey Rock is a magnificent rock formation high above Lights Beach, about 8km from Denmark town, within the Mount Hallowell Reserve. The walk to Monkey Rock is moderately steep, and is available to walk all year round, taking approximately 30-40 minutes to conquer its heights. With its perfect blend of excitement and tranquility, this hike caters to a wide range of adventurers, from seasoned hikers to curious explorers. This 1.6km circuit trail forms part of the Bibbulmun Track, which winds its way from the city of Albany in the east all the way to the WA’s capital city Perth in the north.
Finding Your Way
From Denmark Town, follow Ocean Beach Road and take a right turn onto Lights Beach Road, a short and scenic drive east of Lights Beach. Keep a keen eye out for the sign and small carpark for Monkey Rock, on your right side. If you reach Lights Beach, then you’ve come too far so just backtrack a bit and then look for the sign on your left!
You can also reach Monkey Rock on Lights beach Road, coming off the South Coast Highway. This will bring you past the entrance road to Lights Beach, and then you’ll see the small sign for Monkey Rock on your left. If you reach the intersection for Ocean Beach Road then you’ve come too far, so just backtrack a bit and then look for the sign on your right!
Protecting our Forests
Leave the Monkey Rock carpark, and you’’ come to the Dieback Cleaning Station. Dieback refers to a serious plant disease caused by a root-rotting pathogen, which affects various native plant species, particularly the Karri and Marri forests, leading to their decline and possible death. Dieback poses a significant threat to the unique biodiversity and ecosystem of our region. Please use this Dieback Station, to clean off your shoes before you hike, to safeguard our forests and prevent any potential spread of pathogen threats.
The Path Awaits
Once you set off on the hike, follow the footpath meandering through a forest of lush Karri and Marri trees. As you approach the rock section of the trail, to reach the summit with ease, stick to the trail until you reach the highest point near the back of the granite rock. The path will level off and continue along, as part of the Bibbulmun Track.
Awe at the Pinnacle
Once on the rock, you'll find steps that assist in navigating the more challenging sections and guide you to the summit, where an amazing series of views await! You’ll see endless trees, the Wilson Inlet, the Great Southern Ocean, Nullaki and many of our beautiful beaches, it is well worth the climb. Relax for a while at the top and take in the beauty of Denmark's nature from above the treetops!
Hike; come prepared
A Word of Caution: As with any thrilling adventure, it is essential to exercise caution. Keep in mind that Monkey Rock does not have guard rails, making it important to proceed with care and attentiveness at all times. If you have young adventurers accompanying you, be extra vigilant to ensure their safety. Keep in mind that in the wet months, the trail can become waterlogged, making the climb more challenging. Always ensure you are packed for your hike, have enough water, snacks and clothes to keep you warmth. If it's windy or raining we'd advise NOT to go up. The rocks can be dangerous, so be careful.
Enjoy the views east over the Wilson Inlet, Ocean Beach and Nullaki Peninsula as well as the views west over William Bay National Park! The great expanse of the Southern Ocean fills the horizon. Brilliant. Click here to see a Monkey Rock Map.
Other places to visit in William Bay National Park, Denmark WA:
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
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
Offering spectacular views across William Bay towards Green Pool and Elephant Rocks. Camping permitted if available. Visit Parry Beach
From the lookout you can see the forested hills of William Bay National Park. Visit Parry Inlet
Located a kilometre north of Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks at the eastern side of William Bay National Park. Visit Tower Hill
With beautiful turquoise waters the waterfall cascades from the heathland onto the beach and out to sea. Visit Waterfall Beach
Map of William Bay National Park including Greens Pool & Elephant Cove Visit William Bay National Park Map
