Three Western Australian Hikes Tested with the Hikelite 26L

The Bald Head Walk takes first place as our favourite hike in Western Australia. It’s one of those hikes that keeps rewarding you from start to finish. My partner Tommy and I have actually done it three times already - that’s how spectacular it is! Following a narrow granite ridgeline into the Southern Ocean, it feels as though you’re walking along the spine of the coastline, with dramatic views of the ocean on BOTH sides for almost the entire hike. The changing colours of the water, the rugged cliffs and the constant ocean breeze make every kilometre breathtaking. Literally.

I carried the Hikelite 26, which was the perfect size for a day hike. It comfortably fits my camel bag, camera, snacks and an extra layer without feeling bulky. The excellent ventilation was especially welcome on the more exposed sections, and the lightweight design made scrambling over the granite much more enjoyable. The final viewpoint at Bald Head is one of the most spectacular in Western Australia and is well worth the effort!

The last time we hiked it, our timing wasn’t quite perfect and we found ourselves caught in a sudden downpour. Luckily, the Osprey pack’s integrated raincover came to the rescue, keeping all my gear dry while we embraced the moody coastal weather. After all, a little rain only makes those ocean views feel even more dramatic!

2. Bluff Knoll - Stirling Range National Park, WA

Bluff Knoll may be one of Western Australia’s most popular hikes, but it absolutely lives up to the hype! It was actually the very first hike we did when we arrived in Western Australia, and it immediately changed the way we saw the state! I had always imagined WA as endless flat landscapes, so discovering the Stirling Range was a real surprise.

The climb takes you through constantly changing scenery, from low shrubland to rugged, rocky, almost alpine-like terrain, before reaching the highest summit in the Stirling Range. On a clear day, the panoramic views stretch far across the surrounding landscape, with other impressive peaks rising in the distance, including Toolbrunup Peak, Talyuberlup Peak and Mount Magog.

Stretching more than 60 km from east to west and located only around four hours’ drive from Perth, the Stirling Range feels like a hidden mountain world in a state better known for its coastline and outback. On cooler mornings, you will be rewarded with clouds drifting through the valleys below, creating an almost magical atmosphere.

The Hikelite 26 was ideal for this hike, carrying everything I needed without adding
unnecessary weight on the steeper sections. The comfortable back panel and supportive fit made the climb feel easier, while there was still plenty of room for warm layers, water and lunch. Reaching the summit after the final rocky ascent is an unforgettable experience and easily one of WA’s must-do hikes!

3. Escarpment Trail - Kennedy Range National Park, WA

In July 2026, we had the opportunity to explore one of Western Australia’s lesser-known gems: Kennedy Range National Park, an ancient red sandstone mesa rising from the plains of the Gascoyne hinterland, one thousand kilometres from Perth! One of our favourites was the Escarpment Trail. After a steady rocky climb to the top of the sandstone plateau, you’re rewarded with sweeping views across the vast outback, layered cliffs and Temple Gorge Campground far below. Visiting at sunrise made the experience even more special, the bright red glow on the escarpment was so intense it almost looked as though the cliffs were on fire!

All of the walking trails in the park are graded Class 3 or 4 (moderate to difficult). While none of them are technically challenging, the harsh desert and the almost omnipresent scorching heat favour setting out in the early morning. All the trails begin from Temple Gorge Campground. Another walk I’d highly recommend is Honeycomb Gorge (8 km return), especially at sunrise, when the soft morning light brings the landscape to life.

For all of the walks in the park, the Hikelite 26 was once again my go-to day pack. It comfortably carried my 2 L hydration bladder, snacks, sun protection and camera gear, while the breathable back panel kept me cool during the climb. It even had a handy spot to clip my cowboy hat when I wanted to look less like an outback cowboy and more like a serious hiker! :) It was the perfect companion for exploring this remote and spectacular corner of Western Australia.