Day 9 · Sep 15
Valley of the Giants
Walpole-Nornalup, Western Australia
A treetop walk through 400-year-old red tingle trees in ancient karri forest.
The story
Why it's special
The Tree Top Walk lifts you 40 metres into the canopy of one of the few remaining red tingle forests on earth — trees found only in this small corner of south-west WA. Below, the Ancient Empire boardwalk weaves between hollow-buttressed giants up to 16 metres around.
History & background
Red tingle trees (Eucalyptus jacksonii) are relicts from when the continent was part of Gondwana. The walkway opened in 1996 after years of damage from people climbing inside the hollow trunks; the structure now allows visitors a near-zero-impact view of the canopy.
What to expect
The Tree Top Walk is a gently sloping 600m steel walkway that sways slightly in the wind. The Ancient Empire boardwalk at ground level is wheelchair-friendly and weaves between the most photogenic trees in the forest.
Wildlife & nature
Listen for red-tailed black cockatoos and western rosellas. Quokkas live in the area but are rarely seen; brush-tailed possums emerge at dusk.
Cultural significance
The Walpole region is part of Minang Noongar country. The forest has long been a place of cultural and spiritual importance and seasonal harvest.
Gallery
Through the lens
Best experiences
What you came for
Tree Top Walk
40m above the forest floor — feels like floating.
Ancient Empire boardwalk
Walk inside the hollow trunk of a 400-year-old tingle.
Walpole-Nornalup inlets
Mirror-flat water perfect for a paddle.
Conspicuous Cliff
A short drive south — wild coast and whale watching in season.
Photographer's guide
Best photography spots
Mist in the karri canopy from the highest platform.
Conspicuous Cliff beach for golden cliffs and crashing surf.
Travel tips
Travel tips
- Buy tickets online to skip queues in school holidays.
- Mornings are quietest and the light through the canopy is best.
- Wear a warm layer — the forest stays cool even in summer.
- Combine with the Ancient Empire walk (included with your ticket).
Fun facts
Fun facts
- Red tingles grow nowhere else in the world.
- Their hollow bases are a survival adaptation against bushfire.
- The largest known tingle had a circumference of over 24 metres.
On the map
Valley of the Giants · Walpole-Nornalup, Western Australia
On the journey
Where it sits in the road trip
After days on the coast, the forest is a quiet, cathedral-like contrast — and a reminder of just how old this corner of the continent is.