Shannon National Park

Introducing Shannon National Park

The 535-sq-km Shannon National Park is on the South Western Hwy, 53km south of Manjimup. The Shannon was once the site of WA’s biggest timber mill (which closed in 1968), and exotic plants, including deciduous trees from the northern hemisphere, are some of the few reminders of the old settlement.

The 48km Great Forest Trees Drive takes in pretty country – tune in to 100FM for a commentary or buy the Great Forest Trees Drive ($15) from DEC. It’s a one-way loop, split in two by the highway; start at the park day-use area on the north of the highway. From here you can also take an easy 3.5km walk to the Shannon Dam (checking out the quokka observation deck on the way), and a steeper 5.5km circuit to Mokare’s Rock, where there is a boardwalk and great views; further along, the 8km-return Great Forest Trees Walk crosses the Shannon River. Off the southern part of the drive, boardwalks give access to stands of giant karri at Snake Gully and Big Tree Grove.

There is one fine and sizable camping area in the spot where the original timber-milling town used to be, and the self-contained bunkhouse Shannon Lodge is available for groups of up to eight people. For information and bookings contact DEC (08-9776 1207) in Pemberton.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009