Shannon National Park Section
Wild Southern Forests
About This Walk
The Shannon National Park section is the most remote and wild part of the Warren Blackwood Stock Route, stretching approximately 90 kilometres through dense karri and tingle forests in the D'Entrecasteaux region towards Broke Inlet near Walpole. This is serious back-country riding through some of the most pristine forest landscapes in Western Australia.
The trail passes through Shannon National Park — one of the largest karri forest reserves in the world — and the surrounding state forests. The sense of isolation is profound; for days, riders may encounter no one else on the trail, with only the sound of birds and wind through the giant trees for company.
Equine-friendly campsites along this section tend to be more basic and further apart, requiring careful planning and self-sufficiency. The trail eventually reaches the coast near Broke Inlet, where the D'Entrecasteaux National Park meets the wild Southern Ocean — a dramatic and fitting conclusion to the full Warren Blackwood Stock Route.
Trail Highlights
Trail Map
Practical Information
🌿 Best Season
Autumn (Mar–May) — best conditions and lowest fire risk
🐕 Dogs
No — National Park restrictions
♿ Accessibility
Grade 4 (Hard) — very experienced riders and fit horses required, self-sufficient
📍 Trailhead
Southern end of Pemberton section or access via Shannon road network
🥾 Walking Tips
- Full self-sufficiency required — remote section with limited support
- Carry at least 5 days of food and water for horse and rider
- Emergency communication device essential (PLB or satellite phone)
- Check all trail conditions and fire closures before departing
- Experienced riders and very trail-fit horses only