Your guide to hiking the Wadjemup Bidi
Walk along the Wadjemup Bidi and connect to the native environment that surrounds you.
5 minutes
Hiking trail
Whilst you’ve probably heard of cycling around Wadjemup / Rottnest Island, another amazing way to experience the island is by foot. Rottnest Island has an island-wide network of walk trails that make up the incredible Wadjemup Bidi.
The Wadjemup Bidi is a series of walk trails that take in the spectacular coastal headlands, stunning inland lakes and breathtaking attractions all over the island. The 45 km trail is made up of five sections, with each unique section displaying culturally and environmentally significant landmarks.
What’s in a name? The name for the island in the Noongar language is Wadjemup , which means ‘place across the water where the spirits are’. ‘Bidi’ in Noongar means ‘trail’ or ‘track’.
These connected walk trails allow you to traverse the island either in separate stages, or if you’re keen for an epic adventure, as a whole. The entire trail is 45 km, so you’ll need to spread your hike over a few days if you want to do the whole thing. There are five sections, so you can also just choose to do one or two walks during your time on the island.
Discover the Salt Lakes on the Gabbi Karniny Bidi
Distance: 9.5 km loop / 3-4 hours
Where to start: Thomson Bay
Highlights
- Lakes system
- Migratory birdlife
- Ocean views
- Stunning beaches
This beautiful walk trail meanders through the lake systems and back along the northern coastline — offering you a taste of everything Rottnest Island has to offer. Check out Vlamingh Lookout for some of the best views of the island. As you wander through the beautiful inland lake systems keeping your eyes peeled for seasonal migratory birdlife and of course, quokkas. Don’t miss a stroll along the lakes boardwalk which provides the facade of “walking on water”. Head back along the coast passing Little Parakeet Bay, Geordie Bay, The Basin and Pinky Beach before arriving back at the Thomson Bay settlement.
Wadjemup Lighthouse in the distance
Bird habitat
Lakes boardwalk
Experience the Northern Beaches on the Karlinyah Bidi
Distance: 5.7 km one way / 2-3 hours
Where to start: Little Parakeet Bay (stop 18) or Rocky Bay (stop 13)
Highlights:
- Spectacular coastline
- Native wildlife
- Beautiful beaches
This spectacular trail strolls past beautiful sandy beaches, calm swimming lagoons and eventually, more rugged, wild parts of the island. You’ll traverse the northern coastline, passing incredible beaches like Little Armstrong Bay and Catherine Bay. Stop at City of York to learn about the shipwreck, and then take in the serrated reef that was the cause of its destruction. Carry on past Ricey Beach, past the gorgeous Stark Bay and finish your hike at Rocky Bay.
Expansive coastal views
City of York Bay
Salt lakes
Coastal rocks
Parakeet & Little Parakeet Bay
Eastern osprey stack
Trail at Ricey Beach
Explore West End on the Ngank Wen Bidi
Where to start: Narrow Neck (stop 13)
Distance: 7.8 km loop / 3-4 hours
Highlights:
- Rugged and unspoilt coastline
- Vantage point for spotting marine life
This loop trail circumnavigates the spectacular West End of the island. The trail links Narrow Neck and Cape Vlamingh, the more remote and rugged section of the island. Enjoy secluded beaches like Marjorie Bay and Mabel Cove before arriving at Cathedral Rocks where you can spot our resident long-nosed fur seals from the viewing platform. Stop and admire the waves crashing through the natural arch at Cape Vlamingh and keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales and eagles overhead.
Relax on Salmon Bay along the Wardan Nara Bidi
Distance: 9.8 km one way / 3-4 hours
Where to start: Rocky Bay (stop 13) or Porpoise Bay (stop 4)
Highlights:
- Salmon Bay
- WWII gun and tunnels
- Wadjemup Lighthouse
This beautiful trail offers the best of both worlds, taking you from the stunning coastline of Salmon Bay, Parker Point and Little Salmon Bay through to the middle of the island to explore the WWII gun and tunnels. Admire the huge osprey stack at Salmon Point and keep your eyes peeled for our resident osprey. Enjoy incredible views from the Wadjemup Lighthouse and traverse your way back past the world-class surf breaks at Strickland Bay. Don’t miss Peter Farmer’s Mammong Dreaming sculpture and listen to the story told by Traditional Owner Kerri Anne Winmar via the audio sign.
Wadjemup daisies at Parker Point
Hiking the coast
Mammong sculpture
Oliver Hill
View from Wadjemup Lighthouse
Narrow Neck
Little Salmon Bay
Caution: Train in Operation
A train is active on the island. Pedestrians and cyclists, please be cautious, look both ways at railway crossings and keep off the tracks.
Uncover Bickley Battery on the Ngank Yira Bidi
Distance: 10 km one way / 3-4 hours
Where to start: Thomson Bay or Oliver Hill
Highlights:
- Coastal views
- Bickley Battery
- Train ride back to the settlement
Start at the settlement and head out towards the south east corner of the island. As you walk this trail, you’ll enjoy impressive ocean, coastal and inland views, as well interpretive signage teaching you about the history of Wadjemup. Enjoy panoramic views from the Jubilee Observation Post and don’t miss “Beachcomber”, the first sculpture installation on the island, made from 80 percent recycled material. This historic trail will take you to Oliver Hill to explore the remnants of coastal defence systems installed during WWII. Enjoy a guided tour if you want to know more, and for an extra adventure, head back to the settlement on the train.
Hiking Ngank Yira Bidi
Battery remains
Jubilee Hill
Bickley Battery from the sky
Oliver Hill
Bickley Bay
Guided walking tours
If you’re not sure where to start or like the sound of expert commentary paired with your scenic walk, why not join a guided tour with The Hike Collective? Their knowledgeable guides will show you the best of the Wadjemup Bidi in an engaging and relaxed group setting. With multiple tours to choose from, including overnight retreats, it’s the perfect adventure for both hiking enthusiasts and beginners alike.
If you’re looking to learn more about different areas of the island, you can also join a free walking tour with the Rottnest Voluntary Guides. Whether you're keen to meet the wildlife or discover more about the history of the island, you’re sure to find a tour and passionate guide to suit your interests. The tours are run regularly throughout most days and are a great addition to a day trip or to enhance an extended stay. For more information, pop in to say hello to the friendly guides at the Information Booth in the main settlement.
Tips for a time well spent
Make your visit even more meaningful with helpful advice from those in the know.
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