Adventures are funny things. On one hand they can be the most stressful and demanding of trips filled with challenges and less than flattering scenarios however they can provide strong, fruitful memories that last a lifetime and encourages those who experience it to continue their journey. For a number of years now I have wanted to explore the Stirling Ranges, located about 400km south east of Perth; it is WA’s one and only taste of a serious mountain range. The idea of going into the mountains yearns adventure. Climbing steep and ambitious tracks high above the ground with spectacular views many have never experienced before. Throughout the national park there are six major peaks however the most notable of climbs is Mt. Bluff Knoll standing 1099m above sea level, is the climax of any trip to the region.

My adventure began with a battle to find time to make the journey before the harsh summer months as it would make the trip a lot more tiresome. After a few last minute decisions our trip was decided, compacted into one action packed weekend. Ideally 4+ days would be more than enough to make the most of the Stirling Range National Park however we had to squeeze things in and we would be in for one cracker of a good time. Ideally the best time to go is between August and November when temperatures and weather activity is moderate and all the flora is in full bloom. Plus if you want to stay in comfortable accomodation there is the Stirling Range Retreat and also a caravan park located not to far outside the park, though if on a budget or have a thirst for the great outdoors check out Moingup Springs, the only camp grounds in the park and great location between all the major peaks.

From a photographic perspective the Stirling Ranges were a dream to shoot, my only recommendation is to pack a longer lens so you can focus in on these majestic, almost mythical cliff faces. To get there, the drive is quite pleasant, going through a number of farming, country towns before reaching the turn off to the Stirling Ranges. Arriving in the early hours of the afternoon we felt it was necessary to get the trip underway by training on an ‘easier’ climb of Mt Hassell at 856m peak. Though what we came to realise is the less popular trails are actually harder to climb than Bluff knoll, the loose rock under footing makes it a far more challenging climb than Bluff Knoll which is stepped most of the way up. Each view however at the top is truly something special. At least 45 minutes has to be considered as an appropriate time spent at the top to take in your surroundings and prepare for the trip back down.

Favourite photo from the Mt Hassell hike

Back at camp for the night at Moingup Springs by dusk most people were in their tents keeping to themselves. After dark most of the creepy crawlies and wildlife come out to play but isn't too much to worry about. The one hassle with this location is the amount of road trains that come throughout the night, it's a very popular route and can cause some disruption. To be honest this was one of our first camping experience so it was a tough night but all in all we survived and were ready to tackle Mt. Bluff Knoll.

Arriving in the car park at the base of the hike, we were one of the first to arrive just after dawn broke. After a quick breaky we got ready for the climb. Our top tip is to carry as little as you need but be sure to have a good water supply and snacks to keep your energy up. As we began our hike and the day drew on more and more people arrived in the carpark, it was a beautiful day for the climb but the wind was strong as we neared the top so I would also say to never attempt in anything less than perfect conditions.

It is truly a tough climb and can take a while however I saw people of all ages make it to the summit so if you take your time anyone can experience this adventure. Nonetheless I was here for photography and little did I know the views I would see on the way would create my favourite photos from the trip.

I have a strong love for these photos because I believe they truly encapsulate the beauty of the region, in its vast scale and magnitude. Whenever I see these photos I imagine the adventure that got us there and the memories that I cherish. The landscape is nothing that I have ever experienced before, especially in WA though I'm sure as I explore the world, I will be able to see many different views like this one.

I can not recommend enough a trip to the Stirling Ranges and I hope one day I can head back after only spending a weekend there. Even adding an additional trip to Albany would be high on a list of things to do while in the region. Hiking is also a lovely way to enjoy nature and put life's biggest worries into perspective. Special thanks to Kayla for joining me on this quick escape, I couldn't have done it without you.

Michael Evans