Albany’s popular Bald Head walk trail closed for upgrades until August

Albany’s Bald Head walk trail will be closed for six months while upgrades are carried out with the help of a helicopter.

The 12.5km return trail in Torndirrup National Park is expected to remain closed from Isthmus Hill from this week until August.

Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions spokesman Luke Coney said the trail had deteriorated through erosion and heavy use.

“Bald Head trail has become a very popular trail over recent years and what we’re trying to do is make it as sustainable as possible into the future so that future generations can enjoy it,” Mr Coney said.

Low impact stairs and walkways designed by DBCA landscape architect Nic Camerer will raise the trail above eroded areas, stabilise the sandy surface and protect the surrounding environment.

Native flora will be planted in some areas to help reduce erosion and increase habitat.

The DBCA has also consulted with the Menang Noongar community to introduce new cultural signage on the Bald Head walk trail and across the national park.

Mr Coney said about 200 helicopter air-lifts would be needed to deliver equipment along the Flinders Peninsula as it was not accessible by road.

“The helicopter allows us to shift the heavier loads and a lot of loads very quickly on to the site,” he said.

“It’s a cost effective method of getting materials on to remote sites.”

The Bald Head walk trail is rated as a grade four hike by Trails WA, requiring a “high degree of fitness”.

The upgrades are being funded by the WA Government’s $15 million commitment to the Great Southern Adventure Trails Project.