The Pinnacles are distinctive limestone pillars located in Western Australia’s Nambung National Park’s desert.When the region was submerged under the sea about 25,000–30,000 years ago when they developed. The shells of various marine animals gathered on the bottom, layer after layer, as sea levels fluctuated. They underwent a process known as lithification, which turned them into limestone. After all these years, the ruins have produced one of nature’s most fascinating landscapes. These naturally occurring limestone formations are all different in size and shape, spread across the Pinnacles Desert. While some are only as tall as your knee, others are taller than 3 metres and tower over you!
Things To Do At The Pinnacles Desert
Before exploring all the fantastic activities available to you, there is one thing you won’t be able to do at all. Kindly refrain from scaling the pinnacles themselves! We must protect these structures, and they are unsafe. Moreover, you can do plenty of other things in the Pinnacles Desert.
1. Visit The Desert Discovery Center
The well-equipped tourist centre is the starting point for exploring this geological wonderland. Documentaries and interpretive exhibits will teach you everything there is to know about the area’s natural history. It’s best to pause here before continuing your exploration because knowing how the pinnacles were created makes the experience even more meaningful. Additionally, park rangers can help with inquiries and offer advice on improving your stay. Once the tour is complete, you can pause and enjoy a picnic.
Location: Pinnacles
Timing: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Must Read: Bondi Beach
2. Drive Through The Pinnacles Desert Trail
Image Credit:Dhx1 for wikimedia commons
The 4.5km driving trail begins at the Discovery Center. There are several stops along the way to get closer to the Pinnacles. You can enjoy the views while exploring this area. Finishing takes about thirty minutes, but you should give it an hour. Along the way, make several stops, especially at the Lookout!
Location: Nambung National Park
Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
3. Visit The Watchtower
Image Credit:RuggyBearLA for wikimedia commons
The viewing platform, located in the centre of the driving loop, has wheelchair access. The breathtaking views will make you feel like you’re in a completely different place. The pillars, which are always pointing up, provide a beautiful contrast with the surrounding sand and blue sky.
Location: Near Doha – Qatar
Timing: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Suggested Read: Royal National Park
4. Take A Stroll Along The Walking Track
You can use the driving trail for a relaxing walk. You’ll stop several times to enjoy the vistas, making for an exciting trip that takes at least 1.5 to 2 hours. However, the Desert View travel is an option if you don’t want to travel that far in the desert. This trail starts in the Discovery Center and is 1.6 kilometres in length. A clearly marked trail offers an alternative viewpoint of the park. Take enough water on any stroll you choose, especially in the heat. Additionally, always heed the signage.
Location: Australia Coral Coast
Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
5. Take In The Scenery And Wildlife Of Nambung National Park
Image Credit:Wander-earth for wikimedia commons
This place has much to see than only the unusual limestone formations! Several plant species survive in these conditions and grow in the sand dunes. Additionally, a range of birds, such as parrots, emus, and honeyeaters are found here. Keep a lookout for reptiles like skinks and geckos!
Location: Nambung National Park
Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Suggested Read: Sovereign Hill
Food In The Pinnacles Desert
The Pinnacles region of Western Australia is a desert and the food is appropriate for the region. Pinnacles are known for the following traditional foods:
- Kangaroo meat: Kangaroo meat is commonly consumed throughout Australia and is low in fat and readily available. It has a slightly grainy flavour and is often served on steaks or hamburgers.
- Emu meat: Popular in Australia, emu meat is also lean and tasty. It has a slightly earthy flavour and is roasted or grilled.
- Pan: Made from flour, water and sometimes milk, the pan is a classic Australian bread. It has a crispy crust and dense texture that is usually cooked in a Dutch oven or over a campfire.
- Bush tomatoes: Native to the desert regions of Australia, bush tomatoes are small fruits. They are often used in sauces, chutneys and condiments for their tangy, slightly sweet taste.
- Quandongs: Originally from Australia, quandongs are a fruit that grows in the desert. They taste sour with a hint of sweetness and are often used in delicacies such as jams and chutneys.
Cost Of Travelling To The Pinnacles Desert
In Western Australia, the Pinnacles Desert is a well-known tourist destination and is reasonably priced. The Pinnacles Desert admission fee is AUD $15 per person; extra costs for activities or guided tours may apply. Depending on the type of lodging and the season, accommodation in the adjacent town of Cervantes can range from inexpensive to expensive. If you want the most incredible deals, booking in advance is best. Food and beverages can often be pricey due to the area’s remoteness.
Although not Australia’s most costly travel destination, tourists should budget for a reasonable amount to explore and take in the Pinnacles Desert’s exceptional natural beauty.
Further Read: Hidden Gems In Sydney
Some people may think that visiting The Pinnacles Desert is worthless and just another collection of gaudy rock formations in the desert. Some find it amazing to witness the thousands of old limestone Pinnacles that date back thousands of years. Book your trip to Australia and experience this remarkable place yourself.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: Chainwit for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About The Pinnacles Desert
Where is the Pinnacles Desert?
The Pinnacles are distinctive limestone pillars located in Western Australia. If you’re wondering where the Pinnacles Desert is, it is another name for the Nambung National Park desert. You can spend one to three hours here. This will grant you access to the Discovery Center, the Desert View Walk, and the driving path.
What is the duration required to hike through the Pinnacle Desert Australia?
Depending on how many stops you make and how long you spend in the Lookout, the Driving Trail may take 1.5 to 2 hours, while the Desert View Walk takes about 30 minutes.
What are some interesting facts about the Pinnacles Desert?
The Pinnacles are a reminder of Earth's past. These are naturally occurring limestone pillars. Another one of the interesting fact about the Pinnacles Desert is that these enormous, 3.5-meter-tall pillars are composed of seashells!
What is the admission fee to Pinnacle Desert Australia?
There is a $15 entry fee per vehicle if you want to drive a vehicle that can fit no more than 12 passengers. You may be positive that the money you provide will benefit a worthy cause. The money collected from admission fees goes toward supporting environmental preservation as well as the upkeep of the National Park's infrastructure.
What time of day is ideal for seeing the Pinnacles?
As long as you depart the National Park by 9 p.m., you are free to visit whenever you like. Go to the Pinnacles at dusk if you want to get some amazing pictures. After dusk, you can continue exploring the region. But don't forget to look up—from here, you can get some very breathtaking Milky Way views.
People Also Read:
Things To Do In Australia Sightseeing In Australia Famous Landmarks In Australia
Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.