The Pinnacles is a fascinating natural attraction located almost 200km North of Perth in the Nambung National Park. By and large, it consists of a large number of limestone column-like pillars, surrounded by the sand of the Pinnacles Desert.
The Pinnacles consist of thousands of natural column-shaped limestone formations, varying in height up to around 4 metres. As a result of the wind blowing sand around the desert, the Pinnacles have taken on a rugged, weathered appearance.
Getting There
The Pinnacles lies almost 200km north of Perth and near the town of Cervantes. Given their location, you could do the Pinnacles as part of a day trip from Perth. Alternatively, you can visit them as part of a bigger drive, such as the Coral Coast drive from Perth to Exmouth. If you want to explore the area in more depth, there is accommodation available in nearby Cervantes.
If you are setting out from Perth, you head north on Wanneroo Road, and onward to Indian Ocean Drive. After about 2 hours, there is a turn-off to the right which takes you to the Discovery Centre. There is pretty good signage on the road, indicating the turn-off.
On the other hand, if you are staying in Cervantes, it is roughly a 15-minute drive to the south, again along Indian Ocean Drive.
Once you are there, you can park near the Pinnacles Discovery Centre. At the centre, you can learn about the processes that led to the formation of the Pinnacles.
The Pinnacles are located in the Nambung National Park, you will need to buy a national park entrance ticket. As with other parks, these are $17 entry per car (standard price). You can also show your park pass if you have one.
The Pinnacles
These Pinnacles are natural limestone structures standing as high as 4m. They are stunning to view, looking across an almost alien landscape. Looking across the desert, you see hundreds of the structures all around
Their formation began approximately 25,000 to 30,000 years ago when the sea receded. This left behind deposits of sea shells, from the creatures that used to live in the area. Over the years, coastal winds in the area removed the surrounding sand. The result is what we see today – pillars rising from the ground, exposed to the elements.
Discovery Centre
There is a Discovery Centre on arrival that can give you some history of what you are about to see. You can also get souvenirs and so on here.
Getting Around
There is a track around the Pinnacles allowing you to drive around the area. While this is not sealed, it is quite suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles. In fact, there are many to be seen as most people seem to use that option to get around. It is a well-marked track, with stones set along the edges. Every so often, there are parking bays so you can get out and walk around the area.
In addition, there is an optional spur track, that gives you additional views around the park.
Pinnacles
As you drive around, there are so many Pinnacles to see.
Walking Trail
While you are travelling around, you will come across a lookout area – Desert View. From here you can look out over the area. In addition, there is a special walking trail that commences from here.
