The Pinnacles Desert is one of Western Australia’s most charming natural attractions, with its many limestone pillars rising from the sand.
But how did Pinnacles come to be? And when is the best time to visit Nambung National Park to see these rock formations?
Nestled in the heart of Nambung National Park, the Pinnacles Desert is one of the most remarkable places Western Australia offers.
History of the Pinnacles Desert
It owes its name to thousands of natural columnar formations ranging in height from 1 metre to 3.5 metres. The rocks have a rugged, weathered appearance due to the yellow sand that is spread in different directions when the columns are formed.
The Pinnacles are believed to be between 25,000 and 30,000 years old. However, the Pinnacles Desert only became widely known in the 20th century, and Nambung National Park itself was created only in 1994 when three protected areas were merged.
They are made of limestone from broken seashells and corals brought inland and exposed to the elements. However, the formation of these unusual shapes remains a mystery. One theory suggests that they result from massive deposits of limestone eroded by weathering over time. Another theory is that they were initially tree forms or roots hardened by the sand’s calcium and covered with limestone.
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Pinnacles Attractions, Nambung National Park
Although the main attraction of the Pinnacles is its impressive formations, there is plenty to do in the Nambung National Park.
If you want to learn more about the history of the natural landscape and the processes behind the formation of the Pinnacles Desert, visit the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre. It is often one of the first stops for tourists visiting the local national parks in Western Australia.
There are also many other attractions to discover during your stay. The national park is home to many Australian wildlife, including several species of kangaroos, dingoes, possums, emus, and red foxes. You may also encounter reptiles, including bobtails and snakes. Nambung National Park also borders the Indian Ocean to the west. Here, you can often see sea lions, dolphins, and maybe even humpback whales if you come here during their migration. But remember not to disturb Australia’s precious wildlife!
The area’s natural beauty is further enhanced by the many rare plants and flowers that grow here and the beautiful beaches of Hangover Bay and Kangaroo Point. You can also admire the Nambung River, which flows through the park’s natural limestone caves.
Activities available in Nambung National Park
Pinnacles and Nambung National Park is located near the charming coastal towns of Cervantes and Jurien Bay. Here, you will find many other natural attractions and the opportunity to participate in various excursions and tourist attractions, including water sports and skydiving!
You can also take the opportunity to visit the Southern Beekeepers Nature Reserve north of Nambung, an area with fascinating flora and fauna to snap.
The Pinnacles Desert is also within easy reach of Western Australia’s capital city, Perth.
Getting to Pinnacles
Travellers starting in Perth tour should take Wanneroo Road north, which transitions into Indian Ocean Drive. There is a signposted turn-off to Pinnacles on the right.
This scenic drive along the Coral Coast will take about two hours. Alternatively, you can drive 2 km south of Cervantes to reach the border of Nambung National Park. From here, it is another 14 km to the Pinnacles car park.
Visit the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre for more information.
FAQ
What are the Pinnacles?
The Pinnacles are thousands of natural limestone pillars, 1–3.5 metres tall, formed from ancient seashells and corals within Nambung National Park.
How old are the Pinnacles?
They are estimated to be between 25,000 and 30,000 years old, though their exact formation process remains a mystery.
What wildlife can I see in Nambung National Park?
You may spot kangaroos, dingoes, emus, reptiles, and marine life like sea lions, dolphins, and migrating humpback whales.
What else can I do besides visiting the Pinnacles?
Explore the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre, enjoy beaches like Hangover Bay, visit nearby towns Cervantes and Jurien Bay, and try activities such as water sports and skydiving.
How do I get to the Pinnacles from Perth?
Drive north on Wanneroo Road, which becomes Indian Ocean Drive, and follow the signposted turn-off; the trip takes about two hours.
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