Bluff Knoll

Bluff Knoll is the highest point in the south-west of Western Australia and is situated in the Stirling Range.

It is 1,095 m above sea level, ^{[citation needed]} and is one of the very few places that snow has been reported in Western Australia, with snow falling usually once a year. The most recent 'heavy' snow was recorded on October 6, 1992 when 20 cm of snow was recorded and light snow was seen down to the car-park (450 m above sea level).^{[citation needed]}

Local Aboriginals of the Qaaniyan and Koreng people, who wore kangaroo skin cloaks in cold weather, called the mountain Pualaar Miial, or "great many-faced hill." The mountain is often shrouded in a mist which curls around the peaks and floats into the gullies. Local Aboriginals called this "Noatch," an evil spirit of the dead. [1]

Climbing Bluff Knoll takes three to four hours on a 6 km return track, and can be achieved by anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. It is important to be well prepared for the trek, especially in the colder months as many people have been exposed to the cold weather during climbs. Water is essential during summer as dehydration is a common problem for hikers. Many rescues have been performed by the local FESA State Emergency Service (SES) units from Gnowangerup and Albany. Hikers who fall and injure themselves may be unable to return to the base unaided. They may also become fatigued or fall victim to the elements. It is possible to ascend the face of the bluff with rock climbing equipment, or abseil down it, though it is very dangerous and preparation is vital.

The view from the summit encompasses the Stirling and Porongurup mountain ranges, as well as the coast near Albany.

Bluff Knoll is visible from Albany, along with Toolbrunup.

See also