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Collie to Balingup
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We head off through spiky Xanthorrhoeas into a misty morning. This more demanding day is longer, with many ups and downs and one extended steep climb. The showery weather means we spend some time pushing through wet vegetation on overgrown sections of track.
With little elevation gain and loss, Murray to Dookanelly is very doable for leisurely hikers: a delightful relaxing walk along the river. The diversion to the causeway at Driver Rd is worth visiting, with a well-used campsite on the opposite bank perfect for a rest.
With a distance of 23 kilometres, hot weather and a series of steep climbs late in the day, Dookanelly to Possum Springs is the toughest day thus far. Still, there are plenty of amazing wildflowers and special moments during the day.
Possum Springs to Yourdamung is a highlight. Not only are there numerous wildflowers and landscapes including sandy swamps and grass tree forests, but elevation gains are modest, so the going is good even in the heat.
A short and easy day, Yourdaung to Harris Dam again boasts many amazing wildflowers and orchids, with another fire that necessitates a diversion.
From Harris Dam camp to Collie the track passes primarily through jarrah as well as a little plantation eucalypt and farmland, plus Harris Dam’s inviting parkland with picnic tables. The richly diverse Westralia Conservation Park adjacent Collie township is a highlight: botanists and orchid enthusiasts, you’ll love it!
Once again we walk mainly through native forest, plus a little pine plantation. We rejoice in healthy banksias and varied vegetation.