The Warren Blackwood Stock Route is a 345km long-distance bridle trail stretching through the forests, farmland, rivers, and coastal landscapes of the Southern Forests & Valleys region of Western Australia. While the trail offers an unforgettable equestrian adventure through some of the South West’s most beautiful and historically significant landscapes, parts of the route are remote and self-reliant and require careful planning before travelling.

Riders are encouraged to thoroughly prepare themselves, their horses, and their equipment before commencing any section of the Warren Blackwood Stock Route.

Trail Difficulty & Rider Experience

The Warren Blackwood Stock Route is recommended for experienced riders and horses with previous trail riding and overnight camping experience. Riders should be confident navigating long distances, variable terrain, forest tracks, gravel roads, and remote sections with limited facilities and phone reception.

The trail includes:

  • Long-distance riding sections between campsites
  • Forest and gravel road riding
  • Remote and self-reliant sections
  • Variable weather conditions
  • Limited mobile phone coverage in some areas
  • Shared-use and road crossing sections

Riders should ensure both horse and rider are physically prepared for multi-day riding conditions before undertaking the trail.

Suggested Ride Durations

The Warren Blackwood Stock Route can be completed in smaller sections or as a full end-to-end adventure depending on rider experience, horse fitness, and available time.

Suggested ride durations include:

  • Weekend trail sections: 1–3 days
  • Multi-day regional rides: 4–7 days
  • Full Warren Blackwood Stock Route experience: approximately 10–14 days

Many riders choose to explore shorter sections around Nannup, Bridgetown, Manjimup, or Quinninup before undertaking the full route.

Best Time of Year to Ride

The best time to ride the Warren Blackwood Stock Route is generally:

  • Autumn (March – May)
  • Winter (June – August)
  • Spring (September – November)

During these seasons, cooler temperatures and greener landscapes provide more comfortable riding conditions for both horses and riders.

Summer riding may be impacted by:

  • High temperatures
  • Limited water availability
  • Elevated bushfire risk
  • Total Fire Bans and trail closures

Riders should always check current weather forecasts, fire conditions, and trail alerts before travelling.

Weather & Seasonal Conditions

Conditions along the trail can change quickly depending on weather and seasonal factors.

Trail users should prepare for:

  • Rain and muddy conditions during winter
  • Hot and dry conditions during summer
  • Fallen trees or debris after storms
  • Smoke or bushfire-related closures during fire season
  • Variable water availability

Before riding, check:

Horse Fitness & Preparation

The Warren Blackwood Stock Route is designed for fit, healthy horses capable of carrying riders over long distances and varied terrain.

Before commencing the trail:

  • Ensure horses are adequately conditioned for multi-day riding
  • Check shoeing or hoof condition
  • Carry basic horse first aid supplies
  • Ensure tack is properly fitted and in good condition
  • Monitor horse hydration and recovery regularly
  • Plan realistic daily distances

Riders should also carry sufficient feed and supplements where required, particularly through remote sections of the route.

Suggested Packing Checklist

Rider Essentials

  • Helmet and appropriate riding gear
  • Wet weather clothing
  • Warm layers
  • First aid kit
  • Food and cooking supplies
  • Water bottles or hydration packs
  • Maps/navigation equipment
  • Torch or headlamp
  • Mobile phone and charging equipment
  • Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) where possible

Horse Essentials

  • Halter and lead rope
  • Feed and supplements
  • Water containers
  • Horse first aid kit
  • Rug appropriate for conditions
  • Picket or containment equipment if required
  • Hoof care equipment

Riders should ensure all equipment is securely packed and suitable for long-distance trail riding conditions.

Navigation & Trail Signage

The Warren Blackwood Stock Route includes trail marker signage throughout the route; however, riders should not rely solely on signage for navigation.

Riders are encouraged to:

  • Carry downloadable maps and trail information
  • Carry GPS or navigation devices where possible
  • Familiarise themselves with planned routes before departure
  • Carry backup navigation methods in case of device failure

Some sections of the trail are remote with limited services and limited phone coverage.

Biosecurity & Horse Health

Trail users play an important role in protecting the natural environment, local farmland, and horse health along the route.

Riders are encouraged to:

  • Ensure horses are healthy before travelling
  • Remove manure from campsites where practical
  • Carry weed-free feed where possible
  • Clean gear and equipment before entering the trail
  • Respect private property and biosecurity signage
  • Report sick or injured animals where appropriate

Good biosecurity practices help protect the long-term sustainability of the trail and surrounding agricultural areas.

Water Recommendations

Water availability varies across the Warren Blackwood Stock Route and some campsites only provide non-potable rainwater or limited seasonal supply.

Riders should:

  • Carry sufficient drinking water for both rider and horse
  • Treat non-potable water before drinking
  • Plan water resupply points carefully
  • Carry additional water during warmer months

As a minimum recommendation:

  • Riders should carry enough water for a full day of riding between campsites
  • Additional emergency water reserves are strongly recommended

Never rely solely on natural water sources along the trail.

Leave No Trace Principles

Help protect the Warren Blackwood Stock Route for future generations by following Leave No Trace principles:

  • Take all rubbish with you
  • Respect wildlife and natural environments
  • Stay on designated trail routes
  • Leave gates as you find them
  • Minimise impacts at campsites
  • Respect private property and neighbouring landholders
  • Use campfires responsibly and only where permitted
  • Clean up after horses where possible

The Warren Blackwood Stock Route is managed through strong partnerships between local governments, DBCA, community organisations, and landholders. Responsible trail use helps ensure the trail remains safe, sustainable, and accessible for future riders.

Safety & Emergency Information

The Warren Blackwood Stock Route includes remote and self-reliant sections with limited access to services and mobile phone coverage.

Before travelling:

  • Inform someone of your itinerary
  • Carry emergency contact information
  • Carry a PLB where possible
  • Check trail conditions and alerts
  • Ensure horses and riders are adequately prepared

In an emergency:

  • Dial 000 if mobile coverage is available
  • Activate your PLB if required
  • Follow emergency services and evacuation instructions

Riders undertake the trail at their own risk and are responsible for their own safety, preparedness, and decision-making while travelling along the route.