About the Trail

The Warren Blackwood Stock Route is more than a long-distance bridle trail, it’s a journey through the history, landscapes, and pioneering spirit of the Southern Forests & Valleys region.

Following the original stock droving routes used by pioneer farming families, the trail retraces the paths once travelled by stockmen moving cattle from inland farming areas toward the South West coast. Along the route, riders travel through landscapes that helped shape the region’s agricultural history, from towering Karri and Jarrah forests to rolling farmland, river valleys, and coastal wilderness.

The trail celebrates the stories of the pioneering families and communities who established farms, settlements, and transport routes throughout the South West. Interpretive signage, historical stories, and digital trail information help bring this heritage to life, allowing riders to experience the trail not only as an outdoor adventure, but also as a connection to the region’s rich cultural history.

Campsites & Facilities

The Warren Blackwood Stock Route has been designed to support both short rides and extended multi-day adventures. Along the route are eight equine-friendly campsites located approximately 26km–36km apart, providing riders and horses with key facilities and rest points.

Campsites include:

These campsites include facilities such as:

  • Sleeping shelters
  • Toilets
  • Horse yards
  • Water access
  • Designated camping and rest areas

There are also self-reliant stopovers located at:

These remote stopovers provide a place to rest while requiring riders to carry and manage their own supplies and equipment.

Trail users are asked to respect all facilities, clean up after themselves and their horses, and help preserve the campsites for future visitors.

Water & Fire Information

Water is available at many of the established campsites; however, riders should always carry sufficient water supplies for both themselves and their horses, particularly during warmer months. Water availability may vary seasonally and should not be solely relied upon.

Campfires are only permitted in designated fire pits where provided and must comply with all current fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban requirements. Trail users are responsible for checking local fire conditions before travelling and should never leave fires unattended. During high fire danger periods, sections of the trail may be closed for public safety.

Safety & Emergency Procedures

The Warren Blackwood Stock Route is a remote and self-reliant trail experience. Riders are encouraged to plan thoroughly before commencing their journey.

Before travelling:

  • Carry maps, navigation tools, and emergency contact information
  • Inform someone of your planned route and expected travel times
  • Carry a first aid kit for both rider and horse
  • Take sufficient food, water, and emergency supplies
  • Carry a mobile phone or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) where possible

In an emergency:

  • Dial 000
  • Activate your PLB if required
  • Contact the relevant local authority once safe

Trail conditions can change due to weather, fire, maintenance works, or environmental factors. Riders should always check for current trail alerts, closures, and conditions before travelling.

The Warren Blackwood Stock Route is managed in partnership by the Warren Blackwood Alliance of Councils, the Shires of Bridgetown-Greenbushes, Manjimup and Nannup, together with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, ensuring the route remains safe, sustainable, and accessible for future generations to enjoy.

The trail was constructed as a Warren Blackwood Alliance of Councils project and funded by the Shires of Bridgetown-Greenbushes, Manjimup and Nannup, the South West Development Commission, Lotterywest and the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.