Before setting out on the Warren Blackwood Stock Route, riders should check current trail conditions, weather, fire danger ratings, and any alerts or closures that may affect their journey.
The Warren Blackwood Stock Route travels through remote forest, farmland, national park, and coastal environments. Conditions can change quickly due to weather, bushfire risk, planned maintenance, fallen trees, flooding, or other hazards. Riders are responsible for checking current information before travelling and should be prepared to alter plans if conditions are unsafe.
Current Trail Status & Alerts
Alert 1
Fallen Trees Blocking Trail
Location: GPS: -34.570887, 116.434799
Direction: Heading north from Shannon Camp
Reference Point: Approximately 100 metres after turning left from Upper Shannon Road onto the bush track.
Alert Details:
Multiple fallen trees are currently obstructing the trail within the first 100 metres of the bush track.
The surrounding vegetation is dense and overgrown, making it difficult to safely bypass the fallen trees. Riders should expect the trail to be impassable at this location until clearance works have been completed.
Status: ⚠️ Trail Obstruction Reported
Advice: Exercise caution and consider an alternative route where possible.
Alert 2
Trail Obstruction
Location: GPS: -34.42516, 116.25521
Direction: Approaching Wheatley Coast Road from Quinninup
Reference Point: Entrance from Wheatley Coast Road.
A large fallen tree is currently blocking the trail within approximately 200 metres of the Wheatley Coast Road entrance near Quinninup.
The surrounding vegetation is dense but passable. Riders should exercise caution when approaching the obstruction and be prepared for limited options to safely pass around the fallen tree.
Status: ⚠️ Trail Obstruction Reported
Advice: Exercise caution and consider an alternative route where possible.
Alert 3
Muir Camp Entrance
Location: Muir Camp
Reference: Entrance into Muir Camp
A fallen log is currently obstructing the track leading into Muir Camp. The obstruction does not affect the trail but will prevent vehicles from accessing the camp via this entrance.
Vehicles can park at the Smeathers Road access point near the toilets.
Status: ⚠️ Trail Obstruction Reported
Advice: This obstruction does not affect the current trail. Vehicle access to Muir Camp is affected; use the Smeathers Road access point near the toilets for parking
Fire Danger & Seasonal Closures
Fire conditions can change rapidly across the Southern Forests & Valleys region, particularly during summer and periods of hot, dry, or windy weather.
Trail users should always check current fire danger ratings, Total Fire Bans, and emergency warnings before travelling. Sections of the trail may be closed during high fire risk periods, prescribed burns, bushfire activity, or where emergency services advise that access is unsafe.
Campfires are only permitted where designated fire pits are provided and must comply with all current fire restrictions.
Weather & Flooding
Heavy rain, storms, strong winds, and flooding may impact trail conditions. Riders should take extra care after wet weather, as some sections may become slippery, boggy, flooded, or unsuitable for horses.
Do not enter flooded areas or attempt to cross water where the depth, current, or ground conditions are uncertain. If in doubt, turn back and seek updated local advice.
Planned Maintenance
The Warren Blackwood Stock Route is maintained through a partnership between the Warren Blackwood Alliance of Councils, the Shires of Bridgetown-Greenbushes, Manjimup and Nannup, and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
From time to time, sections of the trail or individual campsites may be temporarily closed for maintenance, vegetation clearing, signage works, erosion repairs, campsite upgrades, or other safety improvements.
Check Before You Ride
Before starting your journey, riders are strongly encouraged to check:
- Emergency WA for bushfire, storm, flood, and emergency warnings
- DBCA Park Alerts for national park and forest access updates
- Local weather forecasts for Nannup, Bridgetown, Manjimup, Quinninup, Shannon, and Walpole
- This page for Warren Blackwood Stock Route trail updates
- Visitor Centres for current local conditions and information
Report a Trail Issue
Trail users are encouraged to report hazards or maintenance issues via this form so they can be assessed by the relevant land manager.
Please report:
- Fallen trees
- Damaged or missing signage
- Flooded or unsafe trail sections
- Damaged yards, shelters, toilets, or water tanks
- Erosion or washouts
- Fire damage
- Unsafe access points
- Other hazards affecting rider or horse safety
When reporting an issue, please include the location, nearest campsite or trail marker, a description of the issue, and photos if safe to take.
Emergency Information
In an emergency, dial 000.
Mobile phone coverage is limited or unreliable in some sections of the Warren Blackwood Stock Route. Riders are strongly encouraged to carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), maps, first aid supplies, and enough food and water for themselves and their horses.
Always tell someone your planned route, expected arrival times, and when you expect to finish your ride.
The Warren Blackwood Stock Route includes remote and self-reliant sections. Your safety depends on preparation, current information, and making decisions based on conditions on the day.