Before You Step Onto the Bibbulmun or Ride the Munda Biddi – Read This
- Jun 10
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 30
Western Australia’s Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail are world-class experiences.
They draw people from all over the world—and for good reason.
But once you move beyond the more popular sections and into the Southern Forests around Pemberton, things change quickly. These are remote, working landscapes. Beautiful, yes—but not always forgiving.
Over the years, we’ve worked with thousands of walkers and riders moving through this region. Most are well prepared. Some learn along the way.
And a few wish they had planned just a little more before they started.
It’s Not Just a Walk or Ride
One of the biggest misconceptions is that these trails are simple to navigate day by day.
They’re well-marked—but that doesn’t mean they’re easy.
Distances between camps can be longer than expected (those hills can be a killer!), and something as simple as a tree down across the track can add hours to your day
Weather can shift quickly, even within a day
Mobile reception is limited or non-existent in sections. Your phone can chew through its battery trying to find a signal, so consider switching off mobile data or using aeroplane mode until you need it.
Tracks can change with conditions, especially for riders
You’re not stepping into a park—you’re stepping into a long-distance journey.
What People Underestimate
🚶♂️ Walkers on the Bibbulmun Track
Carrying too much weight early on.
Not planning water stops properly or checking tank information.
Assuming they'll "see how far they get" each day.
Underestimating the impact of blisters – a hotspot ignored in the morning can become a trip-ending problem by lunchtime. (Fixomull has saved many a walk!)
Forgetting the basics: enough snacks, toilet paper and a few creature comforts can make all the difference.
🚴 Riders on the Munda Biddi
Underestimating soft sections, sand and fatigue.
Mechanical issues in remote areas.
Not allowing enough time between stops.
Forgetting that a fallen tree, detour or changing conditions can quickly turn a short ride into a much longer day.
Derailleur hangers can be trip-enders. The Southern Forests' karri timber is incredibly strong. We've seen hangers bend, bend and then snap after an impact. Because they are often unique to individual bike brands and models, replacement parts aren't always available in small regional towns. Consider carrying a spare hanger specific to your bike.
📍 For both
No clear plan for where the car is – or how to get back to it.
Limited communication if plans change.
Relying on patchy reception or basic maps. Your phone battery can disappear quickly while searching for signal, so consider switching off mobile data or using aeroplane mode when it's not needed.
Not having an exit plan. A tree down, injury, fatigue, severe weather, mechanical failure or simply a change of plans can happen to anyone. The goal isn't just to finish – it's to enjoy the journey and return home safely.
The Bit No One Talks About: Logistics
This is where most trips either run smoothly—or become stressful.
Before you even start, you need to think about:
Where you’re starting and finishing
How you’re getting back to your vehicle
What happens if you need to exit early
Who knows your plan
It’s not the exciting part of the trip—but it’s the part that makes the whole experience work.
Where Can I Leave My Car?
Please note that parking arrangements, availability and suitability can change over time, and trail users should make their own enquiries and satisfy themselves that any arrangements meet their individual needs and circumstances.
A few options in and around Pemberton include:
🚗 Pemberton Caravan Park – offers a paid vehicle parking service for walkers and riders. It's best to book ahead by contacting them directly on (08) 9776 1500.
🚗 DBCA Yard – another option sometimes used by trail users. We recommend contacting us or DBCA beforehand to discuss current arrangements on (08) 9776 1207
Pemberton old school carpark - unmanned and un managed - but a popular place. Towards the end, under the gaze of the seniors village is preferred.
Please do not park at the Pemberton Visitor Center as there is limited parking.
As arrangements can change, we always recommend confirming your parking plans before setting off. Having a plan for where your vehicle will be waiting at the end of your journey can remove a lot of unnecessary stress.
Getting Around Without a Car
Did you know there is a public transport option linking the Southern Forests?
Routes SW1, SW2 and SW3 travel through to Pemberton, but there is another service, the Transwa GS3 coach service that travels further - between Pemberton, Northcliffe and Walpole, providing an important connection for walkers, riders and visitors travelling through the region. Advance bookings are essential.
You can view the route and current timetable here.
If transport logistics are adding stress to your planning, authorised transport operators servicing these remote sections of the Southern Forests are limited. We regularly assist walkers and riders between Donnelly River and Deeside Coast Road, helping people plan transfers and contingencies so they can focus on enjoying the journey. Not as an Uber or Taxi - but as a charter service registered with both DBCA and the Department of Transfer.
A Simple Step That Makes a Difference
We encourage all walkers and riders to use the **AdventureSmart app before heading out.
It allows you to:
Lodge your trip details
Share your plans with a trusted contact
Access information if you need assistance
It’s a simple step—but one that can make a real difference if plans change.
Trail Tip: Download the Trails WA App
If you're exploring the Karri Trails, Bibbulmun Track or Munda Biddi Trail, the free Trails WA app is a great planning tool. It provides trail information, maps and inspiration to help you make the most of your adventure in Western Australia.
A little preparation before you set off can make all the difference once you're out on the trail.
Doing It Properly
There’s no one “right” way to experience these trails—but there is a difference between being prepared and hoping for the best.
Some people are highly experienced and fully self-supported.
Others prefer to:
Pre-plan their transfers
Have support along the way
Know there’s someone local they can contact if needed
That’s where we come in.
We’ve been supporting walkers on the Bibbulmun Track and riders on the Munda Biddi for over 20 years—handling transfers, logistics and those last-minute changes that inevitably come up.
It’s not about making it easier—it’s about making it smoother.
Exploring the Karri Trails?
Whether you're tackling the Bibbulmun Track, riding the Munda Biddi, or making the most of Pemberton's new Karri Trails network, we can help with local logistics and transfers. Join other riders and spend more time on the trails.
Private MTB Shuttle Sessions
Exclusive transfers for groups of up to six riders, allowing you to ride at your own pace.
Contact us to discuss your plans or use the links above to book online.
Final Thought
The Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail offer something genuinely special. Time, space, and a connection to the landscape that’s hard to find elsewhere.
A little preparation goes a long way in keeping that experience enjoyable for the right reasons.
Because once you’re out there—you want to be focused on the journey, not the logistics.
👉 Planning your section?
Download the Adventure Smart and Trails WA apps, let someone know your plans, and consider organising your transfers before you arrive. We can assist with Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi transfers, Karri Trails shuttle services, pickups and local logistics throughout the Pemberton and Northcliffe region.
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