Spider Walk

Overview

Spider Walk is the headline move on the Hancock Gorge route—a narrow, high-friction shimmy above a shallow stream that makes you feel like you’re in the park’s core. It’s a Class 5 adventure: steep ladder descent, ledge shuffling, some wading, and careful footwork to a photogenic finish at Kermit’s Pool.

What the Route Is Like

• Start from the Weano Recreation carpark, walk to the rim and descend sturdy metal ladders to the gorge floor.
• Follow the polished rock corridor downstream, alternating between rock‑hopping, ledge traverses and sections of water.
• In the Spider Walk proper, the walls pinch in; most people “bridge” with hands and feet on both sides to stay out of the flow.
• The route ends at Kermit’s Pool, a deep, very cold emerald pool. A rope and signs mark the Class 6 area beyond—do not proceed. Return the same way.

Why It’s Special

The choreography here—ladder, ledges, and the namesake bridging—packs a lot of fun into a short distance. The sculpted, colorful canyon walls make it a superb photo spot, and Kermit’s Pool is a rewarding turn‑around point when conditions are good.

Best Time to Visit

• Season: Cooler, drier months April–September are the sweet spot for hiking. June–August is typically coolest and most comfortable.
• Summer (December–March) brings extreme heat and potential flash floods that can close gorges. In dry spells, expect little flow; late in the season water can be murky or stagnant.
• Daylight: Start early to beat the heat and avoid queues in the Spider Walk section.

Safety and Gear

• Expect slick surfaces; move slowly with three points of contact.
• Wear sticky‑soled shoes (reef/approach shoes are popular). Bring a dry bag for phone and keys and carry 2–3 L of water per person.
• Go with a partner, turn back if uncomfortable, and never ignore closures. Always check current gorge and road status on the WA Parks and Wildlife (DBCA) alerts before setting out.

Amenities & Access

• Access is via the Weano Recreation (day‑use) carpark, the shared jump‑off for Hancock Gorge.
• Facilities there include parking, toilets, and picnic shelters; there’s no potable water in the gorge.
• Major park roads to Hancock/Weano are now sealed, improving 2WD access, though some tracks elsewhere in the park remain unsealed.

Wildlife & Geology

You’re walking through ancient, wavy banded rock that glows in changing light—part of what makes the gorge so photogenic. Around the park, visitors sometimes spot dingoes, rock wallabies, and a variety of birds; keep your distance and pack out all rubbish.