I Climbed WA’s 65m Tall Dane Evans Bicentennial Tree

Please note! Unfortunately, the Western Australia Government has recently closed both the Dave Evans Bicentennial and Glouscter tree climbs for 12 months! You can still visit the site and see the tree from the ground, but no climbing is allowed for now.

 

The Dane Evans Bicentennial Tree, is a one-stop shop for a jaw-dropping, heart-racing, and knee-jerking experience. Rose left her stomach on the ground and went for a 65m climb straight up.

 

We Are Explorers acknowledge that this adventure is located on the traditional Country of the Bibulmun/Piblemen people who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Quick Overview

Your nerves won’t be the only thing that’ll be tested at The Bicentennial Tree – prepare to face your fear and test your limits. You’ll find the tree in Western Australia hidden within the Warren National Park. It’s only 15 minutes from Pemberton and 90 minutes from the Margaret River Region.

Climbing is completely FREE, except for parking.

The Bicentennial Tree History

The Warren National Park acknowledges the Bibulmun and Piblemen people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the 65m Bicentennial Tree has grown.

Between the 1930s and 1940s, the giant Karri trees in Warren National Park were used as a resource to protect the community and surrounding area. The tallest trees were decked out with wooden pegs and climbed to surveil for potential fires.

Ever since the metal pegs were installed for recreational climbing to celebrate Australia’s bicentenary in 1988, it’s been a highly visited and popular tourist destination. Yep, you’ve done your maths correctly, you’ll be climbing metal pegs that have been there for over 35 years! 

The tree is skinnier than you’d expect for one that rises so tall

How to Find The Giant Bicentennial Tree Climb

Tucked away in the Warren National Park, near Pemberton, is this hair-raising activity. It’s about 15 minutes drive from the Pemberton Visitor Centre, where you can purchase a national park pass for $12. If you forget, no stress, you can also pay for parking once you arrive at the tree.

Take the Vasse Highway, towards Nannup, which leads you into the forest along old Vasse Rd until you reach The Dane Evans Bicentennial Car Park. You aren’t required to have a 4WD vehicle to reach the tree, however the road is gravel so proceed with caution.

Toilets are available at the base of the tree and if you end up doing the climb you’ll likely need to use them after your nerve-wracking descent! The ground is flat, so it’s technically possible for wheelchair-users to view climbers from the base of the tree, but note that the ground isn’t paved, it’s gravel.

Read more: Spend a Weekend at Warren River National Park in Pemberton

We’re not sure who’ll look smaller, the people left on the ground or those disappearing into the tree tops?

Where to Stay in Pemberton

Pemberton has an array of options for you to stay and take in the fresh air of the southwest. From bespoke cabins, motels, and caravan parks, the options are yours for the choosing.

If you’re looking for a stay for a duo, why not embrace a rustic-style chalet hidden within the Karri trees on Donnelly Lake 30 minutes from Pemberton? Or take the family to an old-fashioned cottage, where everyone can reconnect and be WILD at Treenbrook Cottages. If you’re just passing through while road-tripping, there are some free campgrounds around, but be sure to do your research on Wiki Camps, as some are 4WD access only.

It’s definitely in your best interest to pre-plan your stay in Pemberton. As with many small towns, the attitudes of locals are laid back and relaxed. If you’re in doubt just ask, and have a yarn with those around you because it’s the locals that have all the raw knowledge of this beautiful town and place.

Opt for somewhere closer to the ground than this viewing platform!

Essential Gear For Visiting The Bicentennial Tree

The most important thing to bring to this activity isn’t the spare pair of undies… but your inner adrenaline junkie that’s willing to take on any WILD adventure! You won’t regret it!

• Enclosed shoes, hat, and water bottle
• A drone for some epic sky-high shots – make sure you follow drone regulations!
• GoPro mounted on a helmet or chest strap so that you can keep your hands free for climbing
• A backpack for all your gear
• Snacks – carry these in your backpack so you can enjoy them with a view at the top platform!
• An extra pair of undies – you may need them after your climb!

Nerves of steel = essential

What It’s Like To Climb the Dane Evans Bicentennial Tree

From the ground looking up, you’ll see 165 outward-pointing pegs which circle the ginormous tree, and a thin strip of chicken wire acting as somewhat of a barricade. Your next step is to lift your, I’m sure now uncharacteristically-heavy foot onto the first peg and start your climb.

As you feel your heart beating out of your chest on each step, you’ll soon realise that one wrong move could be fatal. You’re entirely free climbing, there’s no safety harness or other protective gear. But, good news – there’s a halfway platform, with a caged safety point to take some deep breaths.

Now feels like a good time to freak out but you’ve got this…maybe

Based off the engraved names on the tree, it seems most climbers only make it to the first platform. There are significantly fewer carvings at the final lookout point, the 65m mark way up in the sky. The higher you climb means the more branches you’ll need to push past and the tougher it is to look down.

Your prize for reaching the top is definitely bragging rights. But more important than that is the spectacular 360° views and the feeling of being one with the giants. While you’re in complete awe, take the time to listen to the breeze, birds, and leaves swaying into the cage surrounding you.

YOU DID IT!

To make things that extra bit more terrifying, you’re effectively FORCED to look down at the pegs on your long climb back to Earth. Yes, back to Earth, ’cause it feels like you made it Mars on the climb up! Avoid disaster on the descent and make sure you keep a close eye on the metal lifesavers while you pick your way back down.

It’s never been a better time to get outdoors and be WILD! Here’s your chance to take your breath away, like, literally! The 65m of Bicentennial Tree is waiting for your visit.

Do you dare?

Other Things To Do Around Pemberton WA

The Dane Evans Bicentennial Tree is the most frequently visited attraction in the area. But it’s definitely not the only thing to do while you’re exploring this underrated town in WA.

• If you loved the first climb, you’ll love the second – The Gloucester Tree, not quite as tall but just as fun!
• Take a hike and enjoy a picnic at Big Brook Dam
• Have a dip in Pemberton swimming pool – a magical, historic pool constructed in the 1920s
• Relax after a day of exploring and visit Mountford Winery and Tangletoe Cidery

FAQs Dane Evans Bicentennial Tree

Is the Dane Evans Bicentennial Tree the tallest tree that you can climb in Australia?

Yes. The Bicentennial Tree is the tallest tree that can be climbed in Australia. The Pemberton Visitor Centre reckons it’s the tallest one in the whole world. Pretty epic.

Has anyone ever died falling from the Bicentennial Tree?

Nope. Please don’t be the first. Only climb as high as you feel comfortable and remember there’s no shame in watching from the bottom.

How many pegs do you need to climb to reach the top of the Bicentennial Tree?

You’ll need to scale a whopping 165 metal rungs to reach the top lookout platform.

What happens if you get scared and can’t climb down?

What goes up must come back down my dudes. Take it one rung at a time. People can usually be talked down, even if it takes awhile.

What is a bicentenary?

A bicentenary event is something that occurs every two hundred years. Australia’s bicentenary commemorates the arrival of the 11 ships of the first fleet in Botany Bay and Sydney Cove on Bidegal and Gadigal Country.

Want more adventures in WA’s South West?

• 4 Best Indigenous Tours in WA’s South West
• Hiking from Bibbulmun Track & Pemberton to Northcliffe
• Collie: A Guide to Visiting South West WA’s Coal Town Turned Adventure Hub