Western Australia · Attraction
Gloucester Tree
Towering karri fire lookout
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Rising 61 metres from the forest floor in Gloucester National Park, the Gloucester Tree is one of the tallest fire lookout trees ever used in the world. Named after the Duke of Gloucester following his 1945 visit, it was pegged with metal spikes to allow fire spotters to climb to the top platform. The tree and surrounding park are free to enter and explore.
The Gloucester Tree began life as a working fire lookout in 1947, when rangers would climb the spiralling metal spikes to scan the karri forest canopy for smoke. The lookout hut perched 53 metres up gave sweeping views across the southern forests. An engineering assessment identified structural concerns with the platform, temporarily closing the climb while a major refurbishment programme gets underway.
While climbing is temporarily unavailable, the site remains a rewarding destination. Visitors can picnic beneath the giant karri, take short walking trails through the forest, and watch for native birds including black cockatoos. The tree sits just 3 km from the centre of Pemberton, making it an easy half-day outing alongside the town's other attractions.
Gloucester National Park requires no entry fee, which makes it one of the most accessible natural landmarks in the south west.
Where to stay
Holiday parks near Gloucester Tree.
2 options via our booking partner
Fonty's Pool Caravan Park and Chalets
17.9km away
RAC Karri Valley Resort
19.2km away
Bookings handled by our partner Parkbooker. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Scenic views
Lookouts near Gloucester Tree.
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