Mount Augustus

Mount Augustus is technically classified as a 'monocline', a single asymmetric fold in ancient sandstone, rather than a true monolith. It rises 717 metres above the surrounding plain and 1,105 metres above sea level. The formation is made of sandstone and conglomerate that was originally deposited in shallow seas around 1,650 million years ago, then uplifted and tilted around 900 million years ago.

For the Wajarri people, Burringurrah is sacred and is connected to a Dreaming story about a young man who broke a tribal law and was speared, with the rock formed by his prone body. Several engraving and rock-painting sites are scattered around the base.

The summit walk is a 12 kilometre return climb that takes 6 to 8 hours. It is genuinely strenuous and not for inexperienced walkers, with significant exposure on the upper slopes. Easier walks include the Emu Hill Lookout and the rock-art sites around the base.

Mount Augustus National Park is extremely remote. The nearest town is Carnarvon, 350 kilometres west on the coast. The drive from Perth takes around 14 hours and the road is partly unsealed. Most travellers do the trip as part of a longer Pilbara or Coral Coast loop. The dry season from April to September is the only viable time. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 40 degrees.