Wildflowers
WildflowersAfter winter rains the limestone ranges and gorges around Exmouth erupt in mulla mullas, golden wattle and the scarlet of Sturt's desert pea.
Cape Range is an arid corner of WA’s famous wildflower belt, yet it supports around 630 flowering species. When conditions are right, a good autumn-to-winter soaking softens the red landscape with purple-pink mulla mullas, papery white and yellow everlastings, golden wattles, and the striking red-and-black Sturt’s desert pea.
What makes it special is the backdrop. Unlike the open everlasting carpets further south, Ningaloo’s wildflowers are scattered through dramatic country — the walls of Mandu Mandu and Yardie Creek, the switchbacks of Charles Knife, and the slopes above the Gulf.
Bloom intensity is highly rainfall-dependent: a wet year can produce vivid displays, a dry one only sparse flowering. Expect to look closely rather than for endless fields — the reward is in the variety and the setting.
When to go
Late winter to early spring (~June–September, peak August–September; Sturt’s desert pea from late winter). Strongly rainfall-dependent — check local conditions.
See the full when-to-visit calendar →Where
- Cape Range National ParkThe "Cape Range Wildflower Trail" self-drive itinerary strings together the best displays.
- Charles Knife CanyonScenic drive and gorge slopes.
- Mandu Mandu GorgeGorge-walk wildflowers in rugged terrain.
- Yardie CreekGorge walls and creek surrounds.
- Osprey BayCoastal plains within the park.
How it works
- Mostly self-drive and walk — the "Cape Range Wildflower Trail" is a suggested touring itinerary, not a marked trail; combine the canyon roads, short gorge walks and lookouts over 1–2 days.
- Best in the cool of early morning or late afternoon; gorge walks are rocky, so wear sturdy shoes.
- Park entry fees apply; some roads (Charles Knife, Shothole) aren’t suited to caravans.
More info
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