For thousands of years, the plains surrounding Gnowangerup were inhabited by the Goreng Noongar people, as evidenced by stone tools still found along the creeks. In the mid-nineteenth century, sandalwood cutters established camps in the area, however, European settlement did not accelerate until the railway line from Tambellup was completed in 1912.
Gnowangerup proudly displays agricultural relics that reflect its history as a wheat and sheep farming community. The Gnowangerup Aboriginal Museum and Keeping Place documents the history of the indigenous people connected with the local Mission and Stirling Range, showcasing their use of the plains as hunting grounds over thousands of years.
Gnowangerup Attractions
Wild Gravel Trail
The Wild Gravel Trail offers riders a chance to explore the Great Southern Treasures at an unhurried pace. Passing through Gnowangerup and surrounding towns, the route winds along quiet gravel roads through farmland, historic railway settlements and wide-open landscapes, with views to the iconic Koi Kyeunu-ruff / the Stirling Range. Designed for gravel bikes and suitable for mountain bikes, the trail can be ridden over multiple days or enjoyed in shorter sections, with food and accommodation available along the way.
Aylmore Mineral Springs
These natural springs are set amongst bushland with a lovely picnic and BBQ area. The high iron content in the water accounts for the unusual colour and the springs flow at over 2 litres per second. Located along Park Road.
Gnowangerup Historic Centre
This centre contains displays, early photographs and a written history of the town and the district.
Open by appointment
Yougenup Road
(08) 9827 1267 or (08) 9827 1371
The Horsepower Highway
Take the scenic route to the Stirling Ranges along the Broomehill-Gnowangerup Road to see the beginnings of the ‘Horsepower Highway’. These old & retired tractors have helped shape our rich farming heritage and will be a trip down memory lane for many. Use Google Maps to follow the tractors and learn their stories.
Steam Tractor
Imported in 1889, the tractor was used to clear much of the local countryside and is a well-restored relic of an era long gone. Located in the front garden of the Shire administration building on Yougenup Road.
Ned Kelly at the Gnowangerup Hotel
View the impressive wood carving of Ned Kelly at the front of the Gnowangerup Hotel. Learn the fascinating link between Gnowangerup, Glenrowan and the Ned Kelly story.
Gnowangerup Community Park
The park is a great place to stop and enjoy the surroundings. It features a playground, BBQ and toilet facilities among beautiful gardens.
Machinery Museum
Find examples of the early machinery the first settlers used to make a living for their families and bring prosperity to WA. On the corner of Strathaven and Yougenup Roads.
Gnowangerup Aboriginal Museum and Keeping Place
This museum shows the history of the indigenous people associated with the local Mission and Stirling Range, who used the plains as hunting grounds for thousands of years. Email [email protected] to book a viewing.
Accommodation
Gnowangerup Caravan Park
Book online
P: (08) 9827 1007
E: [email protected]
Gnowangerup Hotel
(08) 9827 1013
Murray’s Bed and Breakfast
0400 884 505
Mt Trio Bush Camp and Caravan Park
P: 0499 714 704
W: www.mttrio.com.au
Food
Gnowangerup IGA
P: (08) 9827 1109
Gnowangerup Hotel
P: (08) 9727 1013
Gnowangerup Roadhouse
P: (08) 9827 1239
Little Groves Cafe & Wares
P: 0428 271 098
Visitor Information
Shire of Gnowangerup
Yougenup Road
P: (08) 9827 1007
www.gnowangerup.wa.gov.au
Yougenup Centre & CRC
47 Yougenup Road
P: (08) 9827 1635
