Mount Barker WA is a great destination for all types of travellers, with a wide variety of attractions and things to do. Known as ‘mountain country’ due to the fact that it sits nestled between two ancient mountain ranges, with the Stirling Range to the North and the Porongurup Range to the South. Besides being a popular spot for thrill-seekers and adventurers who want to be close to the mountains, there really is something for everyone in Mount Barker WA.
We’ve put together this list of the 12 best things to do in Mount Barker WA, from historic sites and scenic walks to outdoor adventures and unique experiences. Whether you’re coming for a day trip or an extended stay, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Mount Barker WA.
1. Enjoy the Stunning Surroundings at the Mount Barker Rotary Lookout
Visiting the Mount Barker Rotary Lookout is a must for anyone visiting Mount Barker to truly appreciate the beauty of the region. Located on the highest point of the Mount Barker Hill, the lookout offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Mount Barker broadcast tower.
From the top of the lookout you can take in stunning views in all directions. To the north is the Mount Barker wind farm, to the northeast is the impressive mountains of the Stirling Range, to the east is the Western ridge of the unique Porongurup Range and to the south are seemingly never-ending lowlands. On a very clear day it’s said you may even be able to get glimpses of the coast and the spectacular Southern Ocean.
When visiting Mount Barker WA, make sure to take some time to visit this majestic lookout and take in all its beauty!
2. Take on One (or All!) of the Nearby Stirling Range Mountains
For those who are looking for a more adventurous experience in Mount Barker WA, the nearby Stirling Range Mountains offer some incredible opportunities for a challenge. With multiple mountain hikes available ranging in length and difficulty, there is something for every hiker.
There are 6 climbable mountains in the Stirling Range; Talyuberlup Peak, Mount Hassell, Toolbrunup Peak, Mount Magog, Mount Trio and the super-popular Bluff Knoll. While majority of visitors travel to the Stirling Range to tackle Bluff Knoll, the highest peak in Southern WA, the other mountain trails are unique and memorable in their own right. The Stirling Range has a huge variety of unique flora and fauna, offering hikers the chance to not only challenge themselves but the opportunity to get out in nature and enjoy the beauty of the region.
No matter what type of hike you choose to take on in the Stirling Range, you’re sure to find an adventure that fits your skill level. With so many trails to choose from, there’s something for everyone in this stunning mountain range. So lace up your boots and get ready for an unforgettable experience when in Mount Barker WA!
Park entry fees are required for the Stirling Range National Park. At the time of writing this (February 2023) the price is $15 per standard vehicle (with 12 or less occupants).
3. Stop for a Sip at the Local Wineries
Enjoy some of the best wines in the Great Southern region, at the local Mount Barker wineries. From crisp whites and bold reds, to fruity rosés and sparkling varieties, you’ll find the perfect wine for you. Take part in wine tastings, go on guided tours of the vineyards and explore the stunning grounds of each winery. Some of the wineries also offer delicious meals so you can indulge yourself with wine and a bite to eat.
Below is a list of just some of the local wineries in the Mount Barker region:
- Plantagenet Wines
- Galafrey Wines
- West Cape Howe Wines
No matter which winery you choose to visit, you’ll be able to sample some of the best wines Mount Barker has to offer. Enjoy exploring the lush vineyards and picturesque landscapes of the region. Make sure to purchase a bottle of your favourite wine to take home with you.
4. Admire the Famous Mount Barker Murals
Head out on foot and enjoy the famous Mount Barker murals throughout the town! Take a stroll through the town and admire some of the stunning artworks that adorn the walls of shops and buildings. The vibrant colours and incredible detail of the mural pieces truly bring the town to life.
Each mural celebrates the unique human and geographical history of the area, telling Mount Barker’s story as you explore the town and meet the locals.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or are just looking to explore, make sure to check out the murals of Mount Barker! You’ll be able to appreciate the beauty of Mount Barker while also learning more about its culture and history.
5. Get Out in Nature at the Porongurup National Park
The other range that Mount Barker sits nestled beside is the picturesque Porongurup Range. Less than a 30 minute drive away, a visit to the Porongurup National Park is the perfect thing to do when you’re in Mount Barker WA.
There are several spectacular hikes you can enjoy in the Porongurup National Park, ranging in difficulty and length. Two of the most popular trails are the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk and the Nancy Peak and Devil’s Slide hike.
The Castle Rock Granite Skywalk is a 4.4km return hike taking you to the top of Castle Rock, a large granite rock that sits 670 metres above sea level! Taking on the hike and reaching the summit rewards you with incredible 360-degree views. If you’d like to learn more about the Castle Rock Granite Skywalk hike make sure to check out our post: Granite Skywalk Castle Rock: Everything You Need to Know.
The Nancy Peak and Devil’s Slide hike is one of our personal favourites. As an incredibly beautiful and varied 7.58km return hike that takes you through dense forest that’s scattered with wildflowers, to two stunning summits. All while passing multiple natural wonders. If you’d like to learn more about the Nancy Peak and Devils Slide hike make sure to check out our post: Nancy Peak and Devils Slide Hike, Porongurup: Everything You Need to Know.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, the Porongurup National Park has something for everyone. Take in the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings and make sure to take plenty of photos!
Park entry fees are required for the Porongurup National Park. At the time of writing this (February 2023) the price is $15 per standard vehicle (with 12 or less occupants).
6. Feast on Delicious Food
Mount Barker is a great destination for foodies who’ll be spoilt with choice. With pubs, restaurants, cafes and an award-winning bakery. There’s something delicious in Mount Barker that will satisfy your tastebuds. Below are just some of the incredible food spots in Mount Barker WA:
- Mount Barker Country Bakery – award winning pies and freshly baked bread, cakes and sweet treats.
- Little Bit of Barker – coffee, tea and cold drinks and a varied breakfast, lunch and dinner menu.
- Plantagenet Hotel – traditional pub meals and cold drinks.
- Wing Hings Chinese Restaurant – Chinese lamb, pork, prawn, beef, vegetable, rice and noodle dishes.
- Mount Barker Hotel Bar & Bistro – bar with a huge food menu of pizzas, burgers, parmis, pastas, seafood dishes, steak and more.
- Plantagenet Wines – a variety of premium wines and a small lunch menu with platters, pizzas, toasties and more.
- Go Fish & Chips – classic fish and chip shop with a variety of seafood available.
- Soup Salad Scoop – soft serve ice cream, soups, salads, fresh sandwiches, roast dinners, sweet treats and more.
- Nic’s Cafe and Catering – sweet treats baked in-house, coffees, smoothies, breakfast and lunch dishes.
7. Appreciate Mount Barker’s Thriving Artistic Community
Mount Barker has a thriving artistic community, so taking some time to appreciate the local art is the perfect thing to do when visiting. From galleries and art centres to sculptures and murals, there are plenty of places to explore.
Start with Corkescrew Gallery which is home to George Corke. George Corke is an impressive artist, with a keen eye for detail, who hand-makes beautiful timber and metal furniture pieces and sculptures in a workshop on his farm. Truly unique, a visit to Corkescrew Gallery is an unforgettable experience. The Corkescrew Gallery website says to phone 0400621866 to make an appointment.
Next is Art Chatter Gallery, a fantastic studio and exhibition space located within the Strike Me Pink Garden Nursery. The Art Chatter Gallery holds stunning art pieces from many incredible local artists with varying styles. The gallery is also a working spot for artists so if you’re lucky you may get to see an artist working their magic and creating an art piece right before your eyes. While you’re there the Strike Me Pink team have coffee, cakes, light lunches, giftware and plants on offer so make sure to check those out and grab a coffee and a bite to eat on your way out.
Finally, the Mitchell House Community Arts Centre which has a huge variety of art on display. From paintings and sculptures to ceramics and jewellery to resin and woodwork. Visiting the Mitchell House Community Arts Centre is truly remarkable, a must for art-lovers.
Whether you’re looking to buy something or just want to see the talent of the local artists, be sure to take some time to appreciate the local art in Mount Barker at one of the amazing spots mentioned.
8. Revisit History at the Old Police Station
History lovers can step back in time with a visit to the Old Police Station, which was first built in 1868. Passionately run by a team of volunteers from the Plantagenet Historical Society, the Old Police Station is now a museum dedicated to preserving the local history. Opened as a museum in 1968, today the Old Police Station is set on beautiful and well-looked after gardens and is packed full of fascinating artefacts, information and images.
Besides just the Old Police Station there are a number of other buildings to explore with a court house office which was added in 1919, a pioneer room which was built in 1971, the cottage and stables which were restored in 1985 and 1987, the Napier Creek one-teacher school which was moved to the museum in 1994, the second police station and court room which were acquired in 1997 and more.
You can spend hours at the Old Police Station learning about early settlement in Mount Barker and admiring the abundance of historical items on display; from restored farming equipment and dollhouses to a complete apple picking shed. A visit to the Old Police Station Museum is the perfect thing to do in Mount Barker if you’re interested in learning more about the local history and seeing some of the amazing historic buildings that were part of the town’s past.
9. Check Out a Local Market
Head to one of Mount Barker’s local markets to find a gift for yourself or someone you love. Support the locals, soak up the atmosphere and find something unique. Browsing one of the two local markets is the perfect thing to do in Mount Barker WA.
The Midway Markets are situated ‘Midway’ between Albany, Denmark and Mount Barker at the Narrikup Hall (hence the name, The Midway Markets!). The markets happens on the fourth Saturday of every month from 12pm-4pm. The stallholders vary each month but expect a unique variety of items for sale like; fresh produce, honey, jams, plants, artwork, candles, soaps, crystals and more. Just a 10-15 minute drive South of Mount Barker, the markets are definitely worth visiting when you’re in Mount Barker.
The Kendenup Town Hall Markets are another fantastic market ran just 15 minutes North of Mount Barker at the Kendenup Town Hall. They run on the second Saturday of every month from 9am-1pm. Similarly to The Midway Markets, the stallholders vary each month but expect a huge variety of incredible items for sale including things such as; candles, soaps, sweet treats, artwork and crafts, toys and more.
There’s always something new to discover at the local markets.
10. Go for a Swim at the Mount Barker Memorial Swimming Pool
Wondering what to do on a hot day in Mount Barker? The Mount Barker Memorial Swimming Pool is the perfect place to cool off and enjoy some swimming. The pool is located in the heart of town, making it easily accessible for anyone who wants to take a dip. The facilities are incredible with a 50 metre pool, a baby and toddler’s pool, a barbeque and a kiosk.
The Mount Barker Swimming Pool is open Monday-Friday 6:30am-6pm and Saturday-Sunday 12pm-6pm, perfect for an early morning swim to wake you up, a midday swim to cool off or an afternoon swim to end the day right. Entry is free for children 16 years and under, 17 years and over are just $5.50 and concession is $3.50. Make the most of this great community facility and take a dip at the Mount Barker Swimming Pool.
11. Have a Picnic at One of the Many Great Parks
Mount Barker, WA is a great destination to explore and enjoy the outdoors. And, one of the best ways to do this is to head to one of the many parks throughout the area to enjoy a picnic lunch. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax and take in the beautiful scenery or a fun area to have a BBQ and play some games, there are plenty of parks in Mount Barker to choose from.
Wilson Park, located right in the main town centre, is a great option for picnics. This park boasts wide open spaces, shade shelters, picnic tables, toilets, a skate park and lots of playground equipment for kids, including a tractor and boat to climb on.
Centenary Park, also located near the town centre, is another excellent spot for picnics. Here, you can find shaded picnic benches, plenty of open grass, the War Memorial and the We Remember Them Walk.
Both of these parks provide plenty of space for group activities and relaxing with family and friends. There are many other great parks in Mount Barker such as Apex Park and Viv Skinner Park. No matter which park you choose for your picnic, you’re sure to have a wonderful time in Mount Barker!
12. Get Advice from the Locals at the Mount Barker Visitor Centre
There’s no one who knows a town better than it’s locals. The staff at the Mount Barker Visitor Centre have in-depth knowledge on the area and the local attractions. So when visiting make sure to stop by the visitor centre for information on the trails, dining spots, history and more.
Besides providing great advice for your trip the Mount Barker Visitor Centre has a number of locally made items and locally grown produce for sale, allowing you to directly support the local artists, crafts people and farmers of Mount Barker.
Enjoy Your Trip to Mount Barker WA!
We hope that this list of the best things to do in Mount Barker has helped you plan your visit to Mount Barker. As such a beautiful town in such a perfect location, we’re sure you’ll have an amazing trip.
If you’re interested we’ve also put together some answers for frequently asked questions about Mount Barker, WA below.
What is Mount Barker WA Known For?
Mount Barker WA is known as mountain country due to it being nestled between two ancient mountain ranges, with the Stirling Range to the North and the Porongurup Range to the South. It’s close proximity to both has made it a popular spot for adventurers who want to be close to the mountains.
Is Mount Barker WA Worth Visiting?
Definitely, Mount Barker is a great destination for all types of travellers, from thrill-seekers and adventurers who want to be close to the mountains, to art-lovers who want to admire the local artwork, to families who want to relax with a picnic at the local park. No matter what you’re looking for and how long you’re staying, you’ll have a great time in Mount Barker WA.
How Far is Mount Barker WA from Perth?
Mount Barker WA is approximately 367km from Perth, which is about a 4-5 hour drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).
How Far is Mount Barker WA from Albany?
Mount Barker WA is approximately 50km from Albany, which is about a 30-45 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).
How Far is Mount Barker WA from Porongurup?
Mount Barker WA is approximately 22km from Porongurup, which is about a 15-20 minute drive away.
How Far is Mount Barker WA from the Stirling Range?
Mount Barker WA is approximately 51km from the Stirling Range, which is about a 30-40 minute drive away (depending on which route you take).
What Region is Mount Barker WA in?
Mount Barker WA is in the Great Southern region of Western Australia.
What Shire is Mount Barker WA in?
Mount Barker WA is in the Shire of Plantagenet.
What is the Population of Mount Barker WA?
Mount Barker has a population of 2,855 (according to the 2021 Census).
What is There to do in Mount Barker WA?
There are some great things to do in Mount Barker, including:
- Visiting the Mount Barker Rotary Lookout
- Taking on a mountain hike at the Stirling Range
- Visiting a local winery
- Viewing the Mount Barker Murals
- Taking on a hike in the Porongurup National Park
- Eating local food
- Visiting one of Mount Barker’s galleries or art centre
- Visiting the Old Police Station
- Going to a local market
- Swimming at the Mount Barker Memorial Swimming Pool
- Visiting one of Mount Barker’s parks
- Visiting the Mount Barker Visitor Centre
Hey! I’m Lydia and I have been travelling full time with Wehan since 2022. Alongside documenting our travels on YouTube, we put together comprehensive travel guides on the locations we visit here on our website. We also put together guides on other aspects of our travels, such as detailed information on the gear we use, specifics on our van build and tips for van life. Our goal with this website and the guides we write is to help others travel.
At the moment we are currently doing the big lap of Australia in our self converted Sprinter van. Our goal is to continue to push ourselves outside our comfort zone; seeking new adventures, learning about new cultures and seeing as much of the world as possible.
