Hamersley Range

The Hamersley Range is a mountain range in the Pilbara region of Western Australia noted for its high red escarpments, deep gorges and extensive banded iron formations. It is a major geological and mining province containing significant iron ore deposits.

Prominent landscape features include sharp escarpments, plateau country and deeply incised gorges; parts of the range are protected within Karijini National Park, which provides access to waterfalls, pools and walking tracks. Mining operations occupy other areas of the range and have shaped regional transport and infrastructure.

The range is underlain by ancient Proterozoic iron-rich rocks and is a key site for geological study as well as mineral extraction. Its landscapes reflect a long geological history and weathering in an arid tropical setting.

The Hamersley Range lies in inland northwestern Western Australia within the Pilbara; it forms part of the broader Pilbara uplands and is remote from major population centres, with access from regional towns and mining settlements.

• Iron ore deposits: The range contains extensive banded iron formations that are the basis for large-scale iron ore mining operations in the Pilbara region.
• Highest point: Mount Meharry is the state high point at 1,249 metres and marks part of the rugged escarpment terrain within the range.

What to See #

• Karijini National Park: Karijini National Park encompasses deep gorges and escarpments carved into the range and is a major area for visiting waterfalls, pools and walking routes.
• Mount Meharry: Mount Meharry, the highest point in Western Australia at 1,249 metres, forms part of the range's upland plateau and is a local highpoint for the region.