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One Tree Bridge

We recognise and acknowledge Bibbulman people as the Traditional Owners of One Tree Bridge Area.

Historic old bridge constructed from one single log.

Dogs allowed

No park entry fee

One Tree Bridge
Bronwyn Wells

About this place

Until 1904, the only way across the Donnelly River in this area was a hazardous natural rocky ford about 500 metres upstream of the present bridge. The opening of the nearby graphite mining venture demanded a safer crossing.

Local settlers, Herbert and Walter Giblett, located an enormous karri tree and, using their skill as axe-men, felled it so it dropped across the 25m wide river to form the basis of a bridge.

The superstructure was hewn from nearby jarrah trees – crosspieces were cut and set into the karri log, then slabs of jarrah were laid across each end of the bolsters. Finally, hand hewn jarrah decking was laid, naturally resting on the slabs to provide a non-slip surface for horses and bullocks.

Eventually, this bridge disintegrated and fell into the river. Part of it was salvaged and is now on display at this shady recreation site.

Back to One Tree Bridge Area

Safety information

Plan when to visit. Consider travelling with a personal location beacon (PLB). In the event you need to be rescued it could save your life!

Gallery

Image
Picnic table next to One tree Bridge
One Tree Bridge
Bronwyn Wells
Image
The historic remains of the old One Tree Bridge
One Tree Bridge
Bronwyn Wells
Image
Suspension bridge over the Donnelly River at One Tree Bridge
One Tree Bridge
Bronwyn Wells
Image
a bridge constructed on the trunk of a tree
One Tree Bridge
Bron Anderson
Picnic table next to One tree Bridge
The historic remains of the old One Tree Bridge
Suspension bridge over the Donnelly River at One Tree Bridge

Facilities

Toilet

Picnic table

Activities

Bushwalking

Mountain biking

Overnight hiking

Picnicking

Plants, wildlife and fungi

Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded within a 5km radius of One Tree Bridge.

Traditional Owners

We recognise and acknowledge Pibulmun Aboriginal people as the traditional owners of One Tree Bridge Area.

Need to know

Dogs allowed

Dogs must be kept on a leash

No park entry fee

Entry to One Tree Bridge Area is free.

Toilets

Toilets are available.

Park office / Contact

Pemberton Parks and Wildlife Office

Phone: (08) 9776 1207

Contact this office by email

Location

Australia's South West
Pemberton

Getting there

One Tree Bridge is located along Graphite Road, a sealed road which runs between Manjimup and Nannup. It is on the North side of the road and the West side of the new bridge over the Donnelly River.

Park boundaries are approximations only and should not be used for navigation or orientation purposes.

Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional owners throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.

Connect with us

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Parks and Wildlife Service logo
Explore Parks logo

Main navigation

  • Home
  • Explore WA's parks

    All parks

    Park Finder Map

    Attractions and places to visit

    Trails

    Regions of WA

    • Australia's South West
    • Australia's Coral Coast
    • Australia's North West
    • Australia's Golden Outback
    • Destination Perth
  • Experiences
  • Activities
  • Know before you go

    Know before you go

    Get the practical ‘know how’ to adventure into Western Australia’s national parks confidently, responsibly and safely.

  • Get inspired
  • Where to stay
  • Park alerts

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