This is a very popular walk that attracts many thousands of visitors annually. The summit bid is demanding and requires a head for heights on the ladders. The views are spectacular and this walk is only recommended in fine weather.

After following the driving directions you will eventually arrive at a small car park with a few picnic tables. This marks the start of the walk. There is an information board offering advice and information pertaining to this walk.

The first part of the track is quite steep from the outset ascending to the north-east for about half a kilometre. You will then follow a ridge that trends north towards the mountain. This first half a kilometre can be quite demanding particularly for the uninitiated. Take your time here and try to get into a rhythm with your walking.

Once you are on top of the ridge you will see a sign announcing that you are now in NPWS territory. From here the track makes it's way north over flat open heath country. The wildflowers here in spring are spectacular so remember to take your camera. Soon Pigeon House Mountain comes into view as we begin to ascend towards the lower flanks.

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Wattles, banksias and epacrids dominate the surrounding vegetation on the approach but as you near the mountain Woollybutts and Yellow Stringybarks overshadow the swamp sedges near the track.

As the mountain is approached the terrain becomes progressively steeper and timber steps are in place to help control erosion. A set of steel steps is reached before the track turns towards the left on approach to the steel ladders which are bolted to the cliff face. Care should be taken while climbing the ladders as a fall could leave you seriously injured in a remote location a long way from help. In winter, gloves are often required on these ladders as their temperature regularly drops to below zero. Apparently, people have been known to have their hands stuck to the steel!

Prior to heading left at the first steel steps you could if you wish, take a detour to the right. This will bring you to an old track which leads around the base of the summit cliffs to a massive cave known locally as "The Balcony".

Once on the summit you will be rewarded with outstanding views of the Budawang Ranges and surrounds. For many trekkers in the local area pigeon house marks their first "mountain climb". It is not unheard of for trekkers to go on to climb the Himalayas after being inspired by Pigeon House Mountain.

Pigeon House Mountain was named by Captain James Cook in 1770 because it reminded him of pigeon lofts in his native country, England.

Apparently there are no records of any European first ascent of this mountain, however given that aborigines have occupied the area for over 60,000 years one can reasonably assume that they would have won this summit long before the arrival of white man.

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The Budawang Ranges has a fascinating natural history. For those wanting a deeper insight into this remarkable wilderness area, Pigeon House and Beyond is a wealth of information, if you can still find a copy. Try searching our book store as a second hand copy may appear from time to time.

After appreciating the spectacular views from the summit return via your ascent route and take particular care when descending the ladders.

For the full comprehensive track notes for this and 42 other walks in the Budawangs we highly recommend the guide book, Bushwalking in the Budawangs by Ron Doughton.