What is Wave Rock?
Wave Rock is a granite cliff shaped like a giant breaking ocean wave, near the town of Hyden in Western Australia. It is about 15 metres high and 110 metres long.
The rock is part of the north side of Hyden Rock, a large granite dome. Its curved shape formed over millions of years as water and weathering wore away the base below the soil surface, then the soil eroded away.
Dark and light vertical stripes on the rock are caused by rainwater carrying minerals and algae down the face. The granite itself is around 2.7 billion years old, among the oldest rocks in Australia.
Visiting Wave Rock
Wave Rock is about 340 kilometres east of Perth, a four to five hour drive through farmland. Walking trails lead to the top for views of the surrounding wheatbelt.
Nearby attractions include Hippos Yawn, a rock formation shaped like an open mouth, and Mulka's Cave, which holds hundreds of Aboriginal hand stencils.
Wave Rock attracts more than 100,000 visitors a year. A wildflower reserve and a lace collection museum are also found in the area.
Did You Know?
A low wall along the top of Wave Rock catches rainwater, which once supplied the Hyden town water supply.