Location: Peak Range National Park
Article: Written by Michael Pugh; Imagery by Michael Pugh
Directions: Access is via private property
Eastern Peak is the prominent feature in a secluded section of the Peak Range National Park between Clermont and Dysart. Although this peak is in the national park, it is surrounded by private property and access is strictly with permission of the landowner only.
The summit of Eastern Peak reaches 610 metres above sea level and is swarming with meat ants (Iridomyrmex purpureus), also known as ‘Gravel Ants”. Stand still for a few seconds and you are sure to have your boots and pants filled with these ants that inflict a nasty bite!
From the summit of Eastern Peak, the most prominent feature is the ginormous Browns Peak (807m) to the north west, and it’s neighboring Charleys Peak (610m). Gilberts Dome (742m) is partially visible further to the north west, however unfortunately the Hodgson Range impedes a view of Lords Table Mountain and it’s southern extension, Anvil Peak (737m)
The most impressive and unique views one experiences from the summit of Eastern Peak are that of the volcanic formations further to the south west, including Calvert Peak (634m), Mount Macarthur (746m), Scotts Peak (854m), Ropers Peak (804m) and Malvern Hill (679m).
Another notable feature of Eastern Peak is the Prickly Pear (Opuntia). Native to the Americas, Prickly Pear is a spiny, drought-resistant succulent that rapidly invades pastures and natural areas and overwhelms other vegetation.
Close to the summit of Eastern Peak, there are numerous viewpoints and rock formations of all shapes and sizes to visit, each offering it’s own unique view of the surrounding farmland and national park.
