What Are The Most Famous Hiking Trails In Perth?

Hiking is great exercise and nature appreciation. Hiking releases endorphins, which boost happiness and health. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or you've always wanted to give it a shot, you won't be short of fantastic hiking opportunities in and around Perth.  Have plenty of water and snacks, and wear a hat and sunscreen before heading out. And remember to vanish without a trace! Here are the top walks in and around Perth, ranked by everything from waterfalls and wildflowers to difficulty and suitability for first-timers, explorers, and enthusiasts.

Perth's Finest Hikes

Park of Yanchep

Have you always stayed on the well-trodden path? Don't let that stop you from trying bush trails; Yanchep National Park has some of Perth's most beautiful and user-friendly trails. One path, to be more specific. The Dwerta-Mia trail is a short and delightful route, including a cave exploration of the collapsed Boomerang Gorge.

Cooke Peak 

So, you've tried hiking before and are seeking a greater challenge? The Bibbulmun Track is the best intermediate hiking track in the Perth area. Therefore, it's worth spending a day exploring it.

An hour's journey from Perth will get you to Mount Cooke, where you may hike the 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) from Sullivan to Mount Cuthbert. As you travel 'two peaks' to reach the vast granite outcrop of Mount Cuthbert, you will be treated to some stunning vistas and a succession of "Are we nearly at the top" thinking bubbles. 

Once you've got the hiking bug, you'll likely meet an "end-to-ender" during your route who will encourage you to take on greater challenges. 

Gorge of Kitty

The Kitty's Gorge trail is unrivalled if you're looking for a daylong hike. This advanced hike offers everything you might want: gorges, running streams, Serpentine, and even a cemetery, all within a 15-kilometre return distance. We advise beginning at the Jarrahdale end of the walk so that you can take a break for lunch at the falls roughly halfway through the hike. This hike is more challenging and requires prior trail experience. 

Echidna Pathway

This 10-kilometre trek in Walyunga National Park is perfect if you're looking for a challenge. There are some challenging inclines, but the breathtaking panoramas of the Swan Valley and the Avon River from the river's edge are well worth the effort. The National Park charges $13 per vehicle to enter daily from 8 am to 5 pm.

Wildlife Refuge in Paruna

If you exert yourself by trudging up an incline, you should be rewarded with spectacular scenery. The winner in this category is Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary, which offers a spectacular and rarely visited vantage point from its many hiking trails. Hikers can take their time on three pathways from 2 to 15 miles.

Located in Gidgegannup between Walyunga and Avon Valley national parks, Paruna is a private refuge that welcomes visitors only during certain times of the year. From May to October, hikers can reap the benefits of these paths, but entry requires a reservation, so plan.

Pathway Around Victoria's Reservoir

The Bickley Valley is home to three historically listed sites within a beginner-friendly 7km Trail, including Western Australia's oldest permanent water supply, the first dam in WA, and the first wooden bridge in Australia.

Trail markers and historical information are few, so you should prepare beforehand. We recommend the Victoria Reservoir Walk Trail, which combines parts of the Bird & Mason and Kattamorda routes, but there are options for hikes of all lengths. 

The Historic Trail of Scarborough and Trigg

Thanks to Mother Nature, you may have a fantastic trek along the coast of Scarborough and Trigg beaches, popular with surfers and fishermen, and through the tranquil woodland trails of the Trigg Bushland Reserve. The 7.3-kilometre Scarborough—Trigg Heritage Trail is one of the best seaside walks in Perth. It consists of three loops and is well-marked.

Sound the Whistlepipe!

This well-known jewel begins at the base of Lesmurdie and provides visitors with stunning vistas over the city, a magical forest setting, and rushing streams (during the appropriate seasons). There are interesting remnants of historic homes scattered along the path. If you're looking for a short, easy stroll with your dog, Whistlepipe is a fantastic choice at only 3.5 kilometres in length.

In the Bush in Allen Park

This small section of Allen Park wilderness connected by paths is a welcome sight. Climb Melon Hill, and you'll be rewarded with incredible vistas of the Indian Ocean that reach Rottnest Island. Take note of the adorable structures that house the Fellowship of Australian WA and the beautifully restored wilderness and entry statement tiles made possible by dedicated residents. Start and end your hike at Swanbourne Beach, where the sand is soft and powdery.

Moderate to Difficult Paths

Paths in King's Park

With its 400 ha of parkland, botanical gardens, and natural and native bushland, Kings Park is a walker's dream. There's a lot to see, from the beautiful Swan River skyline to the more than 3,000 plants only found in Western Australia.

Numerous hiking paths of various lengths and difficulties may be found throughout the park. 

Kokoda Trail Hike in Remembrance

Australia's bravery in the Papua New Guinea campaign, which lasted from July 1942 to January 1943, is commemorated at the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk. 

Starting at Fountain on Bay Road, the brisk 153-meter walk involves a 62-meter ascent up 150 steps. The trail terminates north of the Cenotaph at the State War Memorial, where plaques mark the steps. There is no room for wheelchairs or strollers.

Path of the Boodja Gnarning

Experience the rich cultural history of Kings Park on the Boodja Gnarning Walk. The trail focuses on the Nyoongar, an Aboriginal indigenous to the southwest of Australia, and their relationship with the earth. 

Interpretive signpost panels throughout the path provide background on the Noongar people and showcase their artistic talents. In addition to the Gija Jumulu, the Beedawong Meeting site, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander War Memorial, visitors to Kings Park can follow these.

After the first kilometre, the walk splits into the Yorga (female) Track and Maarm (male) Track, accessible to people of both sexes.

The Noongar people's utilisation of the land and trees along the 2.4-kilometre-long Maarm Track can be seen in the exhibits showcasing these uses. The 90-minute trek has a moderate slope and some flat spots.

The Yorga Track is a short walk of only 1.8 miles that showcases women's traditional activities, such as food and medication gathering. The track's gentle grade and smooth surface make it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

The Boodja Gnarning Walk brochure, complete with a thorough map, language samples, and other information, can be picked up at the Visitor Centre on Fraser Avenue.

The Bibbulmun Path

More than 80,000 hikers annually journey along the Bibbulmun Track, stretching over a thousand kilometres from Albany to the Perth Hills. It takes dedicated bushwalkers six to eight weeks to complete the journey, but most people choose to cover a shorter distance.

But you don't have to travel long to have fun; several short (relatively speaking) day hikes exist. The area between Camel Farm to Hewett's Hill in the Perth Hills is an excellent starting point. The trail winds through the Beelu National Park, home to Stuart, jarrah, balsa, and zamia trees. Birdwatchers will enjoy this walk because of the abundance of birds and other wildlife.

The trailhead is located at the Camel Farm car park on Paull's Valley Road in Hackett's Gully, about 15 minutes from Kalamunda. When you reach the fence's end, turn left and look for the Bibbulmun Track signs and trail markers.

Visit between August and November, which is peak wildflower season. The Shire of Kalamunda website also provides downloadable trail maps.

It is highly recommended that you buy a map or guidebook of the Bibbulmun Track from the official website. Depending on the weather, the number of people in your walking party, and where you can legally go, you can select how far you want to go. A watch is a reliable way to keep track of the time and avoid getting behind schedule.

Trail Along the Bells Rapids River

Bells Rapids is well-known as a prime viewing location for the Avon Descent. This 2.75-kilometre circuit combines the moderately demanding Goat Walk with the relatively easy Bells Rapids Walk. The path follows the river before ascending the hill via challenging, rocky terrain. The Buttocks Boulder is another landmark to watch out for.

To the left is the easy 2.5-kilometre Bells Rapids Walk that loops back to the picnic area, while to the right is the Goat Walk that climbs the hill and eventually rejoins the River Walk.

A dog-friendly picnic area with public restrooms. The greatest time to visit is between July and November when the water flow is at its peak and the wildflowers are at their most colourful. Get the kids outside and enjoy the fresh air by taking them on a picnic. A kangaroo could even hop into view.

Hiking the Noble Falls Trail

Put on some sneakers made for walking and be ready to be delighted. The Wooroloo Brook provides a beautiful backdrop for a stroll at any time of year, from springtime wildflowers to a rushing waterfall in the winter. 

Those with no prior bushwalking expertise or younger children will like this trek. The track's surface has been toughened, with a few little inclines and declines. Your four-legged pal is welcome and can run free without a leash as long as they don't cause any trouble.

The trailhead for the bush begins at the parking and picnic area at Noble Falls on Toodyay Road. Below passing Noble Falls, continue along the Woorloo Brook by turning left just below the footbridge. 

Trail of Park Zamia's Courage

The Zamia Trail in Bold Park is a terrific choice if you'd rather stay closer to home. The route is a manageable 5.1 kilometres loop that features a variety of in-native plant and animal life.  

Please bring your pet, but remember to pick up after them and keep them on a leash so that everyone may enjoy the beautiful contrast between the city and the beach. Park benches may be found all along the Zamia Trail, providing the perfect spot to rest and enjoy some refreshments during the day.

Please keep your eyes peeled for the many different kinds of birds, animals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates that call Bold Park their home.

A parking lot is just next to the trailhead on Perry Lakes Drive in City Beach.

The Paths Near Lesmurdie Falls

The Mundy Regional Park is home to the beautiful Lesmurdie Falls Trails. The winter and spring months are ideal because of the abundance of water that fills Lesmurdie Brook and cascades over the Range Escarpment.

At 640 metres one way, the Falls Trail is the easiest of the walking paths here; other options include the 1.5-kilometre Lesmurdie Brooke Loop and the 3-kilometre Valley Loop Trail. The trails are accessible to people of many ages and fitness levels, and leashed pets are welcome.

To get to the bridge at the top of the falls, the Lesmurdie Falls follows the brook. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the vantage point. The city of Perth and Rottnest Island are visible on a clear day. 

A short walk will take you to the bottom of the falls, and if you're feeling very daring, you may hike down to a picnic area at the foot of the hills. The dense flora that develops at the waterfall's base gives it a wonderful, almost New Zealand-like appearance. 

There is a short but steep ascent back to the parking lot; if you've made it, reward yourself with a picnic or something sweet from Kalamunda Village.

Suggested for seasoned hikers only.

Trail of the Wadjemups

Wadjemup, the Noongar name for Rottnest Island, translates to "place across the water where the spirits are." The island's natural splendour is unending, from its glistening azure bays to its tranquil inland lakes and picture-perfect rugged terrain.

The ferry will get you across the 18 km ocean to walk heaven. Visitors to Rottnest Island now have a fresh option for taking in the island's enchantment thanks to the Wadjemup Walk Trail.

You can choose between two official paths:

Bickley Bay Trail

This segment takes you from Thomson to Oliver Hill in the island's southeastern portion. As you head along the coastline towards Kingstown Precinct, you'll leave the town's rush and bustle behind you. Discover the tunnel systems at Oliver Hill Battery and Henrietta Rocks, and take in breathtaking Jubilee Observation Post vistas while walking in the footsteps of World War II heroes. 

The Path of the Lakes

This path leads through the salt lake environment on Rottnest Island. There are many species of birds, and the quokka is the most well-known native of the island. Starting from Vlamingh Lookout, which offers some of the island's best vistas, you'll make your way to Thomsons Farm by following the shores of Herschel Lake and Lake Baghdad. After cooling off in the calm waters of Little Parakeet Bay, continue to Geordie Bay, where a free shuttle will take you back to town if you'd rather not walk the 8 kilometres back to Vlamingh Lookout and then to the town. 

Bluff Knoll

The most used path in Stirling Range National Park, Bluff Knoll, can be found in the park's southwestern area. The trail is marked, leading to breathtaking vistas at 1,098 metres (3.3 miles) on Bluff Knoll.

The walk begins at the southern end of the Bluff Knoll parking lot and descends to a creek before crossing a mountain to get spectacular vistas of the southern coast. From the peak, where the trail bears left to follow the ridge, you can take a sweeping panorama of the surrounding landscape.

Eucalypts, banksia, grass trees, and more than 1,000 floral plants dominate the lower slopes, such Queen of Sheba Orchid and mountain bells.

The weather and other conditions might change quickly, so be ready for anything. Bring a heavy jacket and hat, as conditions are much more chilly and windy. Always pack a first aid kit, plenty of drink and food, and sturdy shoes for the journey.

Since the local Nyoongar people think the rocks on the bluff resemble the eyes of an ancient master spirit, they have given the mountain two names: Bular Mial and Bala Mial.

To enter Stirling Range National Park, visitors must pay a charge of $15. You'll see the toll booth on the right as you enter Bluff Knoll Road.  

The Path of King Jarrah

The woodlands near Dwellingup are home to some magnificent examples of Jarrah and Marri. Find the Jarrah tree that gave the hike its name.

Near the Nanga Mill Campground, at the forest's border, you'll find the start of the King Jarrah Walk Trail. The trail ascends into the hills and passes through some spectacular jarrah woodlands before falling to follow the Murray River's banks. On the western side of the trail, you can anticipate some challenging inclines.

The old reference trees in the forest have numbers to help foresters find their way around. The remnants of the logging railway, including cuttings and demolished bridges, can also be found here.

Summers are too hot for the strenuous hike, so the optimum time to go is between fall and late spring. Always take precautions against the elements and pack more supplies than you need.

Conclusion

Hiking in Perth is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy nature, and release endorphins. The best walks in and around Perth are the Park of Yanchep, Cooke Peak, Echidna Pathway, Paruna Wildlife Refuge, Victoria's Reservoir Walk Trail, Historic Trail of Scarborough and Trigg, Sound the Whistlepipe, In the Bush in Allen Park, King's Park, Kokoda Trail Hike in Remembrance, Boodja Gnarning Walk, and Bibbulmun Path.

Yanchep National Park has some of the most beautiful and easy-to-use tracks in Perth. For example, the Dwerta-Mia trail lets you explore the caves of the collapsed Boomerang Gorge. From Sullivan to Mount Cuthbert, Cooke Peak is a tough 10-kilometre hike, and the Bibbulmun Track is the best intermediate hike in the area.

The Gorge of Kitty is a difficult walk with beautiful views and lots of "Are we almost at the top?" thought bubbles. The Echidna Pathway in Walyunga National Park is a 10-kilometre hike with steep hills, but the views of the Swan Valley and the Avon River are well worth the effort.

The Paruna Wildlife Refuge in Paruna is a beautiful place to hike, but you need to make a ticket to get in. The Victoria Reservoir Walk Trail combines parts of the Bird & Mason and Kattamorda routes, and there are choices for hikes of all lengths.

The Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, the Boodja Gnarning Walk, and the Bibbulmun Path are all walks in King's Park that range from easy to hard. Hikers can do a lot of different things on these trails, like look at the beautiful Swan River skyline or check out the different kinds of wildlife in the area. The starting point of the Bibbulmun Track is at the Camel Farm car park in Hackett's Gully, which is about 15 minutes from Kalamunda. Between August and November, when the blooming season is at its peak, is the best time to go. You can get trail plans from the Shire of Kalamunda website, and a watch is a good way to keep track of time.

People like to watch the Avon Descent from the Bells Rapids River, which has a 2.75-kilometre loop that includes the Goat Walk and the Bells Rapids Walk. The Bells Rapids Walk is easy and rocky, while the Goat Walk goes up the hill and meets up with the River Walk. The Bells Rapids Trail is dog-friendly and has a place to eat and use the bathroom as well as a picnic spot. The Noble Falls Trail is a great place to take a walk because it has a hardened floor that is good for people of all ages and fitness levels. The Zamia Trail in Bold Park is a 5.1-kilometre loop that is easy to walk and has many different kinds of plants and animals.

Along the path, there are park benches, and the Mundy Regional Park has the lovely Lesmurdie Falls Trails. The Wadjemup Falls are a famous place for hikers to go because they have beautiful scenery and great views. Visitors can choose between the Billy Bay Trail, which goes from Thomson to Oliver Hill, and the Path of the Lakes, which goes through the salt lake environment. At 1,098 metres (3.3 miles), the Path of the Lakes is a famous path in Stirling Range National Park. It has stunning views. The trail is signed and has eucalypts, grass trees, banksia, and more than 1,000 flowering plants.

The people who live near the mountain, the Nyoongar, have given it two names: Bular Mial and Bala Mial. People must pay $15 and enter the park on Bluff Knoll Road to get into Stirling Range National Park. The King Jarrah Walk Trail is a famous hike in the woods near Dwellingup. It starts near the Nanga Mill Campground and goes through Jarrah woodlands and parts of the old logging railway. Between fall and late spring is the best time to go, and you should take precautions against the weather and bring more goods than you think you'll need.

Content Summary

• Perth offers fantastic hiking opportunities for both seasoned hikers and newcomers.
• Hiking releases endorphins, boosting happiness and health.
• Yanchep National Park boasts beautiful and user-friendly trails.
• The Dwerta-Mia trail in Yanchep features a delightful cave exploration of Boomerang Gorge.
• The Bibbulmun Track provides a greater challenge for intermediate hikers.
• Mount Cooke offers stunning vistas and a rewarding hike.
• Kitty's Gorge trail is a challenging day-long hike with gorges and waterfalls.
• Echidna Pathway in Walyunga National Park provides breathtaking panoramas.
• Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary offers rarely visited vantage points and diverse hiking trails.
• Bickley Valley has beginner-friendly trails with historical sites and Western Australia's oldest permanent water supply.
• Scarborough—Trigg Heritage Trail offers a fantastic trek along the coast and tranquil woodland trails.
• Whistlepipe provides stunning city views, a magical forest setting, and historic remnants.
• Allen Park offers incredible vistas of the Indian Ocean and Rottnest Island from Melon Hill.
• King's Park boasts 400 ha of parkland, botanical gardens, and native bushland with various hiking paths.
• Kokoda Track Memorial Walk commemorates Australia's bravery in the Papua New Guinea campaign.
• Boodja Gnarning Walk in Kings Park showcases Nyoongar culture and history.
• The Bibbulmun Track stretches over a thousand kilometres from Albany to Perth Hills.
• Bells Rapids offers prime viewing for the Avon Descent and combines moderate and challenging hikes.
• Noble Falls Trail provides a beautiful backdrop with wildflowers and a rushing waterfall.
• Zamia Trail in Bold Park offers a manageable loop with native plant and animal life.
• Lesmurdie Falls Trails in Mundy Regional Park provide a variety of paths for different fitness levels.
• Wadjemup Walk Trail on Rottnest Island allows visitors to take in the island's enchanting beauty.
• Bickley Bay Trail leads to Oliver Hill Battery and offers breathtaking views on Rottnest Island.
• Path of the Lakes showcases salt lake environments and diverse wildlife on Rottnest Island.
• Bluff Knoll in Stirling Range National Park offers marked trails and stunning vistas at 1,098 meters.
• The Path of King Jarrah near Dwellingup features magnificent examples of Jarrah and Marri woodlands.
• Bular Mial and Bala Mial are the two names given by the Nyoongar people to Bluff Knoll for their unique rock formations.
• The King Jarrah Walk Trail in Dwellingup passes through challenging inclines and beautiful Jarrah woodlands.
• The best time to hike in Stirling Range National Park is between fall and late spring.
• Perth's hiking trails cater to a wide range of fitness levels and interests.
• Prepare for hikes with plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Respect the environment and "vanish without a trace" to protect nature.
• Yanchep National Park stands out for its beautiful and accessible trails.
• The Bibbulmun Track offers a popular and rewarding hiking experience.
• Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary provides secluded and picturesque vantage points.
• Bickley Valley's historic sites and natural beauty make it an excellent choice for hikers.
• Scarborough—Trigg Heritage Trail offers a coastal hike with loops and clear markers.
• Whistlepipe provides a short and dog-friendly hike with stunning city views.
• Allen Park rewards hikers with breathtaking Indian Ocean views from Melon Hill.
• King's Park offers a walker's dream with its botanical gardens and diverse landscapes.
• Kokoda Track Memorial Walk honours Australia's bravery during World War II.
• Boodja Gnarning Walk showcases the rich cultural history of Kings Park and the Nyoongar people.
• The Bibbulmun Track offers a wide range of options for hikers of all abilities.
• Bells Rapids allows hikers to experience the Avon Descent and diverse terrain.
• Noble Falls Trail offers a picturesque backdrop with a waterfall and wildflowers.
• Bold Park's Zamia Trail is a manageable hike with a variety of plant and animal life.
• Lesmurdie Falls Trails provide a range of paths suitable for different fitness levels.
• Wadjemup Walk Trail on Rottnest Island offers diverse options for enjoying the island's beauty.
• Bluff Knoll in Stirling Range National Park provides sweeping panoramas from the summit.
• The King Jarrah Walk Trail in Dwellingup offers a hike through spectacular Jarrah woodlands and challenging inclines.