The Best Walks in Perth to Explore Nature’s Wonders
Perth is a walker’s paradise, blessed with an abundance of fantastic trails that lead you through its dazzling natural beauty. From the leafy pathways of the inner city to the rugged tracks of the hills and the stunning oceanfront promenades, walking in Perth is always an adventure. Whether you’re in the mood for an afternoon stroll with panoramic city views or a challenging hike through picturesque bushland, here’s your guide to some of the best walks around Perth.
Law Walk & Federation Walkway (Perth)
If you’re up for embracing stunning city vistas and a touch of nature, look no further than the Law Walk & Federation Walkway in Kings Park. This iconic loop weaves through classic bushland and over a treetop bridge, presenting beautiful views of the Swan River and the city’s skyline. Perfect for an afternoon wander, the track is accessible for everyone, including those with prams or wheelchairs. For added insight, join one of the free guided walks usually on offer.
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Lesmurdie Falls Valley Loop Trail (Forrestfield)
Want to marvel at one of Perth’s most spectacular waterfalls? Head to Lesmurdie Falls in Mundy Regional Park. This trail not only offers multiple lookouts to admire the cascading falls but also rewards with stunning city views from the escarpment. It’s busiest after winter rains when the falls are at their most impressive. Just keep in mind, it’s a popular weekend escape for dog walkers and picnickers too!
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Bells Rapids River and Goat Walk (Brigadoon)
Famed for its role in the Avon Descent, Bells Rapids is ideal for a lazy riverside stroll or a more intense hill climb. The scenic walk includes a crossing over the Swan River’s rapids – it’s particularly stunning and vibrant in winter and spring. Ideal for a picnic day, but plan your parking wisely on peak days.
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Zamia Trail, Bold Park (City Beach)
Combining bushwalking and coastal views, the Zamia Trail is just a stone’s throw from the CBD. Enjoy a vigorous 5km loop with captivating 360-degree views from Reabold Hill. Ideal for a weekend workout while basking in nature, this trail is open around the clock, offering flexibility for early-bird walkers or twilight strollers.
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Eagle View Walk Trail (Hovea)
This trail in John Forrest National Park presents a demanding yet rewarding 15km loop. Towering waterfalls, vibrant wildflowers, and sweeping views across the coastal plain await those prepared to tackle its challenges. A great choice for serious bushwalkers looking for a full-day adventure in WA’s oldest national park.
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Whistlepipe Gully Trail (Forrestfield)
For tranquillity and enchantment, Whistlepipe Gully offers a gentle 3.5km walk alongside a babbling brook. Small cascades and the ruins of an old home add a whimsical touch to the journey, especially after rain. It’s a favourite among families and dog walkers – just be mindful of parking, as it’s limited.
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Burns Beach to Mindarie Path (Burns Beach)
This coastal walkway delivers stunning views throughout its 7.3km stretch, perfect for walkers or cyclists. With bushland on one side and ocean vistas on the other, this path effortlessly connects the vibrant suburbs of Burns Beach and Mindarie. Cap off the walk with a visit to one of the many cafes at either end.
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Scarborough-Trigg Heritage Trail (Scarborough)
This unique trail juxtaposes beachside energy with bushland serenity, taking you from the bustling Scarborough front to a tranquil loop through Trigg Bushland Reserve. The interpretive signs scattered along the trail enrich your walk with fascinating natural and cultural history.
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Matilda Bay Reserve Walk (Crawley)
For a laidback riverside walk, Matilda Bay offers serene pathways and classic views of Perth’s iconic landmarks like the Crawley Edge Boatshed. A perfectly paved route for an afternoon meander, this walk invites escapades along the Swan River, connecting to trails leading towards Kings Park or Henley.
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South Perth Foreshore (South Perth)
The South Perth Foreshore boasts some of the best views of the Perth CBD, with its flat, wide paths ideal for walkers and cyclists alike. Take this stroll at sunset for breathtaking citylight reflections over the Swan River. It’s easily reached by ferry too, making it a seamless city escape.
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Herdsman Lake Loop (Wembley)
For those seeking an urban oasis, the Herdsman Lake Loop offers an 8km trek through Perth’s largest inner-city wetland. A favourite among birdwatchers with over 100 species to spot, this flat, paved trail is perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Don’t miss the Discovery Centre for added insights.
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Wadjemup Bidi (Rottnest Island)
Explore Rottnest Island’s scenic wonders via the Wadjemup Bidi trail network. Each section, from coastal bluffs to secluded beaches, invites adventure. Remember, planning ahead with ferry tickets and trail sections is key for the perfect island getaway.
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Kitty’s Gorge Walk Trail (Serpentine)
This trail in Serpentine National Park is renowned for its granite gorges and lush forest landscapes. A 14km return journey, this captivating hike enchants especially during winter and spring. Arrive early to nab a good parking spot in this popular national park.
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Sixty Foot Falls, Ellis Brook Valley (Martin)
If wildflowers and sweeping views are your thing, Sixty Foot Falls is your next destination. Located in a valley known for its stunning floral diversity, this walk rewards with calming panoramas over Perth. The falls depend on winter rains to flow, so time your visit accordingly.
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Rocky Pool Walk (Kalamunda)
For an exhilarating bushwalking challenge, the Rocky Pool Walk in Kalamunda National Park does not disappoint. Navigate steep terrains to reach a picturesque granite pool along Piesse Brook. Best suited for most passionate bushwalkers looking to tackle difficult paths.
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Bibbulmun Track Northern Terminus (Kalamunda)
Getting a taste of the famed Bibbulmun Track is an adventure like no other. Start at the northern terminus in Kalamunda and experience the jarrah forests through well-marked paths. It’s a flexible trail, perfect for day-walkers to explore as much as they desire before turning back.
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Ghost House Walk Trail (Yanchep)
Embrace the blend of nature and history on the Ghost House Walk Trail in Yanchep National Park. Meandering through wetlands and woodlands, the loop is dotted with intriguing historical remnants. Expect to encounter wildlife like kangaroos and koalas along the way.
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Point Peron Walk (Rockingham)
With coastal views and a slice of military history, Point Peron Walk promises an exploratory day for families. The Cape Peron area is known for its natural charms and WWII ruins, with sheltered coves perfect for a pause. Take to the paths and enjoy a sunny day out.
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Railway Reserves Heritage Trail (Mundaring)
Step back in time along the 41km Railway Reserves Heritage Trail. Tracing the path of the old Eastern Railway, it passes through quaint towns and into John Forrest National Park. Walk, cycle, or even ride sections of this historic route – the choice is yours.
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Echidna Trail, Walyunga NP (Bullsbrook)
Walyunga National Park’s Echidna Trail is not for the faint-hearted. This challenging 11km circle offers rewarding vistas over the Avon Valley. With steep climbs, it’s best experienced in cooler months when nature’s beauty is at its peak.
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Marrinup Falls Walk Trail (Dwellingup)
Dive into the peacefulness of Marrinup Falls with a gentle forest walk. Just outside of old Marrinup townsite, this trek guides you past serene jarrah forests to a seasonal waterfall, best experienced following winter rains.
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Canning River Regional Park (Wilson)
Mix up your nature exploration with easy, family-friendly paths in Canning River Regional Park. Offering a blend of wetlands and woodlands, it thrives as a peaceful escape. Around Kent Street Weir, cafes and playgrounds make it a hit with parents and kids alike.
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Woodman Point Regional Park (Coogee)
Simultaneously steeped in history and natural beauty, Woodman Point is a diverse coastal playground. With tracks leading past historic quarantine station ruins and beaches along Cockburn Sound, it’s perfect for short or long strolls, while the Ammo Jetty attracts divers and fishers.
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Trigg to Hillarys Coastal Walk (Trigg)
The Trigg to Hillarys walk promises a classic Perth coastal experience, complete with stunning ocean views and lively beaches. This popular path is bustling with walkers, cyclists, and runners. Take a break at Mettams Pool for a snorkel when conditions are calm.
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Lake Monger Loop (West Leederville)
Offering a 3.5km flat loop, Lake Monger is famous for its black swans and city vistas. It’s a favourite among locals, prams, and wheelchairs, although popularity peaks on weekends. This quintessential inner-city escape offers an easy venture into inner-city tranquillity.
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With these trails in your pocket, you’re set for a series of rewarding discoveries. So lace up those walking shoes and let Perth’s landscapes capture your spirit!