Where to Hike in Perth: 10 of the Best Bush Trails to Explore

Love getting outdoors? Perth is full of adventure, with an incredible network of trails winding through bushland, forests, waterfalls, and rivers. Whether you’re after a challenging hike with epic views, a family-friendly stroll or a peaceful day out in nature, there’s a bush trail for every kind of walker. The best part? Most of these trails are less than an hour’s drive from the CBD, making them the perfect way to escape the city without going too far.

Tips for Hiking Perth’s Bush Trails

Bushwalking around Perth is a fantastic way to experience WA’s unique landscapes, but a little preparation will make your hike more enjoyable. Here are some handy tips:

• Pack water and snacks – Many trails don’t have drinking water available, so bring a reusable bottle and light snacks to keep your energy up.
• Wear sturdy shoes – Perth trails often include gravel, steps, and granite outcrops, so good footwear is essential.
• Start early – Especially in summer, mornings are cooler and less crowded.
• Check trail conditions – Waterfalls, brooks, and streams are often seasonal, and some trails can be muddy or slippery after heavy rain.
• Respect wildlife and flora – You’ll likely encounter kangaroos, birds, and even echidnas. Enjoy them at a distance and never feed wild animals.
• Leave no trace – Carry out any rubbish, stick to marked trails, and help protect these fragile environments for future visitors.
• Check park hours and fees – Some reserves and national parks have gate times and entry fees, so plan accordingly.

From waterfalls in the Perth Hills to hidden suburban reserves and national park adventures, here are 10 of the best bush trails around Perth to explore on your next hike.

Sixty Foot Falls Trail – Ellis Brook Valley Reserve

The Sixty Foot Falls Trail is one of Perth’s most rewarding short hikes. Located in Ellis Brook Valley Reserve 10 minutes from Gosnells, this 2.1km loop takes about an hour but packs in plenty of highlights. Expect steep sections, rocky paths, and steps, but the payoff is a stunning city and valley view from the top of a seasonal waterfall – the perfect picnic spot. Along the way, you’ll pass through jarrah and marri forest, across granite outcrops, and down via the old Barrington Quarry.

If you visit in winter or after heavy rain, the falls flow dramatically, while in summer you can enjoy the rugged cliffs and birdlife. For an easier climb, take the trail clockwise, following the red lizard markers. Facilities include picnic shelters and BBQs at Honeyeater Hollow, though toilets are only located there (not at the trailhead). Dogs are welcome on lead.

Other easier options in the reserve include the Blue Wren Ramble or Eagle View Trails, making this a fantastic day out for all fitness levels.

Yellagonga Regional Park – Joondalup

Just 25 minutes north of the city, Yellagonga Regional Park is a tranquil greenbelt stretching 16km from Joondalup to Kingsley. With 1,400 hectares of wetlands, lakes, and bushland, it’s a surprising suburban oasis perfect for walking, cycling, and picnicking.

The two most popular trails are the Lake Joondalup Circuit (16km) and the Lake Goollelal Circuit (4.8km). Both are flat, family-friendly routes with plenty of birdlife and native bush. The Joondalup loop can be tackled on foot or bike, with Neil Hawkins Park as a popular start point. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, turtles, and long-necked birds. The shorter Goollelal walk is especially beautiful in spring, with wildflowers and views from the lakeside platform.

There are several picnic areas, and dogs are welcome on a leash. With its blend of cultural heritage sites, wildlife, and shady tracks, Yellagonga is a great year-round option for a day out in nature without leaving suburbia.

Kitty’s Gorge Walk Trail – Serpentine National Park

For one of Perth’s best long hikes, head to Kitty’s Gorge in Serpentine National Park. This 14km return trail winds through lush forest, granite outcrops, gorges, and waterfalls, following two brooks as they cascade through the valley.

You can begin at either Jarrahdale Cemetery or Serpentine Falls, though starting from Jarrahdale offers a gentler uphill. The highlight is the main waterfall halfway along, reached after about 3.5km. Spring is the best time to visit, with wildflowers in bloom and the falls flowing at their strongest.

Expect a class 4 trail with uneven ground, steps, and steep sections – it takes 4–5 hours to complete, so pack water, snacks, and sturdy shoes. Toilets are only at the Serpentine Falls car park, and national park fees apply if you start there.

For a shorter option, turn back at the falls or arrange a car shuffle with friends. Either way, Kitty’s Gorge is a magical immersion into WA bushland and one of Perth’s must-do waterfall hikes.

Whistlepipe Gully – Mundy Regional Park

Whistlepipe Gully in Forrestfield is a favourite among locals, and it’s easy to see why. This 3.5km loop trail follows a bubbling brook through the Perth Hills, with cascades, granite boulders, and even city views from the top.

The path loops up one side of the gully and down the other, with a steady but manageable climb to start. One of the most interesting features along the trail is the stone foundation of a 1960s Japanese-style house that once straddled the stream – a quirky slice of history among the bush.

The trail is dog-friendly (on lead) and takes around 1–1.5 hours. Pink markers guide the way, though the rocky terrain means it’s not pram-friendly. Parking is limited at Lewis Road, so arrive early on weekends.

Best enjoyed in winter or spring when the creek is flowing, Whistlepipe Gully is a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and accessibility – only 30 minutes from the CBD.

Roley Pools Walk Trail – Roleystone

For an easy Perth Hills walk with plenty of charm, Roley Pools Reserve is a great choice. Following the Djarlgarro (Canning River), the main 1km trail meanders between Collins Road and Soldiers Road Bridge, weaving through shady trees, granite rocks, and peaceful river pools.

The reserve has four trails in total, including the Nature’s Spa and Heritage trails, which can be linked for a longer walk. Interpretive signage along the way shares local Noongar culture and history – scan the QR codes for extra stories. Picnic tables are scattered throughout, making it ideal for a relaxed day out.

There are no toilets on site, so plan ahead. Dogs are welcome on lead, and parking is available at Collins Road or Soldiers Road. In autumn and winter, the water levels rise, creating lovely cascades and reflections along the river.

Roley Pools offers a relaxed, family-friendly bush escape close to the city, with both cultural and natural highlights to enjoy.

Glen Brook Trail – John Forrest National Park

As WA’s oldest national park, John Forrest is packed with trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. The Glen Brook Trail (4.5km) is a standout, winding past granite outcrops, gullies, and native forest to a peaceful dam. Alternatively, the shorter 2.5km walk along Jane Brook to National Park Falls offers a gentler option.

Winter and spring are the best times to visit, when Hovea Falls and National Park Falls flow across moss-covered granite. For a longer challenge, the Eagle View Walk (15km) delivers sweeping views across the Swan Coastal Plain.

The park is just 30 minutes from Perth, with picnic areas, BBQs, and toilets available. Entry fees apply unless you have a WA Parks Pass. Dogs aren’t permitted, but kangaroos and birdlife are common sights.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking granite ridges, or just enjoying a picnic, John Forrest National Park is a classic Perth bushwalking destination.

Woodloes Walk Trail – Canning River Regional Park

Canning River Regional Park is a leafy haven just 20 minutes from the city. Spanning 6km between Shelley and Nicholson Road Bridges, it’s home to wetlands, paperbark forests, salt marshes, and wide grassy areas.

The Woodloes Walk Trail (6km return) follows the Canning River from Kent Street Weir to Masons Landing. It’s flat, pram- and bike-friendly, with interpretive signs along the way explaining local ecosystems. Other trails include the Banksia Hill Loop (1.5km), Butterflies, Birds & Bridges Trail (4km), and Lagoon to Living Streams Walk (4.8km). For something different, there’s also an 8km Wetlands Paddle Trail.

Start your adventure with coffee at the riverside café at Kent Street Weir, where you’ll also find toilets, BBQs, and a playground. Dogs are allowed on lead, making this a great family outing.

With its mix of bushland and suburban convenience, Canning River Regional Park is one of Perth’s most versatile bushwalking destinations.

John George Walk Trail – Woodbridge

If you’re after a peaceful riverside stroll, the John George Walk Trail in Woodbridge is a hidden gem. This 5.5km out-and-back path hugs the Swan River between Woodbridge Riverside Park and Reg Bond Reserve, offering a country feel just 25 minutes from the CBD.

The trail is mostly flat and paved, making it suitable for all ages. For a quieter vibe, opt for the gravel path closer to the river. Along the way, you’ll enjoy vineyard views, bushland, and riverside picnic stops.

Families will love finishing at the Woodbridge Riverside Playground, which is fully fenced and features nature play, flying foxes, and scooter tracks. There are toilets and shaded picnic areas nearby, and The Westie Café is perfect for post-walk coffee or a treat.

Dog-friendly and easy to access, this trail is a top pick for a relaxed weekend walk, morning jog, or riverside picnic.

F.R. Berry Reserve – Gidgegannup

Just 45 minutes from Perth, F.R. Berry Reserve offers 214 hectares of bushland, granite outcrops, and Wooroloo Brook. The 2.7km trail (30–45 minutes each way) is relatively easy, with numbered markers guiding you to a lookout over the brook and striking red granite formations.

After winter rain, the brook flows dramatically, but even in drier months, the pools and colourful granite make this a beautiful walk. Be cautious on the rocks when wet, as they can be slippery.

Facilities are basic but include picnic tables, a wood fire BBQ, and a toilet. Dogs are welcome on lead. Pack a picnic or stop at the Gidgegannup Bakery for a pre- or post-hike treat (their carrot cake is legendary).

With its mix of rugged landscapes and accessible trails, F.R. Berry Reserve is a fantastic day trip for families and bushwalkers alike.

Yanchep National Park – Yanchep

Yanchep National Park, just 45 minutes north of Perth, combines wildlife encounters with scenic trails. Koalas can be spotted along the boardwalk (though not native to WA), while kangaroos roam freely across the lawns.

For a short and easy option, try the Woodlands Walk (2.6km), featuring boardwalks and paperbark trees. For something more adventurous, the Ghost House Trail (12.4km loop) passes through wetlands and bushland, with the remains of the old “Ghost House” as a highlight.

The park is well-equipped with BBQs, picnic areas, and the historic Yanchep Inn for dining. Camping is available at Henry White Campground. National Park entry fees apply, and dogs are not permitted.

Whether you’re chasing wildlife, history, or a bushwalking challenge, Yanchep National Park delivers an easy and rewarding escape into nature.

When is the Best Time to Hike a Bush Trail in Perth?

While Perth’s trails can be enjoyed year-round, some seasons are better than others depending on the experience you’re after.

• Winter (June–August): The best time for waterfall hikes, as streams and brooks flow strongly after rain. Trails are cooler and lush with greenery.
• Spring (September–November): A favourite among locals – wildflowers bloom across the hills and reserves, wildlife is active, and the weather is perfect for longer hikes.
• Summer (December–February): Trails can be hot and dry, so stick to shorter walks early in the morning or explore shaded riverside tracks. Always carry extra water.
• Autumn (March–May): A great all-round season for bushwalking – mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and still plenty of colour in the landscape.

Overall, winter and spring are the most rewarding seasons for Perth bushwalking, especially if you want to see waterfalls and wildflowers at their best.

Need more inspiration for your next weekend outing? Check out our guide to the 8 best things to do in South Perth or explore 10 incredible bush trails to hike around the metro area!