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The best walks and hikes for an active day in Perth

From coastal boardwalks to wildflower-rich bush trails, Perth offers hikes to suit both casual walkers and experienced adventurers.

Whether you’re craving a gentle stroll to spot wildflowers or a lung-pumping climb for panoramic views, there’s a walk or hike for every mood and fitness level. Lace up your hiking boots, pack water and get walking. We’ve rounded up 12 of the best hikes and walks in Perth.

In short

If you only do one serious hike, make it the Eagle View Trail in John Forrest National Park for waterfalls, wildflowers and city skyline and even ocean views. If you’ve only got time for something shorter, hit the Zamia Trail in City Beach for short steep climbs offering sweeping views.

1. Sullivan Rock to Mount Cooke (Darling Range)

Sullivan Rock to Mount Cooke (Darling Range)
Walk to the highest point in the Darling Range, Mt Cooke. (Image: DBCA)

Distance: 18.4 kilometres return (8 hours)

Getting there: 1 hour from Perth

Accessibility: Grade 4; hiking experience recommended due to steep final climb.

Facilities: Campground, public toilets, shaded rest areas, water access at Mount Cooke.

This hike begins through creeklined forests of sheoak, banksia, and jarrah, steadily working its way up to the summit ridge of Mount Cooke. The payoff is a sweeping panorama over the Darling Range, especially dramatic at sunrise, and a chance to camp overnight if you want the peace of dusk and dawn.

2. Eagle View Trail, John Forrest National Park

a bicycle trail in John Forrest National Park, Perth
Traverse scenic vistas on two wheels. (Image: Kevin Smith)

Distance: 15-kilometre loop (56 hours)

Getting there: 40 minutes from Perth.

Accessibility: Grade 34; decent fitness required for climbs and undulating terrain.

Facilities: Picnic spots, public toilets, shaded areas; kiosk closer to Ranger’s Office.

Winding through valleys and woodlands, this trail delivers a little bit of everything  – from creekbeds and pretty waterfalls to sweeping views to Perth CBD and the Indian Ocean in the distance. The Jane Brook section also blossoms in wildflowers come spring.

3. Whistlepipe Gully Trail, Mundy Regional Park

Distance: 3.5-kilometre loop (1.5 hours)

Getting there: 30 mins from Perth CBD

Accessibility: Grade 3 – uneven surfaces, some hills

Facilities: Limited street parking, no toilets on site

Tracing the course of a gully, this short but picturesque walk takes you past granite boulders and the remnants of an old stone house. It’s particularly beautiful from July to November when the river flows and wildflowers bloom.

3. Bibbulmun Track: Kalamunda to Mundaring Weir

the Bibbulmun Track Northern Terminus, Kalamunda
The legendary Bibbulmun Track winds through Kalamunda in the Perth Hills to Albany on the south coast. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Distance: 1734 kilometres one-way (or return sections)

Getting there: 40 minutes from Perth.

Accessibility: Grade 4; steep sections and loose gravel in parts.

Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, water access along the track.

A taste of the legendary Bibbulmun in just a few hours – this stretch leads you through dripping forest, across babbling streams, over wooden bridges and rocky features. It’s not the full multiweek trail, but you’ll feel the essence: remoteness, changing terrain and a satisfying sense of distance. Perfect if you want to push your legs without committing to days.

4. Zamia Trail, Bold Park

Distance: 5.1-kilometre loop (1.5 hours)

Getting there: 15 minutes from Perth CBD

Accessibility: Grade 3 – compacted limestone, moderate inclines

Facilities: Carpark, scenic lookouts, rest benches

This well-marked trail loops through native bushland in Bold Park, offering sweeping views across the Indian Ocean and Perth city skyline. There are several lookout points to pause and take it in, and it’s a peaceful walk year-round.

5. Kitty’s Gorge, Serpentine National Park

swimming in the natural pool at Serpentine Falls, Perth
Swim in the natural pool at Serpentine Falls. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Distance: 16.5 kilometres return (or 14-kilometre loop depending on route) (46 hours)

Getting there: 1 hour from Perth.

Accessibility: Grade 3; some steep steps and loose gravel terrains; slippery when wet.

Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas, shaded spots.

This trail gives rewarding variety – cascading creeks, waterfalls, granite outcrops, dense bushland. There are scenic diversions like Stacey’s Loop, and quieter moments if you start from Jarrahdale. Keep an eye on the time, because returning along steeper ascents can test your legs.

6. Jorgensen Park Trail, Kalamunda

Distance: 2.7-kilometre loop (1 hour)

Getting there: 30 mins from Perth CBD

Accessibility: Grade 2  – former golf course, easy terrain

Facilities: Carpark, nearby toilets

An easy-going loop that follows old Kalamunda Gold Club fairways and weaves through bushland, occasionally intersecting with the Bibbulmun Track. The trail takes you through dense bushland that opens up onto stunning valley views.

7. Baldwin’s Bluff Trail, Serpentine National Park

Serpentine Falls from above
Soak up sweeping views of Serpentine Falls and the valley below. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Distance: 6-kilometre loop (2 hours)

Getting there: 1 hour from Perth.

Accessibility: Grade 4; steep in parts, rocky surfaces; best for hikers with good footwear.

Facilities: Picnic areas and public toilets; same park amenities as Kitty’s Gorge.

Less travelled than its neighbour Kitty’s Gorge, Baldwin’s Bluff offers solitude. The climb to the summit yields sweeping views of Serpentine Falls and the valley below, framed by jarrah and marri woodland. It’s a compact hike but doesn’t skimp on impact.

8. Trigg Bushland Reserve Trail

Distance: 3.4-kilometre loop (40 minutes)

Getting there: 20 mins from Perth

Accessibility: Grade 2 – compacted paths, some undulations

Facilities: Informal parking, trail signage

Tucked between suburb and sea, this coastal bushland trail is a springtime favourite with wildflower enthusiasts. You’ll be treated to sea glimpses from elevated spots, and the loop’s short length makes it ideal for a brisk walk or an easy nature escape.

9. Palm Terrace Walk, Forrestfield

Lesmurdie Falls, Palm Terrace Walk, Forrestfield
Walk to the spectacular Lesmurdie Falls in the Mundy Regional Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Distance: 5.5-kilometre loop (13 hours)

Getting there: 30 minutes from Perth.

Accessibility: Grade 3; sections of steep climb; some loose gravel.

Facilities: Public toilets, picnic spots, water access, scenic lookout points.

An underrated gem in the Perth Hills, this loop delivers views you’ll remember – especially if you take the detour to Lesmurdie Falls. The trail edges past ridges and valleys, through native bush, offering quiet moments away from the crowds. Best when the wildflowers bloom.

10. Numbat Trail, Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary

th Avon Valley as seen from Numbat Trail, Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary
Take in spectacular views of the surrounding Avon Valley. (Image: Tiff Watson)

Distance: 12-kilometre loop (35 hours)

Getting there: 1 hour from Perth.

Accessibility: Grade 3; some steep switchbacks and rough terrain.

Facilities: Toilets, picnic areas; booking may be required in certain seasons.

This trail is a rich mix of wildlife, water and elevation. You’ll begin by the lake, climb through White Gum Forest up to a lookout, then wind through woodlands and ridges. In the green season it’s lush, alive with birds and blooms – a real immersive nature escape.

11. Sixty Foot Falls, Ellis Brook Valley Reserve

Distance: 2-kilometre loop (1 hour)

Getting there: 1 hour from Perth.

Accessibility: Grade 4; steep sections especially on ascent/descent; watch for slippery parts after rain.

Facilities: Car park, picnic areas, public toilets and lookouts with views.

Don’t underestimate this short trail – the climb is steep, but the reward is big: views over Ellis Brook Valley, striking falls (especially after rain), and varied terrain that keeps each step interesting. A perfect quick but satisfying hike.

 

Kirsty Petrides
Kirsty Petrides is a writer, wine-lover and cheese enthusiast. Whether she’s hunting down the best restaurant in Albania, foraging the Marrakech markets for spices or camping in the middle of Patagonian wilderness, she loves to seek out the authentic side of the places she visits, and share that with readers through her writing.
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Theatre, art and music: Our top picks from this year’s Perth Festival lineup

Credit: Jessia Wyld Photograpghy

    Lynn GailBy Lynn Gail
    Blend the addictive energy of dance, creative cinematic movies, captivating theatre, and energising music during Perth Festival.

    Perth Festival has extraordinary roots. Born as a summer community experiment back in 1953, the brainchild of Professor Fred Alexander, it’s now Australia’s longest-running international art-based festival. From its first event at University of Western Australia, it now spans across Noongar Boodjar country (Perth City) bringing worldclass performances into the hearts of ardent festivalgoers. Hundreds of curtain calls, including numerous free events, are set to linger and leave a lasting impression on those who seek thrills that fill life’s in-between spaces. Featuring unmissable highlights from 6th February to 1st March, we’ve done the legwork for you – here’s what’s on, and where:

    1. East Perth Power Station

    East Perth Power Station during Perth Festival
    See East Perth Power Station come alive. (Image: Jessica Wyld Photography)

    Abandoned, run-down and shutdown in 1981, East Perth Power Station , located on the banks of the stunning Swan River, was reinvented in 2025 as an entertainment venue for the Perth Festival. Pack a picnic, bring the family and kick back under paperbark trees at Casa Musica – a free event featuring a melting pot of world-class musicians from Australian shores and around the globe. The diversity will have you bopping until the final encore.

    A decade after David Bowie’s passing, his powerful music lives on in the electrifying show, Rebel Rebel . Powerhouse vocalists join Perth Symphony Orchestra for one incredible night showcasing the singer-songwriter’s iconic hits. Illuminate your world through the eyes of First Nation Noongar artist, Lance Chadd Tjyllyungoo in a free event. His distinctive paintings and Dreamtime stories decorate the Power Station’s walls depicting spiritual beliefs. Or settle in to watch British indie pop singer-songwriter, Nilüfer Yanya .

    2. St Mary’s Cathedral

    Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth
    Take in Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth. (Image: Anja Schutz)

    Step into the lofty ceilings of Perth’s grandest cathedral, St Mary’s, and soak up choral harmonies. Dating back to 1865, the stained-glass reproductions of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper are a talking point, add talented maestros, and the stage is set to enthral.

    The international line-up is impressive. Master Irish fiddler, Martin Hayes takes to the stage with exquisite lyrical compositions from his native land. Åkervinda , an award winning Swedish quartet, weave stories of love, loss, and resilience into harmonious Nordic folk songs. The USA Grammy Award-winning vocal group, Roomful of Teeth , break all the rules. Hear their voices echo through the arched vaulted ceilings.

    3. Lotterywest Films

    guests at Lotterywest Films as part of Perth Festival
    Discover the Lotterywest Films program. (Credit: Jessia Wyld Photograpghy)

    One of the festivals longest-running favourites, Lotterywest Films run a rich tapestry of cinematic features showing until 29th of March. Pack a picnic, cushions, popcorn and pop a cork under a Somerville Pine Tree as the sun sets and screenings begin. Cinema lovers, choose your poison from thrillers, deep-dive documentaries, tearjerkers, raunchy rom-coms and side-splitting comedies. The program is fantastically full, the filmmakers the best in the business, and the outdoor setting, unequalled.

    4. The Embassy

    guests at The EMbassy as part of Perth Festival
    Step into the old world glitz of The Embassy. (Image: Franz Bato)

    Modelled on Perth’s historic Embassy Ballroom, a devilish dance venue that operated in the 1900s, The Embassy in Perth Town Hall , serves sophistication in its A-list shows. Set your sequins a’sparkle at the, What’s TINA Got to Do With It extravaganza where guest artists play tribute as they belt out the glitzy star’s hits. The returning act, Ali Bodycoat & The Embassy Big Band, will have you jiving as you take to the dance floor reimagining a bygone era. Who doesn’t like chocolate? Black-bearded drag sensation, La Gateau Chocolat puts the raw in cacao. World-renowned for his feisty range of storied songs, he reveals the inner-man come artist through his deliciously sweet and intimate act.

    5. Unusual locations

    still from The Trial theatre
    Watch a star-studded cast in The Trial. (Image: Cole Baxter)

    We’ve all heard of the hit show, The Office, but a spinetingling operatic thriller acted out in disused office space? Philip Glass’ nail-biter, The Trial , has a star-studded line-up. Together they deliver a dramatic ordeal showcasing Oscar-winner Christopher Hampton’s libretto; the suspense lingers after the final bow.

    Sit back under starry skies and soak up dynamic dance at Ballet at the Quarry: Incandescence .  Four exclusive classical and contemporary acts illuminate the amphitheatre’s stage as Perth City twinkles at nightfall. Mystery excites the mind. West Australian Opera returns again with another ‘secret opera’. Be led from an undisclosed meeting point and let the music lead to the secret.

    6. A View From A Bridge

    A View From A Bridge special event at Perth Festival
    Share your innermost thoughts at A View From A Bridge.

    Free, connecting strangers, and inclusive to everyone, artist, Joe Bloom’s collaborative project, A View From A Bridge has one prop – an old red telephone. Talk into the receiver , share thoughts, innermost feelings, memories, hopes and dreams as Bloom captures you from afar. The freedom to speak through the telephone movement has a worldwide following. A range of clips will be shown online.

    What else to do in Perth

    Shadow Wine Bar in perth
    Taste the best of Perth at eateries like Shadow Wine Bar.

    Endless blue skies crown Perth during February, making it the perfect time to explore Australia’s most western capital city. The city might be compact, but it packs a punch when it comes to what’s on. Perth Cultural Centre houses the city’s art-scene venues: Western Australian Art Gallery, WA Museum Boola Bardip and Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA).

    After exploring the city’s alleyways, hidden corners, and main hub, savour worldclass food in Perth’s vibrant eateries. Award-winning restaurants, rooftop bars, and cafes can be found throughout; the leisurely eat-and-drink scene is literally mouthwatering, so book extra nights.

    Start planing your 2026 trip to Perth Festival at perthfestival.com.au .