Offering world-class walking and cycling trails through native forest, plus a brand-new MTB park, Nannup has been named WA’s third official Trail Town.

From the new Great Southern Trails network in NSW to e-mountain biking on Hamilton Island, MTB culture is continuing to gain traction among adventurous Aussies, encouraging people to get outdoors and explore regional pockets of the country. Now, it’s Nannup’s turn to step into the spotlight. 

Located in Western Australia’s scenic South West, around three hours south of Perth, the former timber-logging town is carving out a new identity as an adventure destination, with biking, hiking and cycling trails at its core. 

Joining Collie and Dwellingup, Nannup has earned its status as WA’S third official Trail Town following the opening of the new Pine Ridge MTB Park on 23 September. The accreditation has been years in the making, starting off as a bold community vision in 2017 and realised through the determination of volunteers, council members and businesses committed to transforming the town’s reputation. 

Today, visitors can explore more than 100 kilometres of trails, from technical MTB descents at Tank 7 – the original MTB park that put Nannup on the map – to family-friendly walking tracks winding through verdant native forest. 

“Nannup has a particularly strong cycling identity, from gravel and endurance riding through to mountain biking and downhill experiences," says Trails WA chairperson Suzanne Hillier. 

Whether you’re chasing challenging singletrack, a scenic ride or an easy walk beneath the trees, Nannup offers plenty of ways to get outdoors. And trails are only the start of the story. 

What is a Trail Town?

A Trail Town is a community accredited by Trails WA, in partnership with state government departments, as a premier destination for high-quality hiking, cycling or MTB trails. The stamp of approval recognises regional hubs with strong local businesses and outdoor experiences that encourage visitors to stay longer and connect with the community. 

Hillier hopes travellers will be inspired to build an itinerary around WA’s three Trail Towns, which each offer something different.  

“Spend a weekend discovering one, or link two or three Trail Towns together for a trail road trip. The trails might bring you there, but it’s often the town, the people and everything you discover along the way that makes you want to come back." 

Trails to explore in Nannup

More than 100 kilometres of multi-use trails await in Nannup, making the town a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. 

Designed to complement the town’s existing trail networks, the new Pine Ridge MTB Park has transformed the old Nannup Golf Course into a family-friendly riding destination. Here you’ll find a network of flowing trails for all ages and skill levels, with a strong focus on progression, building confidence and simply having a good time. The park was built by the renowned Sam Hill Signature Trails team, who led the construction of New Zealand’s Coronet Alpine Trail Network along with other projects throughout WA. 

Suitable for beginner to experienced riders, Tank 7 MTB Park is known for its raw terrain, flowing descents, technical features and scenic lookouts amid tall forests. It’s easily accessible from Nannup’s main street via the sealed, 1.8-kilometre Town to Tank trail. And nearby Ngoolark MTB Jump Park is great if you’re looking for a playground to level up your skills, with everything from sweeping berms, table tops and hip jumps. 

For road cyclists, there are plenty of well-signposted routes. The most popular is the UCL loop from Nannup, a moderate trail which spans nearly 30 kilometres through the Ellis Creek State Forest, known for its towering jarrah trees and historic milling sites. Local cyclists also love the longer Donnelly River Mill loop from Balingup for its varied forest landscapes.  

If you’re more of a walker than a rider, try Nannup’s 3.9-kilometre Blackwood River Walk for peaceful settings and birdwatching opportunities. Or opt for the leisurely three-kilometre Kondil Wildflower Park loop to see a variety of stunning blooms in winter and spring. 

You can learn more about Nannup’s trails on the Experience Nannup website.  

What if I don’t want to hike or bike?

Beyond its trails, there’s plenty to do in Nannup. Camp along a babbling brook in St John Brook Conservation, enjoy a riverside picnic or freshwater dip off the wooden jetty at Barrabup Pool, or explore the gorgeous Nannup Arboretum and Foreshore Park (a must for botanical buffs). 

Shopping enthusiasts can browse local homeware and boutique shops along Nannup’s main street, while foodies will love exploring regional produce trails with stops such as Cambray Cheese and Nannup Lavender Farm. And to end the day, there’s no better way to unwind than grabbing a craft beer at Nannup Brewing Company.