Perth Hills National Park

Perth Hills National Park is a sprawling wilderness just a 30-minute drive from Perth’s city centre, offering a dramatic escape into jarrah and marri forests, granite outcrops, and cascading waterfalls. This is where you come to feel the ancient pulse of the Darling Scarp, with walking trails that range from gentle family strolls to challenging day hikes. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, wildflower enthusiasts, and anyone craving fresh air and sweeping views over the Swan Coastal Plain.

Highlights & What to See

• Bells Rapids: A striking series of granite rapids on the Avon River, especially dramatic after winter rains. The Bells Rapids Walk Trail (2.5 km loop) offers panoramic views and is prime wildflower territory in spring.
• John Forrest National Park (adjacent): The state’s oldest national park, with the historic Swan View Tunnel, a railway tunnel you can walk through, plus the Eagle View Walk Trail and Jane Brook waterfall.
• Mount Dale Lookout: A short drive to a fire lookout tower that delivers 360-degree views across the park, the Avon Valley, and on clear days all the way to the coast.
• Lesmurdie Falls: One of Perth’s most photogenic waterfalls, plunging 50 metres over granite cliffs. The Lesmurdie Falls Walk Trail (1.5 km) is a must-do, especially in winter and spring when the water is flowing and wildflowers bloom.
• Mundaring Weir: A historic dam built in the gold-rush era to supply water to Kalgoorlie, now surrounded by picnic spots and the start of the Bibbulmun Track’s northern terminus.
• Wildflowers & Birdlife: From August to October, the park explodes with kangaroo paw, orchids, and everlastings. Keep an eye out for carnaby’s black cockatoos, western rosellas, and the elusive red-tailed phascogale.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate Perth Hills National Park, plan for a full day. Start early with a walk to Lesmurdie Falls (allow 1–2 hours), then drive to Bells Rapids for a shorter loop and picnic lunch. Afternoon can be spent exploring John Forrest National Park’s tunnel and Eagle View Walk (2–3 hours), with a sunset stop at Mount Dale Lookout. If you’re short on time, a half-day focused on either the southern (Lesmurdie) or northern (Bells Rapids) section is still rewarding. The park is best visited between June and November when waterfalls are flowing and wildflowers are at their peak.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mundaring: A charming hills town with the historic Mundaring Weir Hotel, art galleries, and the start of the Bibbulmun Track.
• Kalamunda: A gateway town with the Kalamunda History Village, the Zig Zag Scenic Drive, and access to the northern Bibbulmun Track.
• Swan Valley: Just north of the park, this wine region is perfect for a gourmet lunch, wine tasting, and chocolate or cheese stops after your hike.
• Avon Valley National Park: For more rugged scenery and river walks, combine with a drive through the Avon Valley to Toodyay.
• Perth City: The park is close enough for a day trip from the city, making it easy to combine urban sightseeing with nature.

Please check official sources for current details.