Search bushwalks Page 19

Environment

Starting from the Reabold Hill car park on Scenic Drive, just off Oceanic Drive, City Beach, this walk takes you on a circuit within Bold Park via the Zamia Trail. Boasting stunning inner-city views, the Zamia Trail is a hidden gem in the Perth area. Bold Park is one of the largest remaining bushland remnants in the urban area of the Swan Coastal Plain with an abundance of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. The trail is dotted with little park benches, most with a beautiful view over the city or the ocean, making for a perfect place to have lunch in the great outdoors. A short side trail leads to Ocean Views Lookout with panoramic views of the ocean and a couple of park benches to sit for a while and enjoy the views. The Zamia Trail is a well-signposted walk on compacted limestone. There are a few sloping hills along the way, requiring a reasonable level of fitness. The trail partially overlaps a horse riding trail, so be mindful when walking through that small part of the track. Your four-legged friends are welcome but must be kept on a leash. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Zamia Trail

5.2 km circuit

1 h 30 min to 2 h 15 min

1 h 30 min to 2 h 15 min

Run

40 min to 1 h 15 min

Pets

Environment

Bus

Bluff Lookout, Lake Argyle

Bluff Lookout, Lake Argyle

5.2 km return

1 h 30 min to 2 h

Starting from the Lake Argyle Resort on Lake Argyle Road, Lake Argyle, this walk takes you to the Bluff Lookout and back via the Bluff Walk Trail. Lake Argyle is a freshwater lake set amidst a gorgeous hilly landscape. Filled with wildlife and colourful flora, this place is a safe haven for many. It's stunningly picturesque, as the reddish cliffs are sharply cut by the dark blue of the water from below and the light blue of the sky above. There are multiple bushwalks starting near the resort that allow you to explore the fauna and history of the region. One of them is the Bluff Walk Trail, which takes you around the cove to the 'Bluff', an excellent lookout over the lake and the resort. There's a lot to see along the way, and once you get to the lookout, the view is amazing. Look out for the interesting wildlife you may see in the area, including birds, marsupials, reptiles, insects and maybe even an echidna. There is very little shade on this walk, so it's best to walk in the early morning to beat the heat. Long trousers are recommended as the spinifex grass can be scratchy against your legs. The trail is well signposted, so there's very little chance of getting lost. Maps are provided by reception when you check-in, and the staff are happy to answer any questions. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from the car park at the end of Mount John Road, Yalgorup National Park, this walk takes you past the Lake Clifton Thrombolites, then along the edge of the lake and back via the Lake Clifton Walk Trail. Lake Clifton is pretty scenic and is part of a series of lakes near the coast. The main attraction here is the thrombolites, with the micro-organisms forming clusters on the edges of the lake resembling round limestone rocks. These living rock-like structures can be seen up close by taking the path west from the car park, where there is plenty of parking available, along with a toilet block, picnic tables and an information shelter. You may then head along a boardwalk between the Paperbarks, having a chance to view the thrombolites from various angles. In summer and autumn, the thrombolites are more visible due to lower levels of water. You can take on the Lake Clifton Walk Trail if you're looking for a more extended journey. The trail is flat and easy but offers minimal views of the lake. Interpretive signs along the trail provide an insight into the native fauna and flora that call this place home. This is far from a monotonous area to explore, so while the trail may be fairly straightforward and basic, the variety of things you'll see if you really look closely is immense. In spring, you'll experience wildflowers, and if you're lucky, you may spot some wildlife along the way. Let us begin by acknowledging the Pinjarup people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Lake Clifton

5.3 km circuit

1 h 30 min to 2 h

Cafe

Environment

Starting from Lake Clifton Trambolites Car Park, Herron, this walk takes you on a stroll alongside Lake Clifton. This walk is a peaceful and picturesque one with a historical background. The area is host to ancient thrombolites that you can visit at the beginning. You can also see paperbarks, melaleucas, peppermints and tuarts as you traverse with the open views of the like beside you. It is best to visit the area when the tides are low, and the formations beneath the water can be observed easily. The area is prone to damage and fragile, so you might want to take extra care during your journey. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Lakeside Walk

5.3 km circuit

20 min to 1 h

Environment

Syd's Rapids and Aboriginal Heritage Trail

Syd's Rapids and Aboriginal Heritage Trail

5.3 km return

1 h to 1 h 30 min

Starting from the Walyunga Pool Carpark off Walyunga Road, Walyunga National Park, this walk leads to Syd's Rapids and back via the Syd's Rapids and Aboriginal Heritage Trail. Walyunga National Park sits on the very rim of the Darling Scarp, and protects nearly 1,800 hectares of virgin bushland and its resident native animals. Just to the east of the park, in the picturesque Avon Valley, the Avon River joins the Brockman River to form the Swan River which passes through the tree lined valley. The Swan-Avon River runs through the centre of the park, forming a string of placid pools along the valley floor in summer, and a raging torrent with long series of rapids in winter. The area is a popular location for whitewater rafting and canoeing, and the Avon Descent runs through here over the first weekend of August, with Syd's Rapids being a good spot for spectators. The park is also known for sensational wildflowers in winter and spring. Visit Walyunga National Park after some rain for the most incredible rapids display to complement the rugged valley scenery. The walk to Syd's Rapids is a gentle, mostly flat hike along the river's edge, suitable for first timers and families. The trail reveals the aboriginal myths, stories and traditional uses of the river, landscape and local fauna and flora in this beautiful location. There is ample parking at the main picnic sites, and facilities include toilets, gas barbecues and picnic tables. With a combination of beautiful views, national park scenery, an abundance of flora and fauna, cultural history, and a chance for some wildlife spotting, this is a great adventure for the curious hiker. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Starting from the car park at the end of Stony Hill Road, Torndirrup National Park, this walk takes you past Stony Hill Lookout, then to Peak Head and back via the Stony Hill Heritage Trail and Peak Head Walk Trail. Stony Hill Heritage Tail provides a scenic circuit with 360-degree views of Torndirrup National Park and the Albany area. The wildflowers make the heathland feel alive when in season, along with the black cockatoo population. There are informational signposts along the track that explain the thought process of the pioneers of the area. You can get to this section via another track that branches off Stony Hill Road (near the car park) as well. You may get to the starting point of the Peak Head Walk Trail via this track. The trail descends steeply via a rugged path through heath before rising up the summit of Peak Head itself. You'll need to clamber up some rocks to get to the top. Good gripping shoes are a definite requirement, and the scramble could be perilous in wet weather. Keep in mind that there may be rock climbers present on the cliffs below you. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Stony Hill and Peak Head

5.4 km return

1 h 30 min to 2 h

Stony Hill and Peak Head

Environment

Starting from the entrance to Martins Tank campground, this circuit track takes you to Lake Pollard via an undulating track, with a bird hide present near the shore. This captivating journey winds through a landscape decorated with tuart, peppermint, and grass trees. The aforementioned hide overlooking Lake Pollard lets visitors have a glimpse into the amazing avian species in this area. The well-defined track to the lake is flat and smooth, following a sandy vehicle access trail. As you approach the lake, the landscape transitions, characterized by the emergence of white-trunked saltwater paperbark trees and shell grit along the path. Upon your return, you'll trace your steps along a fire break and a private property fence before rejoining Preston Beach Road to conclude your adventure. Discover the natural wonders of Yalgorup National Park, home to 10 elongated lakes enveloped by tuart and peppermint woodlands, and be sure to marvel at Lake Clifton's remarkable thrombolites if you have some spare time, as they are the largest collection in the southern hemisphere. Let us begin by acknowledging the Pinjarup people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Lake Pollard Circuit

5.5 km circuit

1 h 15 min to 2 h 15 min

1 h 15 min to 2 h 15 min

Birdwatching

Environment

Rural

Ellen Cove to the Port of Albany

Ellen Cove to the Port of Albany

5.5 km return

1 h to 1 h 30 min

Starting from the car park at the end of Flinders Parade, Middleton Beach, this walk takes you along the Ellen Cove Boardwalk, then to the Port of Albany and back. Commencing at Ellen Cove, a gently sloping boardwalk climbs the hillside, providing incredible views of the King George Sound. The boardwalk transitions to a bitumen path wrapping around Mount Adelaide into Ataturk Channel, arriving finally at the port, where you can head into town or return the same way you came. There are many interesting features dotted along the way, including lookouts, historic buildings, old WWII army bunkers and monuments to past leaders and explorers. At certain times of the year, whales can be seen in the bay. The historic elements complement the absolutely stunning natural scenery, making this one of the best ways to experience the coastline of Albany and immerse yourself in its rich history. The multi-use pathway is a mixture of wooden boardwalk and bitumen path, equally enjoyable whether walking, jogging or cycling. It is also accessible for prams and wheelchair users with assistance. Dogs are permitted on the path only and must be kept on a leash at all times. Let us begin by acknowledging the Minang/Menang Noongar people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Environment

Bus

Spectacles Aboriginal Heritage Loop

Spectacles Aboriginal Heritage Loop

5.5 km circuit

1 h 30 min to 3 h

Starting from the car park on McLaughlan Road, The Spectacles, this walk takes you on a circuit around The Spectacles Wetlands. This is one of the two walks in the area, and it traverses through the wetland. You can enjoy the views the wetland provides you as you walk in between the bush settings and boardwalks, reading the informative signs about the Aboriginal Heritage (Nyoongar people). The area also hosts a variety of birdlife, and the flora is also diverse with wildflowers and fungi such as eucalyptus, wattle and paperbark trees. You might want to visit the area after some rain for a better experience. Additionally, dogs are allowed in the park considering they are on a leash. Let us begin by acknowledging the Nyoongar people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Pets

Environment

Starting from Stokes Inlet Campground, Coomalbidgup, this walk takes you on a journey alongside the Stokes Inlet. This is both an informative and visually appealing walk; visitors can enjoy open views over stokes inlet and can learn about ancient Zamias. The area hosts a great variety of birds and is suitable for observation. The inlet is also open for certain recreational activities such as kayaking, fishing and swimming. Normal fisheries regulations apply; the species are black bream, Australian salmon, King George whiting and mullet. Additionally, Section 1 has a bench at the halfway point, and although the texture varies, the walk is mostly flat. There are only stairs at the end that descend to a dirt car park at the end of the trail. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Stokes Heritage Trail

5.5 km return

2 h 30 min to 4 h

Stokes Heritage Trail

Environment

Karlinyah Bidi, Wadjemup Bidi

Karlinyah Bidi, Wadjemup Bidi

5.6 km oneway

1 h 30 min to 3 h

Starting from the car park on Bovell Way, Rottnest Island, this walk takes you to Rocky Bay, visiting Catherine Bay, Stark Bay, City of York Bay and Little Armstrong Bay along the way. You can enjoy the unfolding sceneries to the west and panoramic views of Lake Baghdad as you continue alongside the coastal areas and enjoy the azure ocean on the northern side. The warm weather allows natural life to thrive, so expect to see many wildlife friends during your journey. In Stark Bay, you can take off your shoes and walk in the shallow inviting turquoise waters. You might want to bring sunscreen, hats and plenty of water as the track doesn't have much shade. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Swim

Environment

Ferry

Starting from the Old Mill Dam picnic area off Tomingley Road, Dryandra, this walk takes you on a circuit via the Woylie Walk Trail. This easy loop walk takes you through Dryandra Woodland, a major conservation area that contains the largest remnant of original vegetation within the vast Western Wheatbelt. The trail winds its way through woodlands of wandoo, powderbark, kwongan heathlands, jarrah and sheoak. The gradient is fairly even, with some minor hills along the way. The trail markers are clear and visible throughout the walk, making navigation very easy. Keep an eye out for rare and endangered animals such as the bilby, woylie and numbat, as well as the common grey kangaroo, echidna, tammar wallaby and the pygmy possum. You can also take a nocturnal tour of nearby Barna Mia Animal Sanctuary to see some of Dryandra's inhabitants at close range. The area is especially scenic in spring, between September and early November, with spectacular wildflowers in bloom. Pets are not permitted. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

Woylie Walk Trail

5.6 km circuit

1 h 30 min to 2 h

Starting from the Z Bend car park at the end of Z Bend Access Road, Kalbarri National Park, this walk takes you down to the Murchison River and back via the Four Ways Trail. Following the Four Ways Trail, the hike initially passes through the typical mix of low heath and mallee common to the Kalbarri area, then begins to descend into a side gorge leading to the river. The scenery gets more interesting as the gorge deepens. The Four Ways Trail ends at the Murchison River gorge, providing a spectacular viewpoint of its namesake. The well-marked trail is a mixture of sandy and rocky surfaces, with a continuous gradient down to the river. The steep uphill return journey back to the car park is more challenging. Facilities at the car park include informative displays, gas barbecues, picnic shelters and toilets. Beware of loose rocks and unstable surfaces, and be careful with foot placement to avoid sprains. Avoid doing this walk during the wet autumn due to high river levels and dangerously hot summer months. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Highlights

Four Ways Trail

5.7 km return

2 h to 3 h

Environment

Starting from the car park at the end of Bolganup Road, Porongurup, this return walk will take you through a magnificent karri forest in higher and jarrah/marri at lower slopes. The forest will bring solidity and serenity if you want to listen to yourself for a little while, and it hosts the tree in rock, a giant tree rising from the middle of a huge rock. Additionally, The park has one of the widest variety of plant species as well. The weather can change faster than you anticipate, so you might want to wear the appropriate clothing and check the weather beforehand. Unfortunately, no pets, campfires and firearms are allowed. Let us begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we travel today, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

Environment

Wansbrough Trail

5.7 km return

2 h to 3 h 30 min