Waterfalls, lookouts and national parks in Perth

Perth's wild side is quieter and more subtle than you might expect. The city is wrapped in bush reserves, river parks and coastal heathland, and short walks can feel remote. The big draw is not mountains, but a mixture of river views, wetlands, limestone headlands and, in the hills, the odd waterfall. Lesmurdie Falls National Park in the hills is the best known waterfall, and it runs after winter rain. In the dry months it may shrink to almost nothing, so visit in winter or spring for a proper show. Bold Park's Zamia Trail at Floreat gives bush walking close to the coast, and Herdsman Lake Regional Park offers flat paths and birdlife. Canning River Regional Park, Manning Park at Hamilton Hill and Whiteman Park give bigger green spaces for exploring. On the coast, Cape Peron Loop Trail at Rockingham and Woodman Point Jetty and John Graham Reserve at Coogee give sea views and a different feel. Booyeembara Park in White Gum Valley offers mountain bike trails for older riders. Summer is hot and brings fire risk, so check warnings and walk early. Carry plenty of water, wear a hat and keep to the track. Snakes are part of the landscape in warmer months, so stay on paths and wear closed shoes.

Our picks

  • Lesmurdie Falls National Park Lesmurdie Falls National Park Forrestfield

    Lesmurdie Falls Picnic Area is on Falls Road in Mundy Regional Park in the Perth Hills, next to Lesmurdie Falls National Park, and is managed by the WA Department of…

    ★ 4.7 (2,855)

  • Manning Park Manning Park Hamilton Hill

    Manning Park is a City of Cockburn park of about 117 hectares north of Azelia Road, Hamilton Hill, and part of Beeliar Regional Park.

    ★ 4.7 (838)

  • Whiteman Park Whiteman Park Whiteman

    Whiteman Park in Whiteman, entered from Beechboro Road North or Drumpellier Drive, is a large bushland park open every day from 8:30am to 6pm.

    ★ 4.6 (5,066)

  • Canning River Regional Park Canning River Regional Park Wilson

    Canning River Regional Park runs for six kilometres along both sides of the Canning River and is managed by the Parks and Wildlife Service.

    ★ 4.6 (899)

  • Railway Reserves Heritage Trail (Swan View) Railway Reserves Heritage Trail (Swan View) Swan View

    The Railway Reserves Heritage Trail follows the old Eastern Railway through the Perth Hills in the Shire of Mundaring.

    ★ 4.7 (267)

  • Herdsman Lake Regional Park Herdsman Lake Regional Park Herdsman

    Herdsman Lake Regional Park is a wetland park in Perth's suburbs managed by the WA Parks and Wildlife Service (DBCA).

    ★ 4.6 (129)

Before you go

Best for which ages

Flat lake and river paths suit toddlers and preschoolers, especially in a carrier or pram. Primary children enjoy walks with a destination, like a waterfall, jetty or lookout. Teenagers may enjoy longer bush tracks and mountain bike trails with space to explore.

What to bring

Take water, snacks and sturdy closed shoes, plus a hat that stays on in a gusty wind. Pack insect repellent, since mosquitoes and flies can be a nuisance near water. A light jacket helps in winter, and a charged phone and a first-aid kit are sensible. A hat that stays on in the wind is worth more than a fancy one.

Parking and facilities

Whiteman Park and the larger reserves have good car parks and picnic areas. Smaller bush reserves have basic parking and few facilities. The listing says what is on site, and it helps to use toilets before setting out. On a weekend in wildflower season, the best car parks fill by mid-morning, so arrive early.

Best time of year

Winter and spring are the best for waterfalls and green bush, with spring bringing wildflowers. Summer is hot and dry, so walk early and check fire warnings. Autumn gives mild days and clear light for coastal tracks. After good winter rain the creeks run and the moss turns bright, which is when children enjoy it most.

Prams and accessibility

Lake and river paths are often flat and suit prams. Many bush tracks have sand, steps and rough surfaces and are not good for wheelchairs. Check the listing for surface details, and bring a carrier for rougher ground. Sandy paths wear out pram wheels fast, so choose the sealed lake paths if you have a baby.

Waterfalls, lookouts and forest walks

Walks the park service or council describes with a length and grade. Each listing says how far, how hard, and what is at the start.

All walks, waterfalls and lookouts in Perth, free and paid

Questions parents ask

Is Lesmurdie Falls worth visiting with children?
Yes, in winter and spring when it flows well. In dry months it may be a trickle. Keep children back from edges and wet rock, and check the listing for access and facilities.
What is an easy bush walk near Perth with a pram?
Flat lake and river paths, such as Herdsman Lake, are easier than hill tracks. Check the listing for surfaces and access, and bring a carrier as a backup.
Are there snakes on Perth bush walks?
Snakes live in the bush and can appear in warmer months. Stay on the track, wear closed shoes and teach children not to poke at logs or holes. Back away calmly if you see one.
When do the wildflowers bloom around Perth?
Spring is the wildflower season in the bush and in Kings Park. The display changes from year to year, so check local information before planning a trip.

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