Posted Tue 16 May 2023 at 07:06am
Take a closer look at some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in Perth and plan your next adventure with your furry companion.
Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, is home to breathtaking landscapes, including numerous nature reserves and national parks to discover. And for fur-parents, hiking with their pup can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Luckily, several dog-friendly hiking trails in Perth offer breathtaking views and challenging terrain suitable for you and your furry friend.
1. Bell Rapids River Walk
Life is better with a furry friend by your side, especially when you’re both up for an adventure! And what better place to explore than Bell’s Rapid with its two paw-some circuit walk trails – the easy 2.5km Riverwalk and moderately challenging 3km Goat walk. You can catch fantastic views of the annual Avon Descent, as well as beautiful landscapes featuring Bells Rapids, the countryside, and coastal plains. Along the way, you’ll come across gorgeous wildflowers (like the fuchsia grevilleas), colourful birdlife, and even some grey kangaroos (at certain times of the year).
Keep an eye on signposts to stay within the trail rules, as there are a few off-lead sections.
Area: Brigadoon
Distance: 2.5 km
Difficulty: Easy
Leash: Yes
2. Whistlepipe Gully Walk
Is your furry friend fond of frolicking in streams, or do they get excited by the sound of waterfalls? If either is the case, Whistlepipe Gully Walk is the adventure for you! This dog-friendly hiking trail in Perth meanders alongside a narrow river, showcasing a series of cascades and small waterfalls. Late winter or early spring is the optimal season to hike here with Fido, as the water flows and the wildflowers are in full bloom. You can even catch glimpses of the city from a few vantage points.
While not a particularly difficult trail, it’s essential to watch out for loose rocks and slippery clay, especially after rain.
Area: Forrestfield
Distance: 3.5 km
Difficulty: Easy
Leash: Off leash in some areas
3. Jarrahdale Railway Trail
The Jarrahdale Railway Trail is a gentle 8km return walk exploring a section of old timber tramway between Jarrahdale and Rockingham’s Jetty. This dog-friendly hiking trail in Perth is a well-known spot, so prepare to come across other people with their dogs during your hike. Take a breather on one of the benches and get ready to conquer the big hill. While the track is easy, don’t be surprised if your furry companions slow you down with their curious sniffing!
Although there aren’t many steep sections, the trail is not well marked, so refer to the map or app to avoid getting lost (we love a good walk but not a wrong turn). Keep your eyes peeled for hopping kangaroos, tweeting birds, and blooming wildflowers, which will surely keep your little one entertained.
Area: Jarrahdale
Distance: 8 km Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Leash: Off leash in some areas
4. Zamia Trail in Bold Park
This 5.1 km dog-friendly hiking trail’s diverse native flora and fauna, including wildflowers in the spring, make it a beautiful destination at any time of the day. Zamia Trail presents breathtaking views of the coastline and city with several lookouts on both the east and west sides of the loop. Visiting the park with your furry friend early in the morning will be a treat, as the chirping birds bring the park to life. On the other hand, those who visit at dusk are likely to encounter bats and possums.
Area: Floreat
Distance: 5.1 km loop
Difficulty: Easy
Leash: Yes, at all times
5. Chuditch Trail in lane Poole Reserve
For those who want to take it easy, snap some Instagram-worthy pics, and just enjoy the scenery with Fido, Chuditch Walk Trail is for you! This dog-friendly hiking trail in Perth is named after the western quoll, a super cute and furry marsupial that’s a local resident. Starting at Nanga Mill campground, the 7-km semi-loop trail offers stunning views of the Murray River that will leave you breathless. The trail is mostly flat and wide, so it’s an easy walk for hoomans of all fitness levels, as well as your furry bestie. Sure, there are a few hills to climb, but it’s nothing you and Fido can’t handle!
Area: Lane Pool Reserve
Distance: 7 km
Difficulty: Easy
Leash: Yes, at all times
6. Nature Trail – Len Howard Conservation Park
Nature Trail is an excellent choice for families, offering a chance to explore the outdoors and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. This dog-friendly hiking trail in Perth is short and easy, ideal for beginners with no bushwalking experience. Along the trail, take a break on the cosy seats provided and keep your eyes peeled for some special migratory waders or blooming springtime flowers. Dogs are allowed on leash and will have a paw-some time sniffing around.
Area: Erskine
Distance: 1km
Difficulty: Easy route
Leash: Must be worn at all times
7. Sixty Foot Falls Track, Ellis Brook Valley Reserve
This dog-friendly hiking trail in Perth is not for the faint-hearted, so if you and your pup are up for the challenge, it’s time to step up your game and hit the Sixty Foot Falls Trail. With a 2.1 km steep climb to the top of the magnificent Sixty Foot Falls, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city and the valley beneath. And as you make your way down past the old Barrington Quarry, you’ll get a sneak peek into the area’s geology. Just remember, the waterfall’s flow depends on the winter rainfall, so don’t be disappointed if it’s just a trickl.
Area: Ellis Brooke Valley Reserve
Distance: 2.1 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Leash: Yes, all times
8. Lake Gwelup
Strap on your hiking boots and prepare to explore Lake Gwelup’s 3.9 km loop trail packed with breathtaking views of the lake and the stunning surrounding landscapes with your four-legged partner. Whether you’re an experienced runner or a chilled-out stroller, this dog-friendly hiking trail in Perth is an absolute must-do. Stay alert and keep those binoculars handy to catch a glimpse of a wide variety of beautiful birds along the trail!
Area: Gwelup
Distance: 3.9 km
Difficulty: Ease
Leash: Yes, all times
Looking for a new adventure? Try out some of these dog-friendly activities in Margaret River.
