Walkies! Grab the leash, it’s time to take your furry friends on an adventure in the Perth Hills. While the Hills are full of National Parks (where dogs are not permitted), it has plenty of paths where dogs are welcome to tag along and enjoy a good sniff. Cooler months, between April and October, are best for a wander.
Be sure to keep your dog leashed. This protects them from snake bites, attacks from wildlife (kangaroos and bobtail lizards), and eating fox bait. Be sure to take along water for both of you, including a handy collapsible dog bowl. And remember, always leave no trace – take along plenty of doggie bags too.
Whether you have two legs, of four, you’ll love walking these Perth Hills trails.
Noble Falls Walk Trail, Gidgegannup (3.6km loop)
This lovely loop trail begins at the Noble Falls picnic area, and follows Wooroloo Brook past the cascading Noble Falls. The easy trail should take around 45 minutes to complete, making it ideal for families too. Winter and spring bring flowing falls and blooming native wildflowers. Afterwards, pop over the road to the Noble Falls Tavern for a pub lunch in the courtyard, or BYO sandwiches to devour in the Noble Falls picnic area.
Railway Reserves Heritage Trail, Mundaring (41km loop, easily walked in shorter sections)
This dog-friendly walk is best-enjoyed in bite-sized sections. Not only does this make it much easier, it guarantees there’s always something new to sniff! Highlights include the old Darlington Railway Platform, as well as many parks, including Mundaring Sculpture Park. There’s also many dog-friendly cafes and pubs to stop at along the way – like the Mount Helena Tavern and the Mundaring Hotel. Please note that dogs are not permitted on the John Forrest National Park section of the trail.
Jorgensen Park, Kalamunda (3km loop)
Jorgensen Park was once the old Kalamunda golf course, making it an open and scenic trail for dogs. This spot is very popular with locals, for an easy, everyday walk with their doggos. It’s also a great place to head after a walk around one of the town’s markets. Just be sure not to wander into the Kalamunda National Park!
Armadale Settlers Common, Bedfordale (1km to 10km)
Dive paw-first into nature at Armadale Settlers’ Common. Whether you’re up for a leisurely stroll with your dog, or an adventurous hike, this lush 383-hectare bushland reserve has got all bases covered. Wander down the Jeeriji Trail to spot THAT hollow towering tree! For sweeping city views, head up to Charcoal Hill Lookout, Observation Circle or follow the Ngangangarra Trail to Yongah View.
Jarrahdale Railway Heritage Trail (9.8km or 4km loop)
The bushy trail runs along the babbling Gingagup Brook, through forests and down the old rail tracks. The 1872 Heritage Railway Trails begins at the Information Bay on the corner of Nettleton and Jarrahdale Roads. The trail features historical trail markers, beautiful views, picnic spots, and plenty for dogs to explore.
FR Berry Reserve (2.7km return)
Wooroloo Brook flows through Noble Falls to the red rocks of FR Berry Falls. Dogs are allowed to walk along the trail loop at this reserve, which is best visited when the falls are flowing in winter. Sit by the water’s edge and enjoy the great outdoors, while dogs will love a splash!
Kep Track, Mundaring
Like many Perth Hills’ trails, the 75km Kep Track follows an old railway line. This long track, from Mundaring to Northam, can be fun to explore for humans and dogs, in small sections. Take a walkie along the famous Kalgoorlie pipeline. It’s best to start from the corner of Firewood and Mundaring Weir Roads, as dogs are not permitted within three kilometres of Mundaring Weir. Head north towards Mundaring and hike for as long as you like.
Whistlepipe Gully Trail, Kalamunda (3.5km)
This steep gravel trail follows a flowing stream (winter and spring) that runs down the escarpment’s granite outcrops, past curious old building foundations, and has sweeping views of the Perth CBD. Hit the track in early spring, when native wildflowers are in bloom. Begin your wander at the bottom of the hill, at the northern end of Lewis Road, Forrestfield.
Roley Pools Heritage Walk Trails (from 1km to 3.2km)
The beautiful Roley Pools are a stunning spot for a wander year-round. Four walk trails wind along the Canning River, over large granite rocks – perfect for a doggie paddle. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, wallabies and rakali (a native otter), so be sure to keep your dogs on lead.
Mundlimup Timber trail, Jarrahdale (3km loop)
Yet another lovely walk along an old railway route, this beautiful spot along a 1890s timber tramway features historic trail markers like saw pits, and shady spots to stop and soak up nature. When exploring Jarrahdale’s timber heritage around this loop you’ll notice how the forest has recovered from its logging past.
Lesmurdie Falls (2.4km loop)
Depending on how far your dog likes to wander, there’s trails at Lesmurdie Falls from 650m to 3kms long. Late winter and early spring is the best time to visit Perth’s biggest waterfall. The five walking trails mainly begin at the Falls Road car park, where there are toilets, water, and picnic facilities too.
Walking in the Perth Hills with dogs is such a treat! Be sure to put your paws up at a dog friendly café or pub afterwards. Happy walking!
