Throw down a rug and bring the chips ‘n dips! There’s something special about tucking into a picnic in the Perth Hills. There’s a sense of escape here, just a short drive from suburbia. Perth Hills has it all: from shady spots under a tree, a place to refuel after a bushwalk, to somewhere to sizzle sausages or a lush lawn in a park that’s perfect for play. Here’s your guide to our best picnic spots in the Gidgegannup, Mundaring, Kalamunda, Armadale, and Serpentine-Jarrahdale regions. Pack a basket full of goodies, grab a blanket, and choose one of nature’s best dining rooms in the Perth Hills.
PICNIC SPOTS IN GIDGEGANNUP
Noble Falls is just a short drive from Gidgegannup’s centre. The picnic areas along the banks of the Wooroloo Brook offer plenty of cool spots under the leafy gum trees. There are toilets, a small playground, plus BBQ facilities if you’re in the mood for a sizzle. The Noble Falls are small, but mighty. In winter and spring, the cascades really put on a show. There’s a short walk trail around the Falls for a bit of post-picnic exploring. Plus, it’s dog friendly, so you can take the entire family along.
If you’re after a more rustic, peaceful setting, FR Berry Reserve is a top pick for a picnic. This boasts a walk trail through beautiful bushland, an easy 2.7kms length for stretching your legs, before settling down for a picnic by the famous berry-red waterfall (flowing in winter and spring). Facilities include toilets and picnic tables found at the car park.
PICNIC SPOTS IN THE MUNDARING REGION
Lake Leschenaultia is a firm favourite and for very good reason. The lovely lake has plenty of picnic tables, free BBQs and lush green lawns to spread out your picnic blanket. If you’re keen on a swim, the lake offers a beach and designated swimming area with calm waters – ideal for cooling off after your feed. There’s also weekend canoe hire for the adventurous (in warmer months), walking trails, mountain bike trails, and a train playground.
For a picnic with a side of history, Mundaring Weir is a must-visit. The weir is a significant part of WA’s water supply history, and there are several interpretive signs and lookouts to explore. There are plenty of picnic areas to choose from too – the shady CY O’Connor Hub with BBQ facilities and plenty of grassy spots. Or how about picnicking at the base of the iconic dam wall itself? Afterwards, take a walk across the weir or visit the fascinating No.1 Pump Station (open Sunday afternoons).
If you’re looking for a spot perfect for kids, the Mundaring Community Sculpture Park is a local favourite. As well as a huge playground, BBQs and picnic tables, the park is home to several quirky sculptures dotted around the bush setting. Plus, if you’re too busy to pack a picnic, grab a takeaway from the Steep Hill Coffee van which is often located at the park (check their socials for locations).
Western Australia’s oldest national park, John Forrest National Park, is a stunning destination for a picnic. There are several picnic and BBQ areas throughout the park. Plus, you might even spot a kangaroo or two hopping around. If you’re feeling adventurous, take one of the many walking trails leading to winter waterfalls and scenic lookouts. The Little Eagle trail is a popular choice, offering panoramic views of Perth and beyond. A National Park entry fee applies.
PICNIC SPOTS IN THE KALAMUNDA REGION
Lesmurdie Falls has to be one of the most breathtaking picnic spots in the Perth Hills. The cascading waterfall over the scarp is the main attraction, especially after winter rains. The picnic area is located near the car park at the top of the falls. You may even be lucky to spot a curious quenda here. After a bite to eat, head down to the base of the Falls and back to burn off your lunch. The view is worth it!
Located in the heart of Kalamunda, Stirk Park is a leafy spot for a relaxed picnic. This park is perfect for families, with a large adventure playground, skate park, open grassed areas, and BBQ facilities. The mature trees provide ample shade, and it’s an excellent spot to kick up the crunchy falling leaves in autumn.
Somewhere you may not have visited, Victoria Dam, was WA’s first dam! The peaceful spot offers up a picnic area with BBQs and tables, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. After your picnic, take a walk near the dam or follow one of the nearby trails through the surrounding Korung National Park bushland.
Picnicking at Lions Lookout in Lesmurdie is a great way to enjoy a bite to eat with a side of sweeping views of the city skyline below. The lookout, perched on the edge of the Perth Hills, offers picnic shelters and plenty of space to spread out a blanket with friends or family. There are often food trucks found there too. If the weather takes a turn, don’t let it spoil your plans, have a cosy “car picnic” instead. Park up and enjoy your snacks while taking in the panoramic views from the comfort of your car. It’s a perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty, rain or shine.
PICNIC SPOTS IN THE ARMADALE REGION
If you’re a fan of beautifully manicured gardens, Araluen Botanic Park should be at the top of your picnicking list. The park is most famous for its stunning displays of spring tulips, but it’s a wonderful picnic and BBQ spot year-round. There are plenty of shaded areas to lay down your blanket, and the park is full of winding pathways, beautiful blooms waterfalls, and trickling streams to explore. You can even grab a coffee at the on-site café if you fancy a treat. An entrance fee applies.
Churchman Brook Reservoir is a hidden gem. The picnic area, surrounded by bushland, has modern BBQ facilities and picnic tables, grassy areas that are perfect for spreading out a blanket, plus a fun kid’s playground. From here, it’s just a short walk up to the pretty dam itself.
Sit amongst the rows fruit trees, with a picnic, at Roleystone’s Raeburn Orchards. The orchard is known for its seasonal fruit and beautiful scenery. Grab fresh produce from their packing shed shop, or a takeaway from the adjoining Coffee @ The Shed café. The orchard is a wonderful spot to relax year-round, with each season offering something different from spring blossom to the rich red autumn leaves of the Persimmon trees. A small entrance fee to the orchard applies.
If you’re after an adventure with your picnic, Settlers Common East is a great choice. The reserve is full of dog-friendly walking trails that take you through beautiful native bushland, making it a perfect spot for a post-picnic hike. Another brilliant feature of this shady spot is that it is accessible for all. There are paved paths trails for pram and wheelchair access, plus covered picnic tables with seating and roll up access are dotted along the Jeeriji and Baliff trails, accessed from Observation Circle.
PICNIC SPOTS IN THE SERPENTINE-JARRAHDALE REGION
Serpentine Dam is a popular spot for families, with a large picnic area offering BBQ facilities and short trails to the dam. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife, like kangaroos and native birds. Kids will love exploring the new adventure playground. And be sure to swing the tasty Bistro by the Dam for a takeaway coffee.
For those who love a bit of nature with their picnic, Serpentine National Park is a winner. The main draw here is the stunning Serpentine Falls. Plus, the spot is a hub for popular walks like the Kitty’s Gorge Trail. There’s a lovely picnic area near the falls with BBQs and shaded tables. Keep an eye out for the local kangaroos too, who often lounge around the picnic area. A National Park entry fee applies.
Pack your picnic and head to the Perth Hills for a tasty day out in nature. The Perth Hills are closer than you think!