Image Credit: Virat Shah at the Zig Zag
While the west coast gets the glory for its ocean-dipping suns, those in the know head east, climbing onto granite outcrops and parking up at lookouts in the Perth Hills. The view of the city skyline shimmering on the horizon, with the sun beyond, is unmatched.
Whether you’re looking for a heart-pumping hike, a quiet picnic, or a luxurious staycation, take a sunset adventure in the Perth Hills.
Trails with Dusk Views
For those who like to earn their view, the Perth Hills offer a network of tracks that turn into golden corridors as the sun dips low.
Living up to its name, John Forrest National Park’s Eagle View Trail offers a bird’s-eye view of the Swan Coastal Plain. While the full loop is a solid day’s trek, the western-facing sections are spectacular for watching the city skyline begin to twinkle. The granite outcrops along the way provide natural lookouts for a well-deserved rest. For a shorter walk, catch a beautiful sunset from National Park Falls, just off the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail.
Hidden away in Kelmscott, the Contour Channel Trail follows the path of an old water channel. It’s a relatively flat, easy-going walk through Banyowla Regional Park that hugs the side of the hill, providing unobstructed views to the west. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet sunset away from the crowds.
The network of trails at Armadale Settlers Common East winds through diverse bushland that glows in the late afternoon light. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos; they often emerge to graze just as the sun hits that perfect, golden angle. For epic views of the city skyline, head up to Charcoal Hill Lookout, Observation Circle or follow the Ngangangarra Trail to Yongah View.
Located within the Beelu National Park, Golden View Lookout lives up to its name in the evenings. This platform offers a sweeping vista over Lake C.Y. O’Connor and Mundaring Weir. It’s a peaceful spot where local tour operators Off the Beaten Track WA and The Hike Collective regularly hold guided hikes, including dusk yoga sessions.
As the highest point in the Darling Range, Mt Cooke is the ultimate “peak” experience. The hike through a bite of the Bibbulmun Track takes you over massive granite outcrops. Reaching the summit at dusk feels like standing on the spine of the world, with 360-degree views of endless forest canopy catching the fading light.
Sunset Picnic Spots & Scenic Lookouts
Often, the best way to enjoy the sunset is with a hamper in hand and a rug spread out under a tree.
Perched high above the suburban hum of the coastal plain, this Lesmurdie picnic spot offers a jaw-dropping perspective. Lions Lookout is a perfect location for budding photographers wanting to capture a stunning sunset. On a clear evening, you can see all the way to the Indian Ocean.
This iconic Gooseberry Hill drive is a rite of passage for any Perth local. Following the path of the old Upper Darling Range Railway, the Zig Zag Scenic Drive is a one-way, winding descent down the face of the scarp. Pull into one of the small gravel bays, switch off the engine, and watch the city lights flicker to life as the sky turns orange.
Even when the water isn’t flowing, the upper lookout at Lesmurdie Falls features a metal platform that juts out over the scarp, offering a front-row seat to the sun sinking directly behind the city skyscrapers.
Adrenaline, Entertainment & Sunset Stays
For those who want their sunset with a side of excitement, the Perth Hills have you covered with unique experiences.
The old quarries of the Perth Hills offer a rugged beauty. At Boya Quarry, you can join the Spacechameleon Adventure Co for a sunset abseil. There is no rush quite like leaning back over a cliff edge, the city spread out beneath you. Nearby, Statham’s Quarry (accessed via the Zig Zag) provides a beautiful backdrop by the big blue tree.
Carved into the side of the Perth Hills, the world-class Red Hill Auditorium amphitheatre offers a panoramic view of the Swan Coastal Plain. Watching a legendary band take the stage as the sky turns red is a sensory double-whammy you won’t forget.
If your sunset needs a crisp glass of local cider and a plate of something scrumptious, the sunset garden at Seven Sins is your go to. It’s designed for lingering, offering a bush view vantage point that’s quite literally right on the edge of Roleystone.
Why walk when you can ride? The Jarrahdale Equestrian Centre offers sunset rides that are perfect for a group of friends. Clip-clop along bush tracks on horseback, the scent of the bushland at dusk create a meditative atmosphere that ends with a beautiful sunset view from the saddle.
For a sunset with a side of adrenaline, the Goat Farm Mountain Bike Park is the place to be. The scarp-edge position of this Greenmount spot brings a panoramic city view, where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon as the afternoon dust kicks up from the trails.
At Jarrahview Lodge, the sunset is the main event every single night. This stylish stay-cay spot in Jarrahdale is perched to take full advantage of the elevation, with wide decks and an infinity pool perfect for a sunset toast.
Our tips for enjoying a Perth Hills sunset:
Image Credit: ZigZag
- Arrive early so you can enjoy golden hour before the sunset show.
- Clear skies are best, but sometime clouds add to the dramatic colours.
- Pack essentials, including bug spray.
- Have an exit plan – don’t get lost in the dark without a head torch!
There are so many ways to enjoy your day in the Perth Hills – be sure to end it with a stunning sunset view.