October brings the promise of warmer days ahead. While the wildflowers are still blooming, it’s a perfect time to explore the Perth Hills – especially as hiking season has one last surprise in store for us. From an iconic arts event going bigger than ever, to a debut music festival, a new way to walk on Country, a new family farmers market and a rare opportunity to step back into a beloved sanctuary, there are plenty of reasons to head for the Perth Hills this October.
MUNDARING
The Mundaring Hills Open Studios is back, and this year it’s bigger and bolder than ever. Over 85 artists are flinging open their studio doors from 17 to 25 October, with creative spaces stretching from Swan View all the way to Chidlow to explore over nine spring days. Many artists are new to the event this year, so expect fresh faces, fresh work and plenty of stories behind the making of it all. New for 2026, Art Trail Bus Tours depart from Elizabeth Quay for just $10 per person – the perfect excuse to leave the car behind and let someone else navigate the gallery hop. Find out more.
KALAMUNDA
Something a little special is making its debut in Kalamunda this 3-4 October – the inaugural Arboria Chamber Music Festival, a boutique two-day celebration of classical music, opera, folk and family arts. Arboria (meaning ‘of the trees’) is a love letter to life up here in the hills, bringing together talented performers including the Darlington Quartet, Australian Baroque, soprano Emma Matthews and The Chimera Ensemble across the Zig Zag Gallery, the Kalamunda Community Centre and more. There are dedicated family events too, making it one for all ages. Round out your festival weekend with artisan markets, local hospitality and a wander around Kalamunda town – this one has all the ingredients for a very good Perth Hills day out. Find out more.
ARMADALE
October is the perfect time to delve deeper into Perth Hills Armadale. The Six Seasons Trails invite walkers to explore the landscape through the lens of the Whadjuk Noongar calendar – six seasons that tell a rich story of Country. October falls in Kambarang, the season of renewal and rebirth, when wildflowers are putting on their finest show. The Honeyeater Trail at Bungendore Park, winds through Jarrah-Marri forest in a place whose name beautifully translates to ‘place of the gum blossom’. Guided hikes are available through The Hike Collective (10 & 24 October), with optional cultural experiences in partnership with Beelya Cultural Tours. Find out more.
SERPENTINE JARRAHDALE
Little Farm has recently opened in Byford, and the nature-based early learning centre is holding its first farmers market on 18 October. The new spot is opening its gates for a fresh-air family morning with Spring on the Farm, 10am to 2pm. It promises to be filled with local market stalls, an animal farm, face painting, kids’ activities, food vendors and good coffee – it has all the makings of a brilliant spring morning out. Best of all, entry is free. Grab your Eventbrite ticket before you head off. Find out more. Find out more.
GIDGEGANNUP
In great news for trail lovers – Gidgegannup’s beloved Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary has partially reopened after more than a year of trail restoration following significant storm damage. The 2.3km Possum Loop is now taking bookings, giving you a rare and welcome window to be back in one of the Perth Hills’ most magical wild places. At just $11 per person, it’s a small price to pay for a beautiful morning in the bush and all funds go towards Australian Wildlife Conservancy’s vital conservation work. Don’t sleep on this, the season closes on 1 November. Please note the Quenda Circuit and Numbat Trail remain closed while critical repair work continues. Book ahead to secure your spot. Find out more.
Be sure to enjoy something new in the Perth Hills this month – they’re closer than you think!