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8 Best Waterfalls Near Perth So Stunning, They’re Worth the Hike
Early spring and late winter are prime waterfall seasons in Perth. There are many nearby falls worth visiting during these times, like Lesmurdie Falls and Bells Rapid. Both are within an hour’s drive from the CBD, and both are suited for Insta-worthy shots, scenic bushwalking, and idyllic picnics.
The crisp air, soothing echoes, and sight of crystalline water pooling over mossy rocks are more than worth the gas. If you want to enjoy them, we’ll fill you in on the important details, or you might end up with a headache and not a breather.
John Forrest National Park
Address: Park Rd, Hovea
Contact Details: +61 8 9290 6100
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Distance from the Perth CBD: 34 mins
Website
John Forrest National Park in the Darling Ranges turns into an absolute stunner come winter or spring, especially after heavy rain. Two waterfalls put on a show here—Hovea Falls and National Park Falls. Both can be reached through moderate bush trails.
The first one, Hovea Falls, spills over a massive slab of granite. To make it, we always hit the mild 1.9 km Hovea Falls Walk, which kicks off from the park and traces the Heritage Trail.
Then there’s National Park Falls, which takes a dramatic dive off a 20-metre cliff. Getting there means a solid 2.5-km trek, but you’ll cop some jaw-dropping sights along the way, from the Railway Reserve to the Heritage Trail.
Tip: Some areas are steep and slippery. We usually tackle this problem with hiking shoes that offer great traction and ankle support.
Serpentine National Park
From the_southwest_hiker
Address: 100 Falls Rd, Serpentine
Contact Details: +61 8 9525 2128
Operating Hours: Daily – 8:30 am to 5 pm
Distance from the Perth CBD: 51 mins
Website
Serpentine National Park easily ranks as one of Perth’s most picnic-worthy locations. The falls spilling down the granite wall attract picnic-goers no matter the season, though winter is when it truly becomes a spectacle.
Swimming is allowed too, but climbing the rocks and diving from them aren’t. The depth also shifts quickly, so only confident swimmers should wade in, and never go solo!
Beyond the cool waters and picturesque granites, the Darling Scarp puts on a wildlife showcase here. In fact, during our most recent trip, we spotted heaps of red-capped parrots and yellow robins mid-picnic!
Tip: Warmer months can get super crowded, so make sure to arrive before 10 am. Newcomers won’t be welcomed once the park reaches maximum capacity.
Noble Falls
From zahra_doris
Address: 2621 Toodyay Rd, Gidgegannup
Distance from the Perth CBD: 46 mins
Website
Noble Falls is our go-to when the little tackers want a quiet picnic spot with trails that won’t have them whingeing 5 minutes in. Sure, it’s not Perth’s biggest, but its kid-friendliness and abundance of water, even after a drizzle, are more than enough.
Better yet, the trail along Wooroloo Brook allows dogs and is well-marked, starting from the Noble Falls Car Park. It was even better on our last stroll when the 3.5-km trail was lined with hakeas, grevilleas, and all sorts of wildflowers.
The main event, of course, was Noble Falls itself. Wrapped in jarrah and marri bushland, with rugged rock formations and a steady bubble of water, it was Instagrammable and zen-inducing.
Tip: If you want to avoid the hassle of packing your own food, swing by Noble Falls Tavern. Their hearty, homestyle pub fare is perfect for fueling up.
Sixty Foot Falls
From ringofearn
Address: Martin
Operating Hours: Daily – 6 am to 7 pm
Distance from the Perth CBD: 29 mins
Website
Sixty Foot Falls was a walk that even our kids didn’t moan about, and that alone makes it a must-visit in our books. Yeah, there were a few steep ascents and some rocky sections to be extra wary of, but overall, it was easier compared to other names here.
That doesn’t mean there was no reward at the end of the 2.1-km trail. Sixty Foot Falls lived up to its name, plunging from—you guessed it—sixty feet and framed by granite cliffs and a man-made lake.
The cherry on top was the view of Perth peeking through the valley. Fairy-wren and cockatoo sightings made it delightful too.
Tip: Bring a water bottle. There are no shops around.
Rocky Pool Circuit Walk
From laurajanehahn
Address: Kalamunda
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Distance from the Perth CBD: 31 mins
Website
The Rocky Pool Circuit Walk clocks in at roughly 5 km and flaunts a natural swimming hole, complete with short but picturesque cascades. It’s not exactly a Sunday stroll, though, so expect tough slopes and shifting gravel.
Still, it’s hard to resist having a walk, picnic, and dip here. That’s especially true in winter and spring when both the water and wildflowers, like everlastings and Dampier peas, are in full glory.
Wildlife buffs will have a field day as well. If you’re lucky, you might just bump into kangaroos or even scope out a few quendas.
Tips:
- Don’t forget to check the Kalamunda weather forecast. The heat can get intense here.
- If you think the path is too risky, making a beeline to the Rocky Pool parking area is the move. It’s closer to the pool, and the path is way easier.
Mundy Regional Park
From scotty_rockstar
Address: Kalamunda Rd, Forrestfield
Contact Details: +61 8 9442 0300
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Distance from the Perth CBD: 22 mins
Website
Ask anyone on our team, and most will tell you Lesmurdie Falls is Perth Hills’ prettiest waterfall. Towering at 50 m, it’s a sight to behold, whether you’re atop the metal platforms or unwinding in the picnic area.
For us, though, it’s hard to beat the lookout platform, flaunting Swan Coastal Plain and Perth panoramas. The area even gives the best vantage point of Lesmurdie Brook rushing a whopping 40 m down the rocks.
Just remember never to wander off the unmarked paths. The cliffs are unstable, so if you see a colourful orchid or rare bird perched on an off-trail area, admire it from a distance.
Tip: Dogs are allowed, but don’t forget to leash them.
Bells Rapids Park
From dpus118
Address: Orlov Trail, Cathedral Ave, Brigadoon
Contact Details: +61 8 9267 9267
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Distance from the Perth CBD: 39 mins
Website
Bells Rapids is best known for the Avon Descent White Water Race, but even when the adrenaline junkies aren’t about, it’s still a knockout spot.
It boasts waterfalls, streams, and the Avon River all coming together, with moderate, dog-friendly trails around. Our bushwalkers’ picks include the 3.4-km Bells Rapids Goat Trail and the 7.4-km Bells Rapids Loop, all winding through the flooded gum-lined area.
July to August is when this spot really takes off, but it’s a sensational picnic spot year-round. The greenery stays lush, kangaroos stop by, and while you can’t take a dip for safety reasons, the walk bridge gets you closer to the turbulent rapids.
Tip: Weekends and public holidays are when the park gets jam-packed. Avoid these periods if you want a more tranquil visit.
Bicentennial Falls
From sharpone9164
Address: Merv Cowan Park, Riverside Rd, East Fremantle
Distance from the Perth CBD: 22 mins
Bicentennial Falls in Freo is the answer for those craving a nature escapade but not too keen on driving for about or more than 30 minutes out of Perth. And don’t worry, the falls is still breathtaking despite its proximity to the CBD.
We’re talking about a near-15-metre cascade that spills over a limestone cliff, offering a chilled-out retreat with grassy picnic spots. To top it off, it has a playground to keep your mini-mes pumped.
No need for hardcore hiking boots either. The 1.2-km Niergarup Track is smooth sailing, with signposts making sure you don’t make a wrong turn. Even the lead-up to the falls is picturesque, with the Swan River stretching out and dotted with boats or pelicans.
Tip: The best time to visit is at sunset. With just a few short trees and homes on the horizon, the golden hour here is true.
