Lace up for a long weekend of wonder at the inaugural Perth Hills WanderFest from September 26 to 29.
A travelling trails series in Gidgegannup, Kalamunda, Chidlow, Bedfordale, and Jarrahdale, WanderFest encourages hikers of all abilities to hit the trails to experience the beauty of the Perth Hills in spring.
Step into landscapes rich in history and overflowing with breathtaking views. Spot wildflowers and waterfalls, quendas rustling in the undergrowth, and Carnaby’s black cockatoos soaring overhead, in a magical afternoon out in nature.
Hikes tailored for beginners, youth, seniors, accessibility needs, and advanced will be delivered in collaboration with award-winning local tour operators – The Hike Collective and Off the Beaten Track WA – who specialise in creating safe, engaging, and memorable guided walks.
Sonja Mitchell, Destination Perth CEO, said WanderFest offered the perfect chance for locals and visitors alike to get a taste of hiking in the stunning Perth Hills.
“It’s a fantastic way to showcase the beauty and diversity of the region’s world-class trails,” she said.
“We hope hikers will make a day of it by exploring some of the unique pubs, cafes, wineries, and retailers that give the area character.”
Barbara Hugill, Perth Hills Tourism Alliance Chairperson, said WanderFest marked an exciting new chapter for local tourism.
“WanderFest is a celebration of nature, wellness, and community that brings the whole Perth Hills together,” she said. “This collaborative event showcases the trails, landscapes, and local businesses that make our region so special. It’s a powerful example of what’s possible when passionate tourism partners unite behind a shared vision.”
A series of WanderFest satellite activities will encourage visitors to linger longer in the Perth Hills. Rest your weary legs with a night or two at a local retreat, fuel up for your hike with a pub meal, or shop for fresh produce at the local markets and orchards.
A new downloadable guide to ensure visitors can return to safely explore the trails at their leisure will be available from October 1.Hike tickets are $30 and go on sale on July 1 from the WanderFest website.
The hikes:
Beginners: F.R. Berry Reserve, Gidgegannup, City of Swan
Designed for beginners and first-time hikers, this is an easy-going 3km loop walk through one of the most underrated pockets of wilderness. Wind your way through jarrah, marri, and wandoo woodlands, skirting granite outcrops dusted with wildflowers in spring. At the waterfall lookout, take a moment to soak it all in.
Youth focused: Piesse Brook, Kalamunda, City of Kalamunda
Swap screens for scenery, journeying through towering forests, granite outcrops, and winding creeks, all leading to the iconic Rocky Pool. The 3.4km return trail follows Piesse Brook, a lifeline for native wildlife including splendid fairy wrens. This one is perfect for families, with scavenger hunt sheets provided.
Seniors-focused: Armadale Settlers Common, Bedfordale, City of Armadale
The gentle 5km loop trail, nestled in the foothills of the Darling Scarp, offers a relaxed hiking experience. Explore the rich biodiversity of Settlers Common, where towering jarrah and marri trees provide shelter for a symphony of birdlife. Keep an eye out for bursts of wildflowers and grazing kangaroos.
Experienced: Kitty’s Gorge, Jarrahdale, Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale
An advanced 16km return trail in Serpentine National Park, this one is for those ready to push their limits, tackling rugged terrain, steep climbs, and long stretches of uninterrupted wilderness, all leading to the breathtaking Serpentine Falls. Your legs will feel the burn, but the views make every step worth it.
Accessible: Lake Leschenaultia, Chidlow, Shire of Mundaring
This low impact 3km trail is stunning and sensory-rich; the perfect way to connect with nature, spot wildlife and build confidence in a small group. The path is mostly flat and has benches to rest along the way, making it suitable for wheelchairs, prams or walking aids. Support workers and carers can attend free of charge.
Visit the website PERTH HILLS WANDERFEST.
