Active August is the perfect opportunity to discover some of Perth’s best walking trails and parks. From family-friendly bushland walks to scenic riverside paths and longer hikes, there’s something to suit every fitness level and mood, writes NATALIE ESCOBAR. 

Perth is known for its beautiful scenery, unique wildlife and amazing beaches – and exploring them has many benefits to your health, too. Whether you choose a gentle stroll, a family-friendly walk or a more challenging hike, every step counts. This Active August, take the opportunity to discover a new trail, enjoy the outdoors and support your physical and mental wellbeing.  

Even a short walk after meals can lower blood glucose levels, and being active outdoors supports your mental health by reducing stress, lifting your mood and promoting good sleep. Walking can help prevent or manage conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and some cancers. And recent research from the University of New South Wales suggests that living in neighbourhoods with more tree canopy may help support mental wellbeing by encouraging people to spend more time outdoors and stay physically active. 

Ready to get active? Here are 7 beautiful places around Perth to get some green time.

1. Best for city views and Perth scenery – Lotterywest Federation Walkway (Kings Park) 

Kings Park is renowned for its native bushland, wildlife and spectacular views of Perth’s skyline and the Swan River. It’s a local favourite and one of the world’s largest and most beautiful city parks, with a rich cultural history. There are trails for all fitness levels, so whether you’re just starting out or already love walking, you’ll find a path that works for you. 

A highlight is the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, a 620-metre elevated path, where you can walk among the treetops in the WA Botanic Garden. From the glass and steel bridge, you get stunning views of the Perth skyline. The walk takes about 40 minutes for a round trip.

2. Best for families and nature play – Baldivis Children’s Forest Trail

Tucked away in Baldivis, the Children’s Forest is ideal for families who want to get active and enjoy a sensory experience. There are easy walking trails through tuart woodland and wetlands, with lots of chances to see wildlife, and it takes less than an hour to complete. Picnic spots, BBQs, and open spaces make it a great place to spend time outdoors.

3. Best for an easy lakeside loop – Galup (Lake Monger Reserve) 

If you want a short trail in the city, Galup is a simple 3.5km loop with views of the Perth skyline. It’s well suited to beginners, and the flat circuit usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll see some beautiful wildlife along the way, including black swans, Carnaby’s black cockatoos, rainbow lorikeets, pelicans and cormorants.

4. Best for exploring Perth’s bushland – John Forrest National Park

Whether you want a short walk in nature or a longer adventure, John Forrest National Park has a walking trail for you. As one of Western Australia’s oldest national parks, it has bushland scenery, seasonal waterfalls, lots of wildlife, including kangaroos and wallabies, and the Swan View railway tunnel to walk through. With a variety of walks to choose from, you can experience the park’s natural beauty at your own pace. 

5. Best for riverside views and iconic Perth landmarks – Swan River Loop

The Swan River Loop is a classic Perth walk that takes you past city landmarks including Elizabeth Quay, Barrack Street Jetty, Riverside Drive and the South Perth Foreshore. This 10km walking trail is dog-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend along. When you cross the Causeway Bridges, you might want to take a detour to Heirisson Island to see the statue of Yagan and maybe even spot a kangaroo.

6. Best for those looking for a challenge – Rocky Pool Walk, Kalamunda

If you want to challenge yourself, the Rocky Pool Walk is an excellent choice. Located in Kalamunda National Park, the 5.1km loop is one of Perth’s most iconic and difficult trails. While there are some steep sections, the reward is reaching Rocky Pool, where you can take a dip if conditions are right or just relax and enjoy the peaceful setting.

7. Best for birdwatching – Herdsman Lake

If you want to spot some native birdlife, including swans, pelicans, musk ducks and even owls, Herdsman Lake is an 8km trail with open parklands, flooded gum woodlands, paperbark forest and a wildlife centre with a café. Popular with wildlife photographers, there are two wooden shelters on its northern end designed to let you see birds up close. 

Are you living with diabetes and want to get more active?

We can support you with our education programs, including DESMOND (Diabetes Education and Self Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed) and Living Well with Diabetes.

We also have diabetes educators and exercise physiologists here who can share resources and answer any questions you may have around exercising – call our Helpline on 1300 001 880 today or book an appointment at our clinic.

Looking for more places to discover around our vast state? Trails WA is a fantastic resource that lets you search for trails by region and experience.