Any resident of Western Australia would surely be aware that John Forrest National Park is the oldest National Park in this part of the country. Named after the well-known explorer and the first Premier of Western Australia, Sir John Forrest, the National Park was proclaimed as a National park in 1900.
If you love to look at nature and enjoy the company of wildlife, you would be thrilled to know that the rest of the park has a splendid collection of flora and fauna. Apart from that, John Forrest National Park visitors can go on Bushwalking Trails, Mountain bike riding, or watch western grey kangaroos at the picnic area.
All families love to spend their time in a fantastic outdoor activity, and the best way would be to spend the day going through the several walk trail options available at all parts of the John Forrest National Park. There are plenty of activities to indulge in with friends and families here at the John Forrest National Park. You will find the visitor area complete with barbecue facilities and a picnic area that would be loved by everyone.
The most exciting trail would be the Railway Reserve Heritage Trail which will follow along the old line to York. Many beautiful spots can be viewed from the Perth and Swan Coast Plain. Most importantly, the lovely lookout point on the Park Road scenic drive would offer visitors outstanding views of the National Park.
5 Incredible Things to Do in John Forrest National Park
1. Have a Family Fun Outing at the John Forrest Picnic Area
While the entire John Forrest National Park is filled with beautiful plants and trees, the main picnic area is for those who want to enjoy a family get-together. Once you reach the John Forrest National Park, you must follow the signs leading to the picnic area. All families will be thrilled to see the abundance of lovely picnic spots with BBQs and tables.
If you are in for another adventure, you can walk down to Jane Brook Dam. Here, you can find a place at the water’s edge or take shelter in one of the rustic wooden huts. So, if you ever feel apprehensive about heading out due to excessive heat or a little rain, you can remember the John Forrest National Park has access to these lovely huts to give you a safe atmosphere.
2. Visit the Breath-taking National Park Falls
There are many interesting things to do in Perth. It is known for its magnificent waterfalls, and every John Forrest National park visitor would love to view the stunning National Park Falls that drop sharply over 20m of a sheer rock face.
Please remember to head to the waterfalls in winter or spring as there will be more rainfall during this period. Usually, many use the old railway reserves heritage trail to reach the National park falls. Since the old railway tunnel is dark and filled with stones, it is better to carry a flashlight. You will reach the National Park falls at the tunnel’s end through the small wooden bridge.
The bridge will take you over top rocks, and once you reach the bottom of the bridge, you will find a viewing platform. It will be filled with red rock and a smooth flowing stream. During peak seasons, the National Park Falls are a beautiful sight as the water cascades over the granite rock.
3. Take a Spine-Chilling Walk Inside the Swan View Tunnel
The Swan View Tunnel is a historic structure built in the year 1894. The designer and architect, CY O’Connor, needed over 300 workers to complete its construction. The operation took over a year and was extremely dangerous as the workers had only picks, shovels, and dynamite to finish the task.
The Swan View Tunnel stretches around 340m long, a significant engineering marvel of its time. Although a stunning and eerie place surrounded by history, the Swan View Tunnel is an adventurous hiking destination. The views around the tunnel are magnificent, and hikers would love to be a part of the beauty of nature.
4. Experience the Stunning Hovea Falls
Hovea Falls is found right after National Park Falls and is just along the limestone gravel track. There are several ways to reach Hovea Falls. One is not to use the Swan View Tunnel but to continue on Victoria Road. This road is called a no-through road, and you need to park on the side of the road.
You can then take the path reaching Hovea Falls, about 500 meters. Visitors generally use the bridge viewing platform to get a good view of the waterfalls. Hovea Falls is dry in the months of summer. However, during October, waterfalls are not overflowing; visitors use the rocks as stepping stones to explore the area.
5. Challenge Yourself at the John Forrest National Park Trails
The best hiking trails in Perth Hills can be found at John Forrest National Park. Most hiking trails are excellent, and your family would love the adventure. Each path invites visitors to discover the thrill of exploration and the satisfaction of conquering nature’s challenges, from the soaring heights of the Eagle View trail to the gentle paths of the Christmas Tree Creek trail.
Get started on the road where every step is a testament to the harmony between the ancient heritage of our land and the resilient spirit of adventure that defines John Forrest National Park. Moreover, nature lovers enjoy and post most of their reviews and photos of the tracks on social media.
(a) Railway Heritage Trail
The Railway Heritage Trail is a long hiking trail that stretches for 41 km. This extensive trail follows the old Eastern Railway route. The Trail passes through Darlington, Parkerville, and Mundaring. The scenic views of the quaint hills and many significant points of railway history are some of the reasons for you to go on this Trail.
So many take up backpacking, camping, and hiking on the Railway Heritage Trail. For history enthusiasts, the Railway Heritage Trail is a living museum, where rusted tracks and historic artifacts coexist with the vibrant flora and fauna of the national park.
Combining nature and history gives visitors a unique and immersive experience, allowing them to take in all that the natural beauty of John Forrest National Park offers as well as the technical achievements of our past. This trail offers a fascinating journey through Western Australia’s railway history, regardless of whether you are an expert in the railways or just want to be curious about tales that emerge from the landscape.
(b) John Forrest Bridle Trail
The John Forrest Bridle Trail is moderately challenging. This loop trail takes about 4 hours and 58 minutes and is one of the top-rated hiking trails in Western Australia. Many love this Trail for horseback riding, mountain biking, or simply sitting around and enjoying the solitude.
Not only does the John Forrest Bridle Path offer a wonderful riding experience, but it is also an entrance point into this park where numerous wildlife are found. During the journey, riders will encounter native birds, kangaroos, and other unique animals, enhancing the immersive nature of the journey. With well-maintained paths and breathtaking vistas, the Bridle Trail is a haven for horse enthusiasts seeking an escape into the serene beauty of Western Australia’s wilderness.
(c) Eagle View Walk Trail
The Eagle View Trail is a 15.0 km loop trail. It is very close to Western Australia’s Hovea. The difficulty level of Eagle View Trail is moderate and generally takes about 4 hours and 5 minutes. It is one of John Forrest National Park’s most popular walking trails.
Many visitors love to visit when it is quiet to enjoy the solitude and to breathe in the beauty of the National Park which is open all year round. However, you must note that dogs are not allowed on Eagle View Walk Trail.
The trail takes a journey of Jarrah and Mara forests, which create the impression that one is immersed in Western Australia’s natural wonders. The charm of the journey is supplemented by a diversity in flora and fauna that makes each step an adventure. Hiking the Eagle View Walk Trail is not merely a physical exercise; it’s an exploration of the park’s ecological richness and communion with the untamed beauty of the Australian wilderness.
(d) Christmas Tree Creek Walk Trail
Although not as difficult as the Eagle View Trail, the Christmas Tree Creek Walk Trail is not short of views or challenging climbs. It is a shorter version, no doubt, but to complete an 11 km walk surrounded by creeks, wildflowers, and kangaroos is nothing but an adventure of the highest level. It is extremely crucial to remember to expect steep inclines during the hike. Sometimes the surface can be loose or slippery. One is expected to be fit, carry plenty of water, and wear good walking shoes.
Nature lovers are invited to explore the diversity of plants and animals in the park through Christmas Tree Creek’s walking trail. Look out for native birdlife, as well as unique plant species that thrive in this calm environment. Interpretation signs along the road will give an insight into the ecological importance of the area and provide more detailed information about the delicate balance between ecosystems in the park.
The Christmas Tree Creek trail walk invites with its understated charm and promise of a gentle, nature-filled experience in the heart of Western Australia’s natural wonders, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure, a romantic stroll, or a solo nature retreat.
(e) Wildflower Walk Trail
As the name suggests, the Wildflower Walk Trail is a walking trail lined with wildflowers. The Trail is usually enjoyed during the wildflower blooming season. Most hikers take extra time to enjoy the wildflowers on the way. You would be thrilled to know that Hovea Falls can be seen at the Trail’s end.
This place offers valuable insight into the unique features and ecological significance of individual wildflowers as you walk along this path. The trail is not only a feast to look at, but it’s also an educational journey for visitors who can broaden their appreciation of the wonderful flora that grows in this part of Australia.
The Wildflower Walk Trail invites photographers, botanists, and anyone with an appreciation for nature to witness the transient beauty of the wildflowers in full bloom. What makes John Forrest National Park a haven of biodiversity is its sensory experience which captures the essence of changes in seasons and complex ecosystems.
A Final Note
John Forrest National Park remains the favorite of those who thoroughly appreciate being part of nature and enjoying its beauty and magnificence. Due to its convenient location near the Darling Scarp of Western Australia, many believe it is easily accessible.
With its diverse trails and a rich heritage of experience, John Forrest National Park invites all comers to be part of the stewarding of this unique ecosystem. This park is a permanent invitation to connect with the essence of the land, whether you seek adventure, solace, or education in Australia’s ecological wonders.
It’s more than a destination; it is an alive landscape, ever-evolving and fascinating to explore. So when you need to spend quality time with yourself or your family amidst nature or wildlife, remember John Forrest National Park is the right place to be delighted.
Last Updated on December 29, 2023 by ritukhare
