Herdsman Lake Regional Park: A Free Wetland Escape for Birdwatchers, Walkers and Cyclists in Perth

Just a few minutes from the city bustle, there is a place where black swans glide past the paperbarks, wrens flit through the rushes and the only traffic jam is a line of ducks crossing the path. Herdsman Lake Regional Park is one of Perth’s best-kept secrets for anyone who loves gentle exercise, wildlife and a good picnic spot. Best of all, it costs nothing to visit.

If you are looking for an easy day out that suits every pace, from a leisurely stroll to a full lap on two wheels, here is what you need to know before you go.

A Wetland Oasis in the Heart of the City

Herdsman Lake Regional Park is a wetland tucked right into Perth’s suburbs, which makes it a rare find. The landscape stays green and diverse all year round, and that is exactly why the wildlife loves it. Waterbirds and migratory birds come here to breed and to enjoy a summer refuge, wading among the rushes, paperbarks and flooded gums.

More than 100 species of birds have been recorded here, and some have travelled from the other side of the world to be here. It is easy to see why birdwatchers and photographers flock to the park. Even if you could not tell a swamp harrier from a sparrow, you will find yourself slowing down and looking more closely.

The park is also part of a living cultural landscape. We acknowledge the Whadjuk people as the Traditional Owners of Herdsman Lake Regional Park, and the Noongar and Yellagonga Aboriginal people have long used this area as a source of food.

First Impressions

The beauty of Herdsman Lake is that there is no single grand entrance. Instead, you choose your own way in. Pull up at Glendalough and you will find open grassed areas, park benches, playground equipment and two gazebos, a lovely spot to set out a picnic rug. Park along Moondine Drive and you can wander onto walk trails and shared paths that wind through open grass and scattered mature trees.

The atmosphere is peaceful and unhurried. Paperbarks line the water’s edge, reeds rustle in the breeze and there is a sense of space that you do not expect so close to the city. Come with your camera ready, because the birdlife tends to appear when you least expect it.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a wild wetland, not a manicured garden. Facilities are simple and the setting is natural, which is a big part of its charm.

What to Expect

Walking and Cycling Around the Lake

A shared pathway goes all the way around the lake, so you can walk or cycle the complete loop or simply enjoy a section of it. The full circuit is around 7 to 8 kilometres, which makes it a great goal for a morning walk if you are fit and keen, and just as enjoyable in short sections if you prefer to take it slowly with plenty of bench stops.

The Herdsman Loop and Olive Seymour Boardwalk is an eight kilometre urban walk and is described as one of the best birdwatching areas not far from Perth city. Take a detour onto the impressive Olive Seymour Boardwalk to add some variety to your circuit.

If you want a bigger challenge, the Yange Kep Bidi (meaning Wetland Trail) is a 21.2 kilometre bird lovers’ trail that begins at Freshwater Bay on the Swan River foreshore and links remnant bushland and significant wetlands, including Perry Lakes, Lake Monger and Herdsman Lake. You do not need to tackle it all at once, but it is a lovely way to explore Perth’s wetland chain.

Birdwatching

This is the main event. Black swans are the stars, but look out for the smaller treasures as well. One visitor review mentions everything from elegant black swans to petite splendid wrens, with swamp harriers watching from above. Several bird hides can be reached from Jon Sanders Drive, giving you a quiet place to sit and watch without disturbing the wildlife.

Pathways also link through to Popeye Lake, one of four inner wetlands in the park, where a floating jetty with an observation deck gives you a close look at the water.

Picnics and Relaxing

With grassed areas, benches, gazebos and playgrounds, the park is ideal for a relaxed picnic. Glendalough is a good choice if you are bringing grandchildren, while Moondine Drive suits those who prefer open lawn and shade from mature trees. Pack a thermos, a good book and your binoculars and you have the makings of a perfect afternoon.

Heritage and Learning

The Herdsman Lake Settlers Cottage is heritage listed and offers a glimpse of what life was like for early settlers in the area. The Herdsman Lake Discovery Centre sits right on the edge of the lake and gives the community a chance to engage with the research being carried out there. The Wildlife Centre runs events, talks and night walks, so it is worth checking what is on before you visit.

Fun for the Grandkids

If the grandchildren are visiting, Nature Play WA has a free Play Trails app (iPhone and Android) with a scavenger hunt at Herdsman Lake. It is a fun way to explore the walk trails, historic buildings, artworks, playgrounds and environment. The Every Kid in a Park project also provides free resources, including an app and an activity booklet, to help families of children of all abilities enjoy local parks.

Good to Know Before You Go

Wildlife comes first. To protect the birds and other animals, small boats, kayaks, canoes, stand up paddle boards and any other watercraft are not permitted on the lake at any time. Fishing is not permitted either.

Pets are welcome, with conditions. Dogs must be under control and on a leash at all times, and pets are not permitted at the Herdsman Lake Discovery Centre.

Watch for snakes. One visitor review notes that the western tiger snake is often more visible on sunny winter days when it is trying to soak up some warmth. Stay on the paths, wear closed shoes and keep an eye on where you step.

Be prepared. The park’s safety advice is to plan your visit, and to consider carrying a personal location beacon if you are heading out on longer walks. Take water, a hat, sunscreen and a phone, especially in summer.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Herdsman Lake Regional Park is a rare opportunity to experience genuine wetland wildlife without leaving the city. It is free, it is flexible and it suits almost any fitness level, from a short stroll along the boardwalk to a full lap by bike. For active over-55s, it ticks plenty of boxes: gentle exercise, nature, photography, family-friendly facilities and enough heritage and history to keep curious minds engaged.

My tip is to go early in the morning or in the late afternoon, when the light is soft and the birds are at their most active. Bring a friend, pack a picnic and take your time.

Plan Your Visit

Herdsman Lake Regional Park is at 171 Jon Sanders Drive, Herdsman. For more information, call Regional Parks on (08) 9442 0300 or visit the Explore Parks WA website.

Have you walked or cycled around Herdsman Lake? Tell us about your favourite spot, or the best bird you have seen, in the comments below.