John Forrest National Park is one of those Perth Hills spots that never gets old. It is Perth’s first national park and, only around 30 minutes from the CBD, it’s a brilliant choice for a picnic, a gentle stroll, a longer bushwalk or simply a breath of fresh air among the tall gums.
The park has had some welcome improvements in recent years, including the new Jane Brook elevated walkway. This 250-metre walkway is a lovely addition, taking visitors up closer to the tree canopy and offering a different view of the bushland. A gently zig-zagging ramp leads up to it from the eastern, older car park, making it suitable for wheelchairs, mobility aids and prams. There are benches along the way too, which are perfect for a little rest and a chance to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
The main picnic area is accessed from Park Road, off Great Eastern Highway. Here you’ll find plenty of tables, barbecues, toilets and accessible facilities, as well as lovely spots beside Jane Brook. Keep your eyes peeled for western grey kangaroos, particularly early in the morning or later in the afternoon. They are often seen grazing around the picnic areas.
For an easy wander, the Jane Brook Promenade is a 300-metre paved loop near the nature play area. It is ideal for anyone wanting a short, relatively level walk without committing to a major hike. Be sure to stop by the historic “Fairy houses”.
More energetic walkers are spoilt for choice. The Glen Brook Walk, National Park Falls Walk, Wildflower Walk, Eagle View Walk and Railway Reserves Heritage Trail all pass through or begin near the park. The old railway route is especially interesting, with its heritage bridges, former station remnants and the atmospheric Swan View Tunnel.
The waterfalls are seasonal, so winter and spring are generally the best times to visit after decent rainfall. National Park Falls and Hovea Falls can both be spectacular when flowing, though the rocky terrain means sensible shoes are essential. There are three Park Road entrances, which can be a little confusing. The western car park is useful if you want easy access to the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail, while the main picnic area is best reached via the second Park Road turn-off.
Dogs are not permitted in the national park. Entry fees apply per vehicle, though visitors with a valid park pass can use that instead. Whether you like a gentle picnic and slow stroll or pull on the hiking boots for a longer trail, John Forrest National Park is a beautiful Perth Hills classic.
Find John Forrest National Park at Park Road, Hovea.
