If you’re craving tall trees, bird song and that eucalyptus-scented air, Wellington National Park is a beautiful day out in the bush.
Just outside Collie, the park wraps around the Collie River with walking trails that range from easy, shady wanders to longer, more energetic hikes. You can follow the river’s bends, pause on ancient granite outcrops to watch the river flow by and soak up the sounds of birds flying through the jarrah and marri forest. Wellington National Park is the kind of place that settles the mind – particularly if you visit mid-week.
Pack a picnic and make a beeline for Honeymoon Pool. The water here looks so inviting, even on a soggy winter’s day. Platforms and steps make access simple if you fancy a toe-dip.
It’s one of those classic WA picnic spots: towering trees for shade, the gentle rush of the river, and plenty of space to sit and enjoy the surrounds. Keep your eyes peeled for blue fairy wrens too.
There are lots of picnic tables and benches, and BBQs. Plus, you can even camp there, but it can be very popular in warmer months.
We headed to Wellington Dam for the grand views across the valley, then looped back to the river trails for a gentle stroll.
We parked up just south of Honeymoon Pool and headed off on the Jabitj Trail – which runs 12km (return) between Honeymoon Pool and Wellington Dam. The signage is clear, which helps if you want to keep to shorter options.
We just walked a couple of kms, to the “Little Rock” cascades and back.
Bring water, sun protection and sturdy walking shoes – we didn’t go too far and only encountered fairly flat even trails, but you never know. Good to know: mobile reception can be patchy. There are a few facilities, like long drop toilets, along the way.
Start with a walk, linger over lunch by the water, then take a wander by the dam. The Ferguson Valley is just on the doorstep, if you’d rather lunch at a winery or brewery. Wellington National Park is simple, refreshing, and so wonderfully WA.
