Step into the 10 Best Hikes and Nature Trails on the Sunset Coast

Lace up those walking shoes! The cooler weather is perfect for treading the trails of the Sunset Coast.

This coastal region north of Perth is a hiker's paradise, offering a variety of trails that cater to different levels of fitness and interests – just seconds from suburbia. Whether you're looking for family-friendly paths for little legs, dog-friendly trails worth a sniff, or challenging hikes for passionate walkers, our guide has something for everyone.

Here are the best hikes and nature trails in the Cities of Joondalup, Wanneroo, and Stirling.

Yellagonga Regional Park

Yellagonga Regional Park is a hot-spot for nature lovers and families alike. This expansive park offers up a network of walking and cycling trails that wind through wetlands, woodlands, and open grasslands. Well-trod trails are the Lake Joondalup loop and popular Perry’s Paddock, complete with quaint old cottage ruins. You’re sure to spy an array of native wildlife, including kangaroos, turtles, birds, and more in this regional park.

Family-Friendly: The trails are relatively flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for young children. The regional park has several picnic spots and playgrounds, including Joondalup’s Neil Hawkins Park.

Dog-Friendly: Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash.

Craigie Open Space

Craigie Open Space is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the sweet Quendas (aka Southern Brown Bandicoots) that scuttle through the area. The conservation area features several walking trails that meander through bushland and open spaces, easily accessed from Craigie Lesure Centre.

Family-Friendly: The trails are easy to moderate in difficulty level, making them suitable for families.

Dog-Friendly: Dogs are prohibited.

Play Trail, Yanchep National Park

Take your Yanchep National Park adventure to the next level with the Play Trail scavenger app - a unique blend of natural beauty and interactive fun. The whole family can learn fun facts, tackle challenges, take selfies and score points on a 1.2km scavenger hunt through the park. This innovative trail uses augmented reality to bring the park's history and wildlife to life, making it a hit with kids and tech-savvy hikers. Download the Play Trails app free from the app store.

Family-Friendly: The trail is designed for families, offering engaging and educational content for kids.

Dog-Friendly: Dogs are not allowed in the national park.

10th Light Horse Trail, Neerabup

Giddy up for the 10th Light Horse Trail - a tribute to the mounted infantry of World War Two. This 1.2km trail takes hikers through bushland and past historical markers that tell the story of the 10th Light Horse Regiment. Their horse lines and camp ground foundations are still visible today.

Family-Friendly: The trail is relatively short – great for kids.

Dog-Friendly: Dogs are not allowed.

Yaberoo Budjara Heritage Trail

Love a long hike sprinkled with a little culture? The Yaberoo Budjara Heritage Trail is an ancient Indigenous migration route that covers a whopping 28 kilometres (one way). Experienced hikers, runners, and mountain bikers will savour this challenging trail from Lake Joondalup to Yanchep National Park. Why not complete the trail over several days, by exploring it in smaller bites.

Family-Friendly: The first 2.5km section, starting at Neil Hawkins Park, is suitable for families.

Dog-Friendly: Dogs are not permitted in National Parks.

Star Swamp Heritage Trail, North Beach

The 96-hectare Class-A Star Swamp Bushland Reserve boasts the 1.4km Star Swamp Heritage Trail loop. The North Beach spot a haven for birdwatchers, with over 80 bird species recorded, as well as reptiles, insects, and spiders. In spring, delicate orchids can be found amongst the wetlands. The trail is rich in history, with several heritage markers providing information about the area's Aboriginal and European history.

Family-Friendly: The trail is easy and well-marked, suitable for children and beginners.

Dog-Friendly: Dogs are allowed on a leash.

Herdsman Lake

Are you a Twitcher? Herdsman Lake is a birdwatcher's paradise! One of Perth's largest inner metro wetlands is home to over 100 species of birds. The 8km lake loop trail is perfect for a peaceful walk or run, with plenty wildlife to spot amongst the rushes. Some birds migrate here to breed from the other side of the world. Explore more at the interactive Herdsman Lake Wildlife Centre.

Family-Friendly: The trail is flat and paved, making it accessible for strollers and bikes.

Dog-Friendly: Dogs are welcome on a leash.

Burns Beach to Mullaloo Coastal Path

Love staring at the sea? This scenic coastal path offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean, perfect for those who love a seaside stroll. The trail stretches for about 7 kilometres, making it a great option for a leisurely walk or a more intense run up and down the contours of the sand dunes. Best of all, cafes Sistas Burns Beach and Swell Mullaloo Beach bookend this path, perfect for grabbing a coffee on the go, or rewarding your walk with a big brunch.

Family-Friendly: The path is paved, suitable for strollers and bicycles. Plus, there are several playgrounds along the way.

Dog-Friendly: Dogs are welcome on a leash.

Trigg Bushland Reserve

Trigg Bushland Reserve features a network of trails that weave through coastal bushland. Explore the 3.4-kilometre loop walk around this peaceful coastal reserve, brimming with beautiful bushland, ocean views, and plenty of wildlife – including shy quendas. The reserve is known for its stunning wildflower show in spring.

Dog-Friendly: Dogs are allowed on a leash.

Whether you’re a hardened hiker, or casual wanderer, the Sunset Coast offers an incredible array of nature trails. An abundance of wildlife, wildflowers (in late winter and spring), pristine coastal wetlands, and historic remains can be found along the trails. Embrace the great outdoors and explore the natural beauty of the Sunset Coast in the Cities of Joondalup, Wanneroo, and Stirling.