Green Trails and Urban Tales: Perth’s Best Trails

TAKE A HIKE: Explore the natural beauty of Perth City.

Embrace the great outdoors right in the heart of Perth and hit some of the best walking and cycling trails.

Uncover hidden gems, quiet retreats, and diverse destinations that define the city's character. Whether strolling along the river or delving into the rich culture and history of the area, these experiences will reshape your connection with the city you call home. Boost your well-being in these lush landscapes, where relaxation, fitness, and fun coincide with incredible views.

Discover the locals' best trails in Perth City:

RIVERSIDE RAMBLES

Swan River Foreshore Loop via Heirisson Island

With the river and city as a backdrop, explore Heirisson Island, a wildlife sanctuary in the heart of the city. Scenic paths are popular for birding, hiking, biking and running, and it’s a beautiful place to visit any time of year. Once a small chain of islands, it has an exciting history and is important for the local Noongar people. Keep a look out for the kangaroo sanctuary!

The Tony Di Scerni Pathway, Mount Lawley

Follow this peaceful route along the Swan River’s wetlands, from Warndoolier in Mount Lawley to Bardon Park. Stop at the small jetty for a stunning city skyline view across the river (or a good chat and drinks break)! Listen out for frog calls and spot the different species of waterbirds.  

WALKS WITH A VIEW

Cliff Walk Loop, Kings Park

During wildflower season (September-November), get your flower fix doing the 2.4km Cliff Walk Loop, an easy family-friendly loop through King’s Park, which begins and ends from the parking area off Whadjuk Way. There are plenty of places to stop, rest, and enjoy the picture-perfect views of the CBD and the Swan River. Take your camera or smartphone to capture the moment!

South Perth Foreshore

Running, walking or cycling, this 5km trail provides ever-changing views of the Perth city skyline, framed by rippling water. You’ll always see something new as the light and tide change from hour to hour, season to season. It’s easy and flat, so ideal for the whole family. Learn more

BUSHLAND AND WETLANDS

Jirdarup Bushland Loop

Close to the vibrant Vic Park strip, Jirdarup (a Noongar word meaning ‘place of birds’) offers a looped walking trail through pristine banksia woodland. Spot kookaburras, rainbow bee-eaters or the endangered Carnaby’s Black Cockatoo. To get up close and personal with the birdlife and native wildflowers, the Friends of Kensington Bushland have regular guided walking tours.

Hyde Park

A tranquil retreat right near the city, making it an ideal setting for an outdoor wedding and the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, barbeque, bike ride or even just a casual walk around its two lakes. Before settlement, the park was part of the lands and waters used by the traditional Whajuk Noongar people. After European settlement in 1829, the park formed part of the area named ‘Third Swamp’, before 15 hectares were gazetted as a public park and renamed Hyde Park.

LOCAL HERITAGE AND ART

Art City Walking Trail, Perth City

Public art has the power to inspire thought, enhance our connection to a place, and transform how we experience our surroundings. In Perth, over 200 public artworks capture the city’s identity, both historic and contemporary. The Art City Walking Trail is a 3.1km curated urban art trail featuring a selection of artworks that highlight the dynamic evolution of the CBD and Northbridge, all set along paved pathways, making it a family-friendly exploration through the heart of the city.​

Burswood Park Heritage Sculpture Trail

Wander the Heritage Trail and discover bronze sculptures designed and produced by artists Joan and Charles Smith. These are a celebration of Perth's historical figures, commemorating the community’s builders. It’s reminiscent of many popular sculpture gardens found in European cities. Learn More

Have you walked or cycled any of these trails and have some photos or info you’d like to share? Share your adventure or recommend hidden gems of your own. There’s always more to explore in Perth City!