If you're looking for adventure, you've got it!
Perth's beautiful, diverse scenery is an extraordinary treat for locals and visitors alike, and there's nothing like getting off the beaten track (literally!) in a 4WD to discover hidden gems out of most people's reach.
Here's some top 4WD tracks in and around Perth that are close enough for a day trip but feel like a whole world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. And if you don't own a 4WD, you don't have to miss out on the fun – join in on a 4WD tour with Luxury Outback Tours or just hire a 4WD from Thrifty. Go forth and explore!
Preston Beach & White Hills Beach
Located in the Peel Region within the picturesque Yalgorup National Park, 30 minutes south of Mandurah, these gorgeous beaches are the closest southern locations from Perth where you can legally drive on the beach. Feel the wind in your hair, and get up close and personal to the coast! You can get onto the beach at Tims Thicket when the tide is up, or further down at White Hills, and then drive south along the coast towards Preston Beach. The beach can be soft at times, so it’s best to travel with multiple vehicles and make sure you’re prepared with emergency gear to avoid getting stuck.
Preston Beach is known for its great fishing – herring, whiting, tailor and more, while White Hills Beach is known for its sand dunes. 4WD access is not permitted on the dunes, but they’re still a spectacular sight, especially from the lookout.
While you're in the area, there's plenty to do in Yalgorup National Park! The Park is known for its stunning lakes and woodlands, as well as the unique thrombolites of Lake Clifton (a perfect backdrop for some astrophotography).
Mundaring Powerline Trail
This is a challenging track for experienced 4WDers only, and it's a good idea to go with a second vehicle as the terrain is unforgiving and vehicles often have to be recovered! That said, it's certainly a fun one, with plenty of action to be had. As the name suggests, this is actually a power line track managed by Western Power but open to the 4WD community. It takes about 5-6 hours to complete, but if you don't want to do the whole length there are a few early exit points along the way.
While you're in lush, green Mundaring, nestled in the Perth Hills, you'll find lookouts, forest, waterfalls and wildlife galore. There's plenty of walking and cycle trails too, with two new walk trails completed by the National Trust full of information about the area. The vast water reserve of the Mundaring Weir is a must-see, and make sure to visit the tree-lined quaint township of Mundaring for fine dining, boutique wineries and much more. Check in at the Mundaring Visitor Centre for more info.
Wilbinga Sand Tracks
Located on the northern outskirts of metropolitan Perth just after Yanchep and Two Rocks, the Wilbinga Dunes are easy to get to and very popular with Perth locals. With sandy tracks, steep ascents and descents, and seasonal beach driving, along with diverse plant life and beautiful bushland, it's got something for everyone – and it's great fun! There's also several rest areas for overnight camping, such as Jarrahs End and Wilbinga Grove.
While you're in the area, Yanchep and Two Rocks on the northern tip of the Sunset Coast offer plenty of interesting things to do and places to see. Yanchep National Park has Perth's only tourist cave and a lovely koala sanctuary, and Two Rocks boasts some stunning marine-themed sculptures courtesy of the abandoned theme park Atlantis Marine Park.
Waroona
Just under 1 hour 20 minutes from Perth City, the rural town of Waroona boasts spectacular lake views – and you can camp right next to the lake for only $10 a night! Scarp Road is the boundary to many of the tracks – just make your way around Waroona Dam and get exploring. Tracks vary from mild gravel tracks to big bog holes and hill climbs, so it's important to keep an eye out, especially since conditions change depending on the water level. Be careful, and have fun enjoying this picturesque spot!
If you're also into off-roading on two wheels, the Waterous Trail is a must-see while you're in the area - one of the original settlements in the area, this 61km loop connects the Waroona Dam with the Munda Biddi Trail.
Dwellingup
Waroona's neighbour Dwellingup boasts the excellent 105km Captain Fawcett Commemorative 4x4 trail, showcasing some of Western Australia's best Jarrah forests, historical farm houses, original settler trestle bridges, minor creek crossings and magnificent views. Starting within the Lane Poole Conservation Reserve, the easy-to-medium-grade 4WD section runs along old rail embankment, and remains of an old rail bridge stand adjacent to the track. There’s many spots along the track where you can pull off and enjoy a picnic on your way.
While you're in the area, Lane Poole is a treat in itself! This huge 50,000 hectare reserve has plenty of opportunities for swimming, camping, walking, and enjoying the serenity of nature.
Moore River
Just over an hour north from Perth City, Guilderton is a tiny town on the banks of the gorgeous Moore River. The town is perfect for swimming, fishing, walking along the beach and various river tracks, camping and relaxing over a BBQ. There’s a great coastal 4WD track starting from the Seabird turn-off along the coast, and there's also exciting river crossings.
Lancelin
The coastal town of Lancelin is also a short drive from Guilderton, making it an hour and a half from Perth CBD. It boasts one of regional WA's favourite attractions: its enormous, otherworldly sand dunes. Perth locals and visitors alike love sandboarding down the iconic dunes, but to experience them in a whole new way, there’s nothing like 4WDing in this incredible space! Some of the dunes can only be accessed by 4WD, making it a truly unique experience. Do note that the dunes can be soft at time, so having at least a basic understanding of 4WDing and how to recover your vehicle is important – it’s easy to get bogged into the dunes.
The town is also known for its awesome fishing and water sports: windsurfing, scuba diving, stand-up paddle boarding and more. Stay the night at the Experience Lancelin Holiday Park before heading further north to explore some WA treasures like the astounding natural rock formations of the Pinnacles, which make a perfect backdrop for some exceptional stargazing.
Don't want to take your own car?
Opt for the comfy option with Luxury Outback Tours offering guided tours departing from Perth and Fremantle to a variety of destinations, including a day-trip out to the Pinnacles.
