The Eagle View Walk is a 16-kilometre, grade 4 hike that takes you through the heart of John Forrest National Park in Western Australia. It’s a well-loved route for bushwalkers, offering a mix of challenging terrain and stunning views. This circuit typically takes around four hours to complete, though the time can vary depending on your pace and how much you stop to take in the surroundings.
As you walk, you'll be treated to expansive views over the Swan Coastal Plain, with Perth city on the horizon and the ocean stretching out in the distance. The trail offers a deep connection to nature, passing through a range of habitats that are a haven for local wildlife. In spring, the path comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, making it a particularly beautiful time to visit. The hike also takes you past several picturesque waterfalls, adding a serene touch to the landscape.
John Forrest National Park, located in the Darling Ranges, is Western Australia's oldest national park. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide a perfect backdrop for the Eagle View Walk, which leads you through a variety of vegetation types. From heathlands and open wandoo woodlands to the mixed jarrah-marri-wandoo forest, the trail showcases the richness of the region’s flora.
The hike begins away from the picnic areas, following Jane Brook as it winds down the valley. As you continue, the trail ascends the valley wall, where you can stop to take in a sweeping view of the surrounding landscape. From there, the path undulates through valleys, creek lines, and rolling hills, making for a dynamic and engaging walk. Eventually, the trail loops back toward the brook, guiding you back to the main visitor area. Along the way, signs placed every two kilometres help you keep track of your progress, showing both how far you’ve come and how much further you have to go.
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to rest, Hovea Falls is a lovely place for a picnic, especially when the water is flowing. The Eagle View Walk can be tackled in either a clockwise or anticlockwise direction, each offering its own perspective of the park. While the trail is more challenging than others in the area, the rewards are well worth the effort. With a bit of planning, you can expect to complete the hike in about four and a half to seven hours, depending on your fitness level and how much time you spend enjoying the scenery.
The trailhead sign is located just across the brook, roughly 100 metres from the registration point. As you walk, you'll be guided by yellow triangle markers, each featuring the silhouette of an eagle. These markers are generally easy to spot, though there may be fewer of them when the trail overlaps with other paths.
- Bring plenty of water, especially in summer when temperatures can soar.
- Allow ample time for the hike—depending on your fitness level, it will take between four and seven hours.
- Factor in extra time if you plan to pause and appreciate the beautiful surroundings along the way.
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Total distance: 16020 m
Max elevation: 276 m
Min elevation: 73 m
Total climbing: 435 m
Total descent: -435 m
Getting to the trailhead: John Forrest National Park.
To reach the trailhead for the Eagle View Walk, head east along Great Eastern Highway and turn north into John Forrest National Park. Once inside the park, you’ll find the trailhead sign just across the brook, about 100 metres from the registration point. To get there, simply cross the bridge over Jane Brook, located directly north of the ranger’s office. While the trail was initially designed to be walked in a clockwise direction, it has since been found to be equally enjoyable when tackled anticlockwise. When you arrive at the trailhead, you can decide which direction suits you best before beginning your adventure.
Closest towns to this walk: Boya, Darlington, Gidgegannup, Glen Forrest, Gooseberry Hill, Greenmount, Helena Valley, Hovea, Kalamunda, Mahogany Creek, Midland, Mundaring, Parkerville, Sawyers Valley, Stoneville, Swan View
John Forrest National Park, located just 30 minutes from Perth, is one of the highlights of this area. As the first and oldest national park in Western Australia, it offers an array of scenic views, walking and cycling trails, and historic structures set against a backdrop of diverse wildlife. Upon arrival at the park, visitors can find numerous picturesque locations ideal for picnicking or using one of the available barbecues. The park features two waterfalls that flow during winter and spring—an especially beautiful time to witness the vibrant wildflowers in bloom.
The trails within John Forrest National Park lead adventurers through towering jarrah, marri, flooded gum, swamp peppermint, and paperbark trees. An intriguing feature is the Swan View Tunnel, which adds an element of mystery to your walk. While exploring these paths, you may encounter native wildlife such as western grey kangaroos lounging in their natural habitat. For those who prefer cycling, the Railway Reserves Trail offers an excellent opportunity to explore the area on two wheels. Whether you opt for a hike on one of the many trails or simply visit the lookouts, you’ll have plenty of chances to capture memorable photos showcasing views of Perth and the Swan Coastal Plain.
The cultural history of this region is equally significant. The Nyoongar people have inhabited the Midland to Guildford area long before European settlement. Historical accounts suggest that this area served as a hunting ground and that Jane Brook Valley was an ancient travel route used by the Nyoongar people to navigate across the Darling Scarp towards more open lands in the east. Jane Brook holds cultural importance as well; it is associated with the Dreamtime serpent known as Waugal, with local traditions stating that the rocks along this brook are remnants of this mythical creature.
Looking for more walks in or near John Forrest National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Western Australia’s South West
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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