This 11 kilometre loop trail in Walyunga National Park initially follows the Avon River before it ascends steeply to the western side of the river. It passes through marri and wandoo woodland, currently with a thick understorey of regrowth after fire, before offering good views of the Avon Valley from Woodsome Hill.
The track is rocky and involves some steep gravel ascents and descents. In late winter and spring there are abundant wildflowers. The trail is marked with black footprints and is best walked in an anticlockwise direction. Walyunga National Park covers 1,800 hectares of the Darling Range, tucked behind the Darling Scarp, covering both sides of a steep valley. Just to the east of the park, in the picturesque Avon Valley, the Avon River joins the Brockman River to form the Swan River which passes through the tree lined valley. Walyunga contains one of the largest known Aboriginal campsites around Perth and was still in use by the Nyoongar people late last century. The area has been used as a meeting place for more than 6000 years. Walyunga is an Aboriginal name, but its meaning is uncertain. Local Nyoongar people believe the Swan River was carved by the Waugal, and greet the dreamtime serpent here by rubbing sand on their bodies and throwing it in the water. The Swan River is the main attraction in the park as it thunders through in winter and meanders by in the drier months, lined with smooth granite boulders. The Echinda trail starts beside the lower pool in Walyunga and follows the river past Syd's Rapids. It then ascends steeply to Woodsome Hill from where there are excellent views of the Avon Valley. It passes through heathlands with hakeas, grevilleas, verticoRoadias, hibbertias and triggerplants. Although the animals except for kangaroos are elusive during the day, there is a myriad of Birdlife including galahs, parrots, black-faced cuckoo shrikes, thornbills and fantails. The trail is best walked anticlockwise, so as to avoid a slippery and steep descent. Its marker is a black footprint.
Start Point: Walyunga Pool Walyunga National Park, 35km north east of Perth
End Point: Walyunga Pool Walyunga National Park, 35km north east of Perth
Region: Walyunga National Park, Perth
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
3 Reviews on “Echidna Trail Walk (11km)”
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