Trail Fast Facts
Jarrahdale Balmoral Trail is an 11km, grade 3 hike in Balmoral POW Camp, Western Australia. This hike typically takes 3 hours to complete.
Warning
This hike is classified as Grade 3 (Moderate) due to its distance exceeding 10km. While the terrain itself is relatively easy and may be suitable for all abilities, the long distance requires a greater level of fitness and preparation. Feel free to turn back at any point for a shorter adventure.
Hike Overview
This 11 kilometre rail trail follows a former tramway from the Balmoral POW Camp to Mundlimup Timber Trails. It is part of the Munda Biddi Trail. The trail is easy and accessible to both walkers and mountain bikers.
The Balmoral Trail starts or finishes at the Jarrahdale World War II POW Camp. The trail goes through bushland and some farmland. Along the way the trail passes a log loading ramp and several "shield trees". These shield trees have numbers carved into them and were used by foresters in the 1920s as a grid reference system.nSignage describes its operation and explains the ruins that remain. At one point the rail formation crosses a private farm. Stiles have been provided to allow access across the farm
Tips
Start Point: Balmoral POW camp, Balmoral Road, East of Jarrahdale (70kms or 1 hour from Perth)
End Point: Jarrahdale Road
Region: Balmoral POW Camp, Perth
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track Grade
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.
About the region
The POW working camp was built in 1944 housing 220 Italian prisoners of war from the Northern African campaign of World War II. The prisoners worked in the forest cutting firewood and lived and worked at the camp. It closed in 1946 at which point prisoners were repatriated to Italy. There is a nice little walk trail through the camp and the different foundations are sign-posted so you can get an idea of how the camp would have functioned.
Suggest an edit
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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Balmoral POW Camp or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
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.
Gear to consider
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
Explore Safe
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.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.