Starting from the picnic and parking area in John Forrest National Park, this 2.5-kilometre trail follows Jane Brook along the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail before reaching National Park Falls. This short but rewarding walk offers a mix of natural beauty and history, with remnants of the old railway line adding a sense of the past to the landscape.
During the cooler months, typically between September and October, the falls flow over large granite rock formations, spilling into a green valley below. A small viewing bridge offers a great vantage point, allowing you to take in the full scale of the cascading water. Even when the falls are dry in summer, the surrounding bushland and rocky terrain make for an enjoyable and scenic walk.
The return leg follows the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail back towards the picnic area, making for a relaxed loop with plenty of opportunities to pause and appreciate the surroundings. Situated just 28 kilometres east of Perth, John Forrest National Park is a convenient escape into nature, offering a variety of trails and picnic spots to explore beyond this short walk.
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Total distance: 2401 m
Max elevation: 154 m
Min elevation: 130 m
Total climbing: 38 m
Total descent: -38 m
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Getting to the trailhead: John Forrest National Park.
To reach the trailhead for the National Park Falls 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.
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Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: 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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Main image: Parks and Wildlife Service (DBCA)
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