Set amid the karri forest about eight kilometres south of Pemberton, these rocky rapids and surrounds provide a place for an outdoor lunch, a leisurely afternoon stroll, or a few peaceful hours of fly fishing.
The Cascades are a series of picturesque waterfalls that flow from the Lefroy Brook near Pemberton. Enjoy a lovely day wandering through the forest and fishing at the Cascades. nnNestled in the Gloucester National Park, this tranquil setting is only four hours drive south of Perth. nnJust off the Bibbulmun Track, the walking enthusiast will enjoy the six kilometre walk along the track from Pemberton to the Cascades. There is a trail which allows you to loop around the waterfalls and capture a photo from every angle. The views are magnificent and the natural surrounds refreshing and revitalising. As you wander down to the picnic site from the parking area, listen to the voices of the Birds as they chatter in the trees. Water is always a focus for forest life. From there, its just a few steps to the lookout, or you can get a closer view of the Cascades by stepping down to a Boardwalk that crosses a tributary of Lefroy Brook. Beware of the slippery rocks and stay well back from the water's edge. The loop trail, which starts from the Picnic Area and crosses the Northcliffe tramway, takes you through different types of forest and you will see some lush fern and reed growth near the water. The trail passes through the peppermints and sheoaks. So try to identify the trees or catch a glimpse of a trout or marron in the brook. The national park is home to many of the state's marsupials and wildflowers which can be spotted whilst walking along the trail. Return to Pemberton along the track or alternatively catch the tourist train.
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.
Start Point: Gloucester Natioanal Park at The Cascades car park
End Point: Gloucester Natioanal Park at The Cascades car park
Region: Gloucester National Park, South West
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
Do you have a GPX file for this hike? Feel free to email it to me so I can add it to this hikes info.
Click to add your file >>
Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Gloucester National Park.
The Gloucester National Park is accessible via sealed roads from Pemberton.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
Only 3km from Pemberton, Gloucester National Park is home to Western Australia's most famous karri tree. The Gloucester Tree was once a fire lookout tree and can now be climbed by the public. Those who do venture up the 153 pegs to the top will be rewarded with commanding views of the karri forest and surrounding farmland. The karri forest is home to many native mammal species such as quenda, quokkas, mardos and dunnarts. These animals are shy and rarely seen. Sit quietly in the forest at Cascades and you may be rewarded with the sight of honeyeaters, wrens, fantails and robins flitting around through the undergrowth.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Gloucester National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Gallery
Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.
Click to add your photos >>
Suggest an edit
Notice something different about this trail? Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.
Click to suggest edits >>