Trail Fast Facts
Understory is a 1.2km, grade 1 hike in Northcliffe, Western Australia. This hike typically takes 45 minutes to complete.
Hike Overview
Children and adults alike will discover a unique walk trail which features a collection of artworks in a natural bush setting designed to get visitors to look at their surroundings in a new way. This unique eco and cultural tourism experience is the first of its kind in Australia.
Located behind the Northcliffe Visitors Centre, Understory, Art In Nature provides a unique perspective on native forest as artisans of many media have produced artwork that interacts with the natural ecosystem. Collated in an interesting form, you will want to slow down and look around in oRoader to not miss some of the fascinating installations. Consisting mainly of sculpture, the art also includes poetry, prose and purposely written music. When venturing around the trail the presence of sculpture makes you look differently at the bush - looking up, down and deep into the forest. In looking for art you find the natural art of the forest. Keep an eye out for the little people of the forest; they seem to appear as if by magic. Children can venture to the story nooks and listen to especially written tales of the bush. Yes - the "Voices from the Forest" audio tour is specifically tailored for children and includes five stories "told" by animals of the forest. Each of the stories is listened to when reaching one of the five "Children's Storytelling Nook's". "
Tips
Start Point: Northcliffe Visitor Information Centre, Muirillup Road, 360km (4.5 hours) south of Perth
End Point: Northcliffe Visitor Information Centre, Muirillup Road, 360km (4.5 hours) south of Perth
Region: Northcliffe, South West
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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 1 (All-abilities) -Â Perfect for Families and Beginners: Grade 1 on the AWTGS represents the easiest walking tracks, perfect for families with young children or those new to bushwalking. No prior experience is required. These gentle walks feature a flat, even surface with no steps or steep sections. They are suitable for wheelchair users with assistance due to the even terrain. The total distance of a Grade 1 walk is typically no greater than 5 kilometers, making them a comfortable and manageable option for all ages and fitness levels.
About the region
The South West's vast landscape provides the perfect environment for outdoor adventure. It's easy to go off the beaten track, with beautiful coastal scenery, ancient mountain ranges and towering old growth forests waiting to be discovered. Team that with a soft adventure experience such as caving; or a heart-stopping experience, like throwing yourself out of a plane, and you've got a prime destination for all adventure seekers.
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 Northcliffe 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.