Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the historical Balmoral Trail, a moderate 11km hike starting from the Balmoral POW Camp to the Mundlimup Timber Trails in Western Australia. Located just 70kms from Perth, near the quaint town of Jarrahdale, this trail offers a unique journey through bushland, farmland, and features intriguing landmarks like a log loading ramp and 1920's "shield trees". Ideal for both walkers and mountain bikers, remember to respect private property as the trail crosses a farm, use provided stiles for access.

Length:

11km

Duration:

3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Balmoral POW Camp

End: Jarrahdale Road

Balmoral POW Camp

Western Australia

Nearby town: Jarrahdale

From state capital: 70kms

Latitude: -32.364964818025086

Longitude: 116.16544246673585

Overview

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Important info

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

For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.

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

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.

Walk map and GPX file
Jarrahdale Balmoral Trail Walk (11km)

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Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Balmoral POW Camp.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

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.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Balmoral, Cuballing, Narrogin, Pingelly, Williams

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Balmoral POW Camp? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Reviews
Jarrahdale Balmoral Trail Walk (11km)

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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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

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