The Cascades is a 1.2km, grade 2 hike located in Gloucester National Park, Western Australia. The hike should take around 45 minutes to complete.
Hike overview
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.
Route and GPX file
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Tips
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.
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Gallery
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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.
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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.
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Gear to consider
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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.