The Perth Hills are the place to be over the September long weekend. WanderFest celebrates hikers of all abilities and invites you to lace up your boots.
By Ara Jansen
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice, you’ll find a trail which fits you like a pair of well-loved hiking boots during spring’s Perth Hills WanderFest.
Taking place on the long weekend of September 26-29, hikers and walkers can enjoy a tailored hike series in Gidgegannup, Kalamunda, Chidlow, Bedfordale and Jarrahdale. Hikers of all abilities can hit the trails to experience the beauty of the Perth Hills as the weather warms.
Step into landscapes rich in history and overflowing with breathtaking views – spot wildflowers and waterfalls, quendas rustling in the undergrowth and Carnaby’s black cockatoos soaring overhead in a magical afternoon out in nature.
Hikes tailored for beginners, youth, seniors, advanced and those with accessibility needs will be led by award-winning local tour operators The Hike Collective and Off the Beaten Track WA, who specialise in creating safe, engaging and memorable guided walks.
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Destination Perth has teamed up with the Perth Hills Tourism Alliance to deliver the event for the first time. Chief executive Sonja Mitchell is excited about the new initiative and said September is a perfect time for locals to get out on the trails.
“I think people will be amazed at the variety of what they will see if they head out on a trail,” Sonja said.
“People are quick to think overseas is better, but we have this wonder on our doorstep. Plus, at this time of the year the weather is stunning for getting outdoors.”
With five different levels of hikes, the festival encourages people who have not gone of a walk or a hike before to take to the beginner trail in Gidgegannup, which is an easy-going 3km loop and includes a waterfall lookout.
In contrast the advanced hike is Kitty’s Gorge, a 16km return trail in Serpentine National Park and ready to push your limits. It tackles rugged terrain, steep climbs and long stretches of uninterrupted wilderness, all leading to the breathtaking Serpentine Falls. Your legs will feel the burn, but the views make every step worth it.
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“I’m a hiker but I’ve not done all of the hikes, so I am looking forward to trying them. For people on the trails, it’s not just about physical accessibility, but the hikes ask you to open your senses – smell, see and listen. It’s a chance to take in some deep breaths and enjoy the fresh air,” Sonja adds.
“For me getting out into the bush means ignoring the phone and letting my body relax and my mind expand and not be cluttered. Being away from that constant connection refreshes me and helps me be more creative.
“I encourage people to take photos with their mind and not their phones and let that be your photo library. It’s good to give yourself that time and space.”
WanderFest also encourages you to linger longer in the Perth Hills – rest weary legs with a night or two at a local retreat, fuel up or reward yourself with a pub meal or shop for fresh produce at the local markets and orchards.
A new downloadable guide to ensure visitors can return to safely explore the trails at their leisure will be available from October 1.
Hike tickets are $30. Get all the details here.
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