Nestled up in the Perth Hills is one of WA’s oldest and very first National Parks, established in 1900. Set in beautiful jarrah and marri forest and still largely in its native state, it commands stunning views from lookout points along its numerous trails.
Our marvellous meander today is a one way loop, to be enjoyed at a slow, relaxing pace with time for taking photos, searching for wildflowers and absorbing the history of the area. We head off, crossing Jane Brook and climb gently through jarrah and marri trees passing huge granite outcrops overlooking Jane Brook.
We wander through John Forrest National Park for 3km and then upon leaving the park we make our way along a peaceful country road passing unique and interesting cottages, homes and guesthouses, lush pastures and colourful plant life. Stopping at the historical old Parkerville Tavern, known by locals as ‘The Parky’, we’ll introduce you to its very colourful past.
Admiring this grand old hotel, we’ll stay for a cold drink and say hello to the friendly Emus while enjoying the garden setting. Heading back along the Rail Heritage Trail to Falls Reserve, lunch will be enjoyed sitting peacefully beside the Jane Brook as it gurgles and bubbles its way downstream. Our return trek takes us along the old railway line, past where the Hovea Station was once located. It’s a gorgeous trail, full of rich history, including a few old metal bridge structures from back in the day. With Parrot bushes in abundance we are treated to the spectacular sight of Red-tailed black cockatoos flying overhead amongst other colourful birdlife. Stopping in a beautiful setting we’ll watch Hovea Waterfalls cascade over the undulating face of orange and red rock, with blooms of green moss popping out in places.
Returning along the very edge of Jane Brook, we traverse the valley floor which is a mystical mass of flooded gums, swamp peppermint and paperbarks back to the dam at the carpark around 2.30pm.
To finish our day you are invited, should you wish, to join your host for a celebratory drink at the John Forrest Tavern where the parrots are in abundance and kangaroos abound ... you might even get to meet the very friendly 20 year old Kangaroo … Manky!
Duration: 5hours
Length: 11 km Loop
Grade: Medium/Easy - Gentle uphill for 1km then mostly flat
Start Point: John Forrest Tavern carpark located within the National Park. (Consider carpooling prior to entering the National Park to share entry fee of $13 cost - if you want this option note it in the comments field when booking and we'll share email addresses of the group closer the time so this can be arranged between yourselves).
Notice of cancellation must be in writing, with an email as an acceptable form of communication, directly to Adventurous Women with the following conditions:
Between time of booking and up to 7 days prior to event - Full Refund
7 days and up to 48 hours prior to the event - 50% cancellation fee
48 hours or No show on the day - No Refund
