The Hills

Named after an influential Western Australian Premier (the first, in fact), in 1947. Before its naming, government dole workers during the Great Depression constructed fountains, benches, etc. which are typical of national parks today. The park is situated in the beautiful area on either side of Jane Brook as it passes through the Darling Range to the Scarp. The park is made up of thick bush and is home to many small forest creatures.

A scenic reservoir surrounded by hills and forests. Good for a picnic, and there are hiking trails nearby. The weir (a large dam) was completed in 1903. Visitors may walk over or around the Weir, and the surroundings have picnic areas featuring public barbecues. There is also a museum nearby which documents the history of the Weir and the Pipeline project. The Mundaring Weir Hotel is also a historic landmark and offers good food, accommodation and often live (usually classical) music.

A popular scenic drive with great views over Perth. Also walkable, since traffic is slow moving, as long as you are careful. The route is a converted rail line.

One of the more spectacular waterfalls on the Darling Range escarpment. Waterfalls only flow after rains in this region, so the best time to observe the falling water is in winter. From July to October you'll see a lot of wildflowers, including some rare orchids not found anywhere else in the world.

The Perth hills offer a vast range of trails, often maintained by local mountain bike groups. Check out Goat Farm Mountain Bike Park, the Lake Leschenaultia Mountain Bike Trail Network or the Kalamunda Mountain Bike Park to name a few. If you are in for an even bigger challenge, prepare to tackle the Munda Biddi Trail. Starting in Mundaring, it's a 1000 km—trail taking you via the state's South West to Albany on the east coast of Western Australia.