The Best Hiking Trails and Nature Walks Around Bentley
1. Canning River Regional Park: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
One of the top spots near Bentley for nature walks is Canning River Regional Park, a beautiful natural reserve located just a short distance away. Spanning over 6 kilometers along the Canning River, this park offers numerous walking trails that meander through wetlands, bushland, and riverside environments.
The Woodloes Walk Trail is one of the most popular trails in the park, offering a peaceful walk through native bushland. This trail is perfect for beginners and families, with well-maintained paths and plenty of shade along the way. The trail runs alongside the Canning River, providing picturesque views and opportunities for birdwatching. The Kent Street Weir, a major feature of the park, is also a great spot to pause and enjoy the tranquility of the river.
For those who enjoy a longer walk, the Wilson Wetlands Loop offers a 3-kilometer loop trail through wetlands rich in wildlife. The area is home to many native birds and provides a calming atmosphere for those looking to disconnect from the urban environment. Whether you’re seeking a short nature stroll or a longer walk, Canning River Regional Park offers a variety of trails suited to different levels of fitness and interest.
2. Hillview Lookout: A Scenic Bushwalk
For hikers seeking a more elevated experience, the Hillview Lookout in Welshpool, just a short drive from Bentley, is a must-visit. This hike offers a bit more of a challenge with its uphill paths leading to panoramic views of Perth’s city skyline and surrounding bushland.
The trail is surrounded by native flora, including wildflowers in the spring, and provides a quiet, immersive bushwalking experience. The highlight of the trail is the Hillview Lookout point, where hikers can stop to take in stunning views of the city and nearby hills. The trail itself is moderately challenging, making it ideal for those who want a more active walk while still being close to Bentley.
With its scenic views and natural bush surroundings, the Hillview Lookout offers an excellent hiking option for those who love a blend of physical challenge and natural beauty.
3. Manning Park: Family-Friendly Walks
While not technically a hiking destination, Manning Park offers several walking paths that are perfect for families and casual walkers looking to enjoy a day out in nature. Located in nearby Hamilton Hill, Manning Park is about a 20-minute drive from Bentley and offers a mix of nature trails and picnic areas.
The Azelia Ley Homestead Trail is a short and easy walk that takes you through the park’s well-maintained gardens and around its central lake. The lake is home to various bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The trail is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it ideal for families with young children or those who want to enjoy a relaxing walk without too much exertion.
Manning Park also features BBQ facilities, playgrounds, and plenty of open green spaces, making it an excellent location for a family day out. After a leisurely walk, you can settle down for a picnic or enjoy the park’s other amenities.
4. Bold Park: Explore Perth’s Natural Bushland
For those looking to experience Perth’s native bushland, Bold Park offers one of the best hiking and walking experiences in the area. Located about 25 minutes from Bentley, this vast reserve covers over 437 hectares and is home to a variety of trails that range in difficulty from easy walks to more strenuous hikes.
The most popular trail in Bold Park is the Reabold Hill Summit Trail, a moderately steep trail that leads to the highest natural point in the park. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Perth, the coastline, and the surrounding bushland. The trail is well-marked and offers interpretive signs along the way, providing information about the local flora and fauna.
Another great trail in Bold Park is the Zamia Trail, a 5-kilometer loop that takes you through the heart of the bushland. This trail is perfect for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the region without venturing too far from the city. The trail features a mix of open spaces and shaded areas, making it a great option for a morning or afternoon walk.
5. Jorgensen Park: Nature Walks with Historical Significance
Located in nearby Kalamunda, Jorgensen Park offers a mix of nature walks and historical significance that make it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park was once home to the Kalamunda Golf Course, and many of the old fairways have now been converted into walking paths that provide easy access to the natural bushland.
One of the park’s highlights is the Jorgensen Park Walk Trail, which offers a 2.5-kilometer loop through native bushland. The trail is relatively flat and easy, making it suitable for families and casual walkers. Along the way, you’ll pass through areas of regenerated forest and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding hills.
Jorgensen Park is also located near the Kalamunda Railway Heritage Trail, which follows the route of an old railway line. This trail is perfect for those interested in the history of the region and offers an easy walk through picturesque countryside. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or both, Jorgensen Park provides a pleasant and educational walking experience.
6. John Forrest National Park: A Hiker’s Delight
For a more rugged hiking adventure, head to John Forrest National Park, located about 40 minutes from Bentley. As one of the oldest national parks in Western Australia, John Forrest offers a range of hiking trails that cater to different levels of fitness and experience.
The Eagle View Walk Trail is the park’s most challenging hike, offering a 15-kilometer loop through dense bushland, rocky outcrops, and scenic valleys. This trail is ideal for experienced hikers looking for a full-day adventure. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Swan Coastal Plain and the opportunity to spot native wildlife, including kangaroos and wallabies.
For those seeking a shorter and less strenuous hike, the Glen Brook Dam Walk offers a scenic 2.5-kilometer trail around a tranquil dam, making it a great option for families or casual hikers.
Bentley and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of hiking trails and nature walks that cater to all levels of fitness and interests. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful riverside stroll at Canning River Regional Park, a challenging hike to Hillview Lookout, or a family-friendly walk at Manning Park, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to explore. With its proximity to Perth’s scenic reserves and bushland, Bentley is the perfect base for anyone looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. So grab your hiking boots or walking shoes, and set off on an adventure to discover the best hiking trails and nature walks around Bentley.
