Hiker Guide - WA

The Goal

Master the Ascent. Hiking with a dog in the hills is about more than just walking; it’s about "four-paw drive." Our mission is to build your dog’s confidence on uneven granite, manage their energy on steep inclines, and ensure they remain secure on narrow ridge-lines. We focus on intermediate "Grade 3" trails that offer maximum reward with managed risk.

Summary

A successful mountain hike ends with a tired dog and a clean trail. By keeping your dog on-lead, you protect the local bandicoots and kangaroos that call these parks home. Bold Rule: Always carry a Snake First Aid kit (Tiger snakes and Dugites are active in the scarp). These trails are best hiked in the "Flow Season" (June–October) when the waterfalls are pumping and the granite isn't baking hot. On-leash only; check signage for seasonal baiting or closures.

The Top 5: Intermediate Vertical Hikes

1. Bells Rapids - The Goat Walk (Brigadoon)

  • Why It’s Great: The ultimate "Hill Sprints" location. The Goat Walk is a steep, gravelly ascent that offers 360° views of the Swan Valley and the churning rapids below.

  • The Perk: The river at the bottom is the perfect post-hike "cool down" for tired paws; plenty of space for a splash before the drive home.

  • The Challenge: Loose pea-gravel on the descent can be slippery; a front-clip harness helps prevent your dog from pulling you down the slope.

  • Dog Rule: Strictly on-leash. Enforced to protect the river ecosystem and prevent accidents on narrow, steep paths.

  • Official Info: Trails WA - Bells Rapids

2. Sixty Foot Falls (Ellis Brook Valley, Gosnells)

  • Why It’s Great: Short, sharp, and spectacular. This 2.1km loop takes you to the top of a dramatic waterfall with some of the best city views in the metropolitan area.

  • The Perk: Incredible wildflower displays in spring (August–September) make this a sensory overload for your dog’s nose.

  • The Challenge: Steep sections with sheer drops at the lookout—keep a short lead and high focus at the summit.

  • Dog Rule: On-leash only. This is a high-protection "Biodiversity Hotspot"; roaming dogs threaten rare local fauna.

  • Official Info: City of Gosnells - Ellis Brook Valley

3. Lesmurdie Falls - The Shoulder Trail (Mundy Regional Park)

  • Why It’s Great: "The Big One." Experience the base and the summit of Perth’s tallest waterfall. The Shoulder Trail offers rugged, rocky terrain that feels like a "real" mountain expedition.

  • The Perk: Multiple trail intersections allow you to shorten or lengthen the hike based on your dog’s energy levels on the fly.

  • The Challenge: High foot traffic on weekends. If your dog is reactive to people or other pups, aim for a mid-week sunrise hike.

  • Dog Rule: On-leash at all times. Required to manage visitor volume and protect nesting birds near the falls.

  • Official Info: Explore Parks WA - Lesmurdie Falls

4. Armadale Settlers Common - East Loop

  • Why It’s Great: The "Silent Forest." A massive 383-hectare reserve that feels world's away from the city. The East Loop takes you through dense Jarrah forest and across massive granite boulders.

  • The Perk: Significantly quieter than Lesmurdie or Bells; ideal for "distraction-free" training and peaceful bonding.

  • The Challenge: Navigation can be tricky—ensure you have an offline map (AllTrails) as phone signal can dip in the valleys.

  • Dog Rule: On-leash. Prevents dogs from wandering into neighboring State Forest areas where 1080 baiting may be active.

  • Official Info: City of Armadale - Settlers Common

5. Kitty’s Gorge - Jarrahdale Section

  • Why It’s Great: River-side technicality. By starting at the Jarrahdale Cemetery, you can hike the dog-friendly sections of the gorge through ancient granite formations.

  • The Perk: The constant sound of running water and the deep shade of the valley keep temperatures significantly lower than the exposed scarp faces.

  • The Challenge: Technical footing—expect slippery boardwalks after rain and uneven ground with exposed roots.

  • Dog Rule: On-leash and Boundary-Limited. You must turn back before entering Serpentine National Park (where dogs are strictly banned).

  • Official Info: Trails WA - Kitty's Gorge

The "Hikers Pack" Checklist

Leveling up your trail means leveling up your supplies. Don't leave home without:

  • Adventure Harness: Breathable mesh prevents overheating on steep climbs, and the back D-ring keeps the lead clear of their legs.

  • Thermal Bottle & Modular Bowls: Crucial for long treks; the insulated bottle keeps water cool for hours while the modular bowls save space in your pack.

  • Foldable Dog Bed: Lightweight and easy to deploy during half-way breaks so your dog can rest comfortably off the dirt or rocky terrain.

  • Dog Poop Carrier: A lifesaver on long trails where there are no bins; it allows you to carry waste hands-free and smell-free until you finish the hike.

  • Snake First Aid Kit: Always carry a compression bandage; the Perth Hills are prime territory for tigers and dugites.

  • High-Energy Treats: Hiking burns serious calories. Pack high-protein snacks like Kangaroo Jerky or Beef Liver to keep their energy levels up and reward good trail etiquette.