Let’s wander through the wildflowers of the wild wild west!
The world-class selection of wildflowers roaming through the spring fields and gardens of Western Australia is an iconic part of life in WA. Yes, we have amazing beaches, coastal sunsets, and perfect weather for about 300 days of the year, but with over 12,000 species of wildflowers blooming through the state in spring, the wildflowers are just as iconic.
Perth is a hotspot of orchids, myrtles, and more, and there is something magical about exploring the woodlands and forests of Perth, so we have put together the list of where to wander while breathing in the sweet sweet scents of springtime florals.
Anywhere in Kings Park, and Botanic Gardens
From September 1 each year, Kings Park hosts the wildflower festival. You can view over 3,000 varieties of wildflowers unique to WA along the botanic garden’s walkways, or the 3km law walk, or you can get more creative and view them in their more native habitat, through the middle of the park on a a 7km journey through Kings Park on the natural bush trails and promenades.
Hidden Secrets of Araluen Botanic Park
The tulip festival also kicks off in September each year, at the little sister of botanic gardens in Perth, at Araluen, in Roleystone.
As the name suggests, the terrain through here is quite ‘roley’ with lots of hills to hike up an appetite or get the blood pumping. You can wander your way through the gardens, or join in on a scheduled tour for a 4km walk to uncover the hidden secrets with The Hike Collective, to get behind the fences, and into the untouched beauty of the park.
Wildflower Walk Trail, John Forrest National Park
Make a day of it, and head out into the beautiful John Forrest National Park for a more natural look at wildflowers. With two winter flow waterfalls on either side of the wildflower walk trail, this beginner-friendly 4km loop will give you a look through Perth’s first National Park and highlight a varied array of wildflowers. Want more of a challenge? You can also explore more of the park with the Swan View Tunnel, Glenbrook Dam, Christmas Tree Trail, or Eagle View trail to pack an extra punch. Make sure you pack snacks and plenty of water to tackle the monster of Eagle View though!
Lesmurdie Falls
We all know and love Lesmurdie Falls for the spectacular darling scarp waterfall in the heart of the hills, but have you ever taken to the trails to explore the floral sweetness surrounding the falls? From a flat 2km loop, undulating 4km or a more adventurous 7km loop, you can take in the sights of the city, sounds of waterfalls, and scents of the WA springtime. Stick around for an epic sunset if weather permits.
Wireless Hill Wildflower Walk, Alfred Cove
For something close to the city, Wireless Hill will pleasantly surprise you with its eucalypt woodlands and native blossoms as you meander along the beginner-friendly 1km walk trail. This little heaven tucked away so close to the city provides a perfect family-friendly option, to stretch the legs, and open the lungs. Pack a picnic and make a morning of it!
Bibbulmun Track, Piesse Brook
There is something magical about wandering along the side of granite outcrops, with a trickling stream on one side, and bursts of colour along the other. That is exactly what you will find as you journey along the Piesse Brook interpretive Trail or the Bibbulmun Track in Piesse Brook. Options are ample with a beginner-friendly 2km trail, a hybrid 4km or an all-day Bibbulmun Adventure. If you want the full WA showcase of wildflowers, you can enjoy multiple sections of the Bibbulmun Track, as it meanders a total of 1000 kilometres from Kalamunda to Albany. Are you up for it?
So, what are you waiting for? Spring is the time to adventure, explore, expand your lungs, and get happy while hiking!
