17th February 2025

Serpentine Falls: The Ultimate Guide to Hiking and Relaxing in Nature

Experience Serpentine Falls with the perfect balance of adventure and calm.

Deep in the heart of Serpentine National Park, just an hour from Perth, lies one of Western Australia’s most breathtaking natural escapes. Serpentine Falls is where towering granite, ancient forests, and cascading water create a place of stillness—where you can breathe a little deeper, wander a little further, and reconnect with the wild.

With short and scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and peaceful picnic spots, Serpentine Falls is the perfect destination for those who crave adventure but also love to slow down and take it all in. Whether you’re setting out on a sunrise hike, watching kangaroos graze by the water, or resting beneath the trees with a thermos of tea, Serpentine Falls is the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Best Serpentine Falls Hikes & Nature Trails

1. Serpentine Falls  – A Short & Scenic Stroll

🥾 Distance: 400m return
⏳ Time: 10 minutes
🟢 Difficulty: Easy

If you’re here for the best waterfalls near Perth, this is an easy one. A short, well-maintained path leads to the Serpentine Falls lookout, where the river spills over a smooth rock ledge into the natural rock pool below. This stunning viewpoint is especially magical in the morning light, when the water glows against the red granite backdrop.

What You’ll Love:

• An easy, accessible walk to one of WA’s most photographed waterfalls
• Plenty of wildlife—kangaroos are often spotted lazing in the sun nearby
• Tranquility in the off-peak hours—visit early or midweek to soak up the stillness

2. Baldwin’s Bluff Trail – A Quiet Climb with Panoramic Views

🥾 Distance: 6km return
⏳ Time: 2-3 hours
🟡 Difficulty: Moderate

If you’re after a little elevation, the Baldwin’s Bluff Trail takes you high above Serpentine Falls for expansive views over the Serpentine Valley. It’s a steady climb through native bushland, with a mix of shaded and open sections. The summit is worth the effort—especially in late winter and spring, when the wildflowers come alive.

What You’ll Love:

• A peaceful, less-travelled route with rewarding views
• Black cockatoos and echidnas often spotted along the trail
• A chance to step away from the crowds and into the quiet of the hills

Local Tip: There’s little shade at the top—bring plenty of water and a hat for the midday sun.

3. Kitty’s Gorge Trail – The Ultimate WA Adventure Trail

🥾 Distance: 14km return
⏳ Time: 4-5 hours
🔴 Difficulty: Hard

For those who like their hikes long, rugged, scenic hikes, packed with natural beauty, Kitty’s Gorge is the ultimate adventure. This challenging trail near Perth follows the Serpentine River and Gooralong Brook, this trail takes you deep into the forest, past waterfalls, granite outcrops, and fern-filled valleys. It’s one of the most beautiful hiking trails in WA, especially after winter rain when the waterways are flowing.

What You’ll Love:

• A mix of steep climbs, shaded gullies, and flowing streams
• Hidden waterfalls and some of the best wildflower displays in spring
• A true back-to-nature experience—quiet, remote, and breathtaking

Local Tip: If you don’t have time for the full trail, start at Jarrahdale Cemetery and hike one way to Serpentine Falls for a shorter section with just as much beauty.

Relax & Reconnect: Picnic Spots & Wildlife Watching

Serpentine Falls Picnic Area

After your hike in Serpentine National Park, slow down and enjoy a peaceful picnic. The Serpentine Falls picnic area is the perfect spot to rest your legs, enjoy a packed lunch, and watch the resident kangaroos graze in the afternoon sun. Shaded picnic tables, BBQ facilities, and the sound of the river flowing nearby make it one of the best nature escapes close to Perth.

Best Time to Visit & Safety Tips

When to Go

• Spring (August – October): Wildflowers in bloom, perfect hiking conditions
• Winter (May – July): Falls at their most powerful, misty mornings
• Summer (December – February): Early starts essential—high temps by midday

Safety in Serpentine National Park

✔ No swimming— Slippery rocks and water-borne bacteria make swimming dangerous.
✔ Stay on marked trails—Serpentine’s rugged terrain can be deceiving.
✔ Wildlife awareness—Kangaroos, snakes, and birds all call this park home—give them space.
✔ Pack plenty of water—Especially on longer hikes like Kitty’s Gorge.

Experience Serpentine Falls with The Hike Collective

There’s something special about stepping into nature with like-minded adventurers. A guided hike with The Hike Collective means you get to discover hidden gems, learn the stories of the land, and experience the beauty of Serpentine Falls with a group of explorers who get it.

✔ Knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape to life
✔ A safe and social hiking experience—no need to navigate alone
✔ Access to unique insights about the trails, flora, and fauna

Escape the City & Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Serpentine Falls

So, what are you waiting for? Step into nature, explore the best waterfalls near Perth, and discover the magic of Serpentine Falls. Whether you take a short scenic stroll or challenge yourself on a full-day hike, this breathtaking national park near Perth will leave you feeling recharged and inspired.

 Book your guided hike today with The Hike Collective and experience Serpentine Falls like never before!