Discover Perth's Hidden Gems

Perth's relationship with walking trails dates back thousands of years to the Whadjuk Noongar people, the traditional custodians of the land. They created intricate networks of pathways that connected significant cultural sites, water sources, and hunting grounds. Many of Perth's modern walking trails follow these ancient routes, particularly along the Swan River (Derbarl Yerrigan) and through bushland areas.

In the colonial era, walking was the primary mode of transportation, and settlers established new paths that connected the growing city with outlying farms and communities. The late 19th century saw the establishment of Perth's first public parks, with Kings Park (originally called Perth Park) being declared in 1872. These green spaces provided recreational walking opportunities for residents seeking respite from the developing urban environment.

The early 20th century witnessed the growth of organized bushwalking as a recreational activity, with clubs forming to explore the hills and forests surrounding Perth. The establishment of national parks and reserves, beginning with John Forrest National Park in 1898, protected natural areas for walking and conservation. The post-WWII period saw increased interest in outdoor recreation, leading to the development of more formalized trails and interpretive walks.

In recent decades, Perth has invested significantly in creating and maintaining walking infrastructure. The development of river foreshore paths, coastal walkways, and urban trails has transformed how residents and visitors experience the city. The Bibbulmun Track, completed in 1979 and extended in 1998, starts in Kalamunda in Perth's hills and stretches 1,000km to Albany, becoming one of the world's great long-distance walking trails.

Today, Perth boasts a diverse network of walking paths that showcase the city's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and urban development. From the Aboriginal heritage trails that acknowledge traditional connections to country, to modern boardwalks along the revitalized Elizabeth Quay, walking remains a fundamental way to experience and appreciate Perth's unique landscape and history.