John Forrest Waterfall & Walk Trail

A few weeks ago we were back at John Forrest National Park to see if the waterfall was as lively as Lesmurdie Falls had been and to enjoy a day out in one of Perth’s most beautiful and oldest National Parks.

Water Ribbon, John Forrest National Park, Western Australia

First, A Little History

Forest Path, John Forrest National Park, Western Australia

John Forrest National Park was the first area to be given National Park status in Western Australia in 1900 though it was originally named Greenmount National Park until it was renamed in later years to honor Lord John Forrest, the first Premier of Western Australia.

During the Great Depression sustenance worker’s built gardens, picnic shelters & even swimming areas which can still be seen around the visitor area. Sadly most of the bridges built across Jane Brook are in need of repair and not currently usable.

There also used to be a railway line to the Park which was part of the original route of the Eastern Railway that now runs from Freo to Northam. In the early 1900’s visitors regularly traveled out to the Park from Perth by rail for a day out in the forest. Sadly this is no longer possible as the rail link was rebuilt through the Avon Valley but you can now walk much of the abandoned railway line by following the 59km Railway Reserves Heritage Trail which passes through the Park.

Before heading out on any of the trails it’s worth having a look around the picnic area and seeing the landscaping that was done, it is a unique piece of history and an interesting place to explore with some amazing photo opportunities.

The Trails

A Trip to Perth’s Most Amazing Waterfall – Lesmurdie Falls

Having experienced a few Queensland waterfalls recently we decided to check out some waterfalls nearby to Perth. Whilst Perth isn’t known for it’s spectacular waterfalls we still have a few that stand out and are great spots to visit and photograph.

Lesmurdie Falls, Lesmurdie Falls National Park, Western Australia

Strangely Maggie & I have never visited Lesmurdie Falls, but it’s been on the short list for a while now and definitely qualifies as our tallest waterfall in the Perth area (correct me if I’m wrong).

As you can see from the above image the falls are in full flow this time of year and a very spectacular sight!

There are 4 signs at the entrance to the picnic area at the Falls Road car park which I highly recommend reading as they provide some very interesting information on the local flora and fauna, the nearby walk trails and the geological history of the region.

Mundy Regional Park

Walk Trails

The Darling Scarp

The Darling Fault

From the picnic area we first headed east along the “Cascade Trail” and immediately noticed the sound of rushing water along Lesmurdie Brook although it was not yet visible at this point being hidden among the reeds. This part of the trail is quite narrow, rocky and a bit damp underfoot but nothing that couldn’t be handled with an average pair of walking shoes. The rocks can be slippery though so watch out for kids doing what kids do or they’ll be doing it on their backsides 🙂