One of the most isolated capitals in the world, Perth is the sunny capital of Western Australia. Out here in the western coast you'll find a haven for cyclists with diverse landscapes and great weather year-round. The city boasts an extensive network of bike paths and trails, providing safe and enjoyable routes for cyclists to experience the beauty of Western Australia's capital city. With its mild winters and bright summers, Perth's weather is conducive to year-round biking adventures, making it a paradise for cyclists of all abilities and ages.
1. Perth Foreshore
Length: 10 km
Skill Level: Beginner
Notable Landmarks: Elizabeth Quay, Kings Park and Botanic Garden
The Perth Foreshore bike trail is a scenic 10-kilometre route that caters to cyclists of all skill levels, offering an easy and enjoyable ride along the Swan River. Starting at Elizabeth Quay, riders can enjoy picturesque views and key landmarks such as Kings Park, the South Perth Foreshore, Mends Street Jetty, Matagarup Bridge, Optus Stadium and Heirisson Island. The trail features flat, well-maintained paths and numerous amenities, including drinking fountains, restrooms and picnic areas, making it an ideal choice for families, casual cyclists and tourists. This trail provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm, showcasing some of Perth's most iconic spots.
2. Kalamunda Circuit
Length: 22 km
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Notable Landmarks: Kalamunda National Park, Camel Farm
The Kalamunda Circuit bike trail, nestled in the Kalamunda National Park near Perth, offers a thrilling 22-kilometre loop designed for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers. This challenging trail features a mix of steep climbs, fast descents and technical sections, set against the stunning backdrop of the Darling Range. Starting at the Calamunnda Camel Farm, you'll encounter notable landmarks such as the serene Rocky Pool and the historic Mundaring Weir, while navigating through dense forests and open woodlands. The well-maintained and clearly marked trail includes various sections catering to different riding styles, making it a premier destination for those seeking an exhilarating mountain biking experience.
3. Railway Reserves Heritage Trail
Length: 41 km (loop)
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Notable Landmarks: John Forrest National Park, Swan View Tunnel
The Railway Reserves Heritage bike trail in Perth is a 41-kilometer loop that follows the path of the old Eastern Railway, providing an easy and scenic ride suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. Starting in Bellevue, the trail meanders through the lush Perth Hills, featuring notable landmarks such as the historic Mundaring Weir, the picturesque John Forrest National Park with its iconic Swan View Tunnel and the natural charm of Chidlow, Parkerville and Mount Helena. With a mix of gravel and paved paths, the trail is well-maintained and equipped with amenities like restrooms, picnic areas and informative historical markers, making it a great choice for families, casual riders and history enthusiasts.
4. Shakes n' Ladders, Lake Leschenaultia
Length: 1.3 km
Skill Level: Intermediate
Notable Landmarks: Lake Leschenaultia, Chidlow
The Shakes n' Ladders bike trail at Lake Leschenaultia in Perth is a 1.3-kilometre route designed for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers, featuring a mix of technical challenges such as rock gardens, wooden ladders and jumps. Starting near Lake Leschenaultia, a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, the trail winds through dense forest and rugged terrain, offering both thrilling obstacles and stunning natural scenery. Well-marked and maintained, the trail ensures a safe yet exciting ride, with essential amenities like restrooms and picnic areas available at the lake. This trail provides a dynamic and rewarding experience for those seeking adventure in the Perth Hills.
5. Kep Track
Length: 75 km
Skill Level: Intermediate
Notable Landmarks: Mundaring Weir, Northam
The Kep Track is a multi-use route stretching from Mundaring to Northam, offering a gentle ride on well-maintained gravel paths suitable for cyclists of intermediate ability. Following the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail, it features key landmarks such as the historic Mundaring Weir, the quaint areas around Sawyers Valley, Mount Helena, Chidlow and Bakers Hill, and ends in the vibrant town of Northam. The trail provides breathtaking views of forests, farmland and rural landscapes, along with rest areas, picnic spots and historical information boards, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration for a leisurely and enriching cycling experience.
6. John Forrest National Park
Length: Various (multiple trails)
Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced
Notable Landmarks: Hovea Falls, National Park Railway Tunnel
John Forrest National Park in Perth offers a network of bike trails that wind through its stunning landscapes, providing cyclists with a range of experiences suited to different skill levels. For adventurous riders, the Eagle View Trail offers a thrilling 15-kilometer loop with challenging terrain and rewarding views of the park and surrounding areas. Notable landmarks along these trails include the historic Mundaring Weir, the picturesque Swan View Tunnel and the serene Rocky Pool. There are also shorter interpretive trails such as the Valley of the Giants, which showcases the park's unique flora, and the Rocky Pool Walk, which leads to a tranquil natural swimming hole. With its diverse range of bike trails and scenic landmarks, John Forrest National Park provides an unforgettable outdoor experience for cyclists of all levels.
Cycling Events in Perth
Perth hosts several mountain biking events and challenges throughout the year. The Kalamunda 50/50 is a popular annual race that takes place on the Kalamunda Circuit, offering both 50 km and 22 km options. Another notable event is the Dwellingup 100, part of the WA Marathon MTB Series, which attracts riders from across the country to tackle challenging forest trails.
Conclusion
Perth's bike trails offer an exceptional way to enjoy the natural beauty and diverse landscapes of Western Australia. From challenging mountain circuits to serene lakeside paths, there's a trail for every type of cyclist. And remember, Progear offers a wide selection of bikes and cycling gear perfect for tackling Perth's diverse trails. Whether you need a durable mountain bike for rugged trails or a comfortable cruiser for scenic paths, Progear has you covered. If you have any questions about our range or to figure out the best bike for your ride, don't hesitate to reach out to our team.
You can also check out our picks for the best bike trails in other state capitals, such as Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra and Brisbane.
