First, Aussies were obsessed with music festivals. Then, food and drink fests took over the scene. Now, a new type of festival is marching into town… Debuting this September, Perth Hills WanderFest is a first-of-its-kind hiking festival offering nature enthusiasts the chance to experience the beauty of Western Australia in spring.
You don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to join the adventure. WanderFest’s inaugural program features five wildly different guided walks tailored for beginners, pros, youth, seniors and people with accessibility needs. Led by local experts, these hikes are also extremely inclusive in terms of price, with all tickets available for just $30.
Never been hiking before? This is your sign to start. The beginner-friendly three-kilometre F.R. Berry Reserve walk in Gidgegannup winds through woodlands and past wildflowers to a stunning waterfall, revealing one of Perth Hills' most underrated pockets of wilderness.
Consider yourself a hiking pro? You can take on the advanced 16-kilometre Kitty’s Gorge trek in Jarrahdale. Warning: your legs will burn, but the breathtaking views of Serpentine Falls at the end will make every step worth it.
Little adventurers can join the family-friendly, 3.4-kilometre Piesse Brook return hike in Kalamunda; seniors can take it easy on the gentle five-kilometre Armadale Settlers Common loop in Bedfordale; and those with accessibility needs can sign up for the mostly flat three-kilometre Lake Leschenaultia walk in Chidlow, which is suitable for wheelchairs, prams and walking aids.
Perth Hills WanderFest is happening over the King’s Birthday long weekend in Western Australia from September 26 to 29. While you’re there, you might as well make a weekend out of it. Stock up on snacks at the local markets, reward yourself with a pub feed post-hike and rest your legs at a cosy B&B. WanderFest tickets go live on July 1, but all the hikes are ready for you to explore here.
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