PERTH Hills WanderFest is an exciting new hiking festival set to launch across the region on Friday, September 26 to Monday, September 29.

The festival is the first of its kind, delivered in collaboration with Destination Perth, and supported by The Hike Collective, Off The Beaten Track WA, and the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC).

Spanning five destinations, the festival invites locals and visitors alike to experience a series of guided hikes and immersive outdoor activities designed to highlight the region’s trails, landscapes and local businesses.

A travelling trails series in Gidgegannup, Kalamunda, Chidlow, Bedfordale, and Jarrahdale, WanderFest encourages hikers of all abilities to hit the trails to experience the beauty of the Perth Hills in spring.

Step into landscapes rich in history and overflowing with breathtaking views, or spot wildflowers and waterfalls, quendas rustling in the undergrowth and Carnaby’s black cockatoos soaring overhead, in a magical afternoon out in nature.

Hikes tailored for beginners, youth, seniors, accessibility needs, and advanced will be delivered in collaboration with award-winning local tour operators, The Hike Collective and Off the Beaten Track WA, who specialise in creating safe, engaging, and memorable guided walks.

Destination Perth chief executive officer Sonja Mitchell said WanderFest offered the perfect chance for locals and visitors alike to get a taste of hiking in the stunning Perth Hills.

“It’s a fantastic way to showcase the beauty and diversity of the region’s world-class trails,” she said.

“We hope hikers will make a day of it by exploring some of the unique pubs, cafes, wineries, and retailers that give the area character.”

Perth Hills Tourism Alliance chair Barbara Hugill said WanderFest marked an exciting new chapter for local tourism.

“WanderFest is a celebration of nature, wellness, and community that brings the whole Perth Hills together,” she said.

“This collaborative event showcases the trails, landscapes, and local businesses that make our region so special. It’s a powerful example of what’s possible when passionate tourism partners unite behind a shared vision.”

A series of WanderFest satellite activities will encourage visitors to linger longer in the Perth Hills.

Rest your weary legs with a night or two at a local retreat, fuel up for your hike with a pub meal, or shop for fresh produce at the local markets and orchards.

The hikes:

FR Berry Reserve, Gidgegannup, City of Swan is designed for beginners and first-time hikers, this is an easy-going 3km loop walk through one of the most underrated pockets of wilderness. Wind your way through jarrah, marri, and wandoo woodlands, skirting granite outcrops dusted with wildflowers in spring. At the waterfall lookout, take a moment to soak it all in.

Piesse Brook, Kalamunda, City of Kalamunda allows a family and youth focussed hike journeying through towering forests, granite outcrops, and winding creeks, all leading to the iconic Rocky Pool. The 3.4km return trail follows Piesse Brook, a lifeline for native wildlife including splendid fairy wrens. Scavenger hunt sheets are provided.

Lake Leschenaultia, Chidlow, Shire of Mundaring is a low impact stunning and sensory-rich 3km trail.

The perfect way to connect with nature, spot wildlife and build confidence in a small group. The path is mostly flat and has benches to rest along the way, making it suitable for wheelchairs, prams or walking aids. Support workers and carers can attend for free.

The PHTA is a collaborative partnership between five local governments in the Perth Hills: the cities of Armadale, Kalamunda, and Swan, and the shires of Mundaring and Serpentine Jarrahdale.

A new downloadable guide to ensure visitors can return to safely explore the trails at their leisure will be available from October 1.

Hike tickets are $30 and go on sale on July 1 from www.experienceperthhills.com.au/campaign/wanderfest/