Perth's first hiking festival hits the trails this September

By: Lisa Cook 

Five trails. Four days. Endless views. Perth’s first-ever hiking festival, WanderFest, is set to take over the Perth Hills this King’s Birthday long weekend, and it’s out to prove that hiking is for everyone. 

From 26–29 September, WanderFest invites people to lace up and explore the region’s most spectacular trails with guided hikes tailored to all ages, abilities, and experience levels.

Whether that be wheeling along the 3km Lake Leschenaultia loop or tackling the terrain on the Kitty's Gorge Trail, everyone will be able to enjoy what the region has to offer.

Expect wildflowers in full bloom, native wildlife, cascading waterfalls and sweeping valley views. 

Each trail is guided by award-winning local operators The Hike Collective and Off the Beaten Track WA for a safe, fun and memorable experience. 

The festival program includes five guided hikes, ranging from short and accessible circuits to a challenging 16km trek:

• Settlers Common, Bedfordale (5km) – Gentle twilight trail perfect for seniors and beginners.

• FR Berry Reserve, Gidgegannup (3km) – Easy loop through woodlands and wildflowers for first-time hikers.

• Piesse Brook, Kalamunda (3.4km) – A youth and family-friendly interpretive trail, spot fairy wrens and bobtails with a scenic finish at Rocky Pool.

• Lake Leschenaultia, Chidlow (3km) – A wheelchair and pram-accessible shoreline walk. Carers and support workers join free of charge.

• Kitty’s Gorge, Jarrahdale (16km return) – Full-day adventure for experienced hikers, ending at the stunning Serpentine Falls.

Beyond the trails, WanderFest encourages hikers to make a day of it. Stop by the Chidlow Farmers Market, join a limited edition lakeside Stargrazing event, browse pop-up art workshops in Mundaring, or enjoy a hearty pub lunch after your walk. 

A downloadable Perth Hills hiking guide will be released on 1 October, so you can revisit the trails, or discover new ones, throughout spring. 

Event details

Image credit: Experience Perth Hills