Accessible Nature Trails in Perth: Outdoor Adventures for Families
Getting out on a nature trail is a way for families to slow down and spend time together, enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re following a boardwalk through wetlands, exploring beneath shady trees or taking in views along the river, trails create opportunities to notice what’s around you, explore at your own pace and connect with nature along the way.
For families with accessibility needs, knowing whether a trail will work for them can make all the difference for a successful family outing. Clear information about path surfaces, accessible toilets, parking and other facilities can help families feel more confident choosing where to go.
We asked Sarah Harris, Community Development & Partnerships Coordinator at Cahoots, how our Play in WA map’s accessibility features can help families to find suitable outing locations;
“I love that it is a resource for everyone and can be filtered by features such as toilets, BBQs and water fountains, as well as inclusive features like accessible toilets, accessible playground equipment and fenced playgrounds. Families can find locations that meet their individual needs.”
Sarah also shared her advice for families who would like to spend more time in nature but aren’t quite sure where to start;
My advice would be to start small and focus on positive experiences rather than distance, duration, or adventure. Look for local outdoor spaces that match your family’s needs and interests, and use the Play in WA map to gather information about paths, parking, toilets, shade, seating, noise levels, and accessibility before you go.
Many children who are neurodivergent or living with disability benefit from knowing what to expect, so using photos, maps, social stories, or a simple plan for the day can help build confidence and reduce anxiety.
Keep your first adventure bite sized. A short visit to a local park, beach, or nature reserve is the perfect introduction to exploring nature. Regular positive experiences often lead to greater confidence and willingness to explore new places over time.
Accessible Nature Trails in Perth
To make it easier to find a trail that suits your family, we’ve highlighted seven accessible, nature-rich trails from our interactive Play in WA directory. Each offers accessible paths or trail options, along with opportunities to experience some of Perth’s most beautiful natural environments. And because every family’s accessibility needs are different, you can use the Play in WA accessibility filters to find out more about each location before you go.
Central Perth Accessible Trails
Herdsman Lake, Wembley: The Olive Seymour Boardwalk starts at the Herdsman Lake Regional Park Discovery Centre and cafe (we suggest checking opening hours prior to visits to the Discovery Centre). This 500m, class 1 loop overlooks the peaceful wetlands with abundant wildlife to spot.
Tomato Lake, Kewdale: This 1.6km, grade 1 dual-use paved trail around the perimeter of Tomato Lake is a vibrant nature trail, with abundant birdlife.
Accessible Trails North of Perth
Neil Hawkins Park, Joondalup: Here you’ll find a variety of accessible trail options to explore, including the Neil Hawkins Park to lookout return (5km). Available trails include grade 1, dual-use paved, limestone and a boardwalk.
Woodbridge Riverside Park, Woodbridge: The John George Trail (5km, grade 1, paved or gravel option) trail links the Riverside Woodbridge Park and play space to the Reg Bond Reserve with scenic river views to enjoy.
Pia’s Place, Whiteman Park: Choose your own adventure trail through the banksia woodlands and wetlands of Whiteman Park with many paved and accessible paths. We recommend starting at the all abilities nature playground, Pia’s Place.
Accessible Trails South of Perth
Canning River Regional Park, Wilson: Canning River Regional park features a variety of accessible trails connecting mature woodlands, creeks and paperbark forest, including the Banksia Hill Loop (1.5km) or the Butterflies, Birds and Bridges Trail (4km). We suggest starting at Kent Street Weir and choose the trail that best suits you and your family. You might like to also check out our Play Trail app for exploring the Kent Street Weir area.
Woodman Point Regional Park, Coogee: Walking and cycling paths connecting the beach, bush and parkland are ideal for prams, scooters and accessible exploration. We recommend exploring Ammo Jetty and following the paved path which meanders through coastal scrubland. The fenced nature reserve also offers a trail through tuart woodlands.
Connect on the Trail
Family time in nature creates space for conversation and connection. Download our free Talk N Walk app for fun conversation prompts and nature connection activity challenges to complete while you explore your next trail.
