Your Guide to the Lesmurdie Falls National Park Hike

Lesmurdie Falls National Park is a beautiful spot in the Perth Hills. Located within Mundy Regional Park, the site is home to Lesmurdie Falls, one of Perth’s most spectacular waterfalls. Lookout points are scattered throughout the park and feature stunning, sweeping views over the Darling Range escarpment, swan coastal plains and the city.  

During spring, visitors will have the chance to spot many species of colourful wildflowers like candle cranberry, blue fairy orchids and pepper flowers. Hikers will also have the opportunity to hike under Jarrah, Marri and Wandoo Trees. 

Getting there  

This national park is just 30 minutes from the Perth CDB, this is a great location for hikers wishing to not venture too far from the city. 

The main access point for the Lesmurdie Falls trails is via the Lesmurdie Falls Car Park, which is off Falls Road. Toilets and some accessible paths are located close to this entrance. The falls can also be accessed from the lower level picnic area, which can be reached from the road from Palm Terrace

There are a range of Lesmurdie Falls walk trails to suit a variety of fitness levels.  Here’s all the info you need on the 5 Lesmurdie Falls walk trails.

The Valley Loop Trail 

The Valley Loop is the longest of the trails at 3km, and in my opinion the best of the lot! Starting from the carpark and heading in the left direction, hikers will find themselves walking slightly downhill. 

There are a couple of spectacular lookouts close to the start. The Head of the Falls Lookout is first, giving stunning sweeping valley views with the city way off in the distance. This is a fantastic spot to enjoy a Perth sunset. 

The trail then takes hikers down to Lesmurdie Brook, where hikers can decide to take a quick detour onto the Foot of the Falls Trail to marvel at the base of the waterfall. Continuing back along the Valley Loop Trail, walkers will start ascending back up towards the carpark, but there are plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery along the way!

Length  

The Lesmurdie Falls Valley Loop trail is 3km return.

Duration 

Set aside 2 hours to complete The Valley Loop Trail. 

Difficulty 

The Valley Loop Trail is a Class 3 trail, suitable for most ages and fitness levels, however, there may be steep sections and loose surfaces so some hiking experience is recommended. 

The Foot of the Falls Trail 

As mentioned above, The Foot of the Falls Trail can be accessed from the Valley Loop Trail, but it originates from the lower Palm Terrace Park entry. It’s a 2km return hike, which follows the Lesmurdie Brook to the foot of the falls. 

Towards the end, this trail splits off in two, with the right branch taking hikers to the Lions Lookout point. 

The shady falls at the end of the trail is the perfect spot to stop for a well-deserved picnic lunch. 

Length  

The Foot of the Falls Trail in 2km return.

Duration 

Hikers should allow 1 hour to complete The Foot of the Falls Trail, but this one is best experienced in conjunction with the longer trails. 

Difficulty 

The Foot of the Falls trail is classified as Class 3. Some hiking experience is recommended as there may be loose surfaces or steep sections. 

The Shoulder Trail 

The relatively short shoulder trail again begins from Falls Road car park and takes visitors past spectacular views of the lower face of the falls and across the coastal plains. 

Length  

The Shoulder Trail is 1.5km return.

Duration 

Set 1 hour aside to complete The Shoulder Trail

Difficulty 

The Shoulder Trail is Class 3 difficulty – some hiking experience is recommended 

Lesmurdie Brook Loop

The Lesmurdie Brook Loop is a relatively easy one which begins at the Falls Road carpark. It’s a much easier walk that passes upstream along the picturesque Lesmurdie Brook. 

Length  

The Lesmurdie Brook Loop is a 1.5km loop.

Duration 

The Lesmurdie Brook Loop will take hikers around 1 hour to complete.

Difficulty 

The Lesmurdie Brook loop is classified as an easier Class 2. This one doesn’t require much previous hiking experience and most of the surface is compact and slopes are gentle, it’s a great one to do with the kids. 

The Falls Trail 

Another easier option is the short Falls Trail, great for the kids. This trail provides great views of the foothills, the sweeping coastal plain, and the city off in the distance. There are lookout spots along this trail to reward hikers.  

Length  

The Falls Trail is a short and sweet 640m return walk.

Duration 

The Falls Trail will take around 45 minutes to complete.

Difficulty 

The Falls Trail is a Class 2 Hike, suitable for less experienced hikers and children. 

Safety 

Keep general hiking safety in mind before setting out on a Lesmurdie Falls adventure! 

There’s no drinking water in the park so bring your own. Pack 3-4 litres per person and remember to drink – especially in winter when it’s cooler. 

Stay sun-smart on your hike. Wear sunscreen and long sleeves. Remember to pack a hat and sunglasses. Some of the upper areas are lacking shade and can be super hot, even outside of the summer months. Sunstroke is no fun!

Don’t be a silly billy and venture off path, there are plenty of steep and loose sections throughout the park which can be quite dangerous. 

Best time to visit  

The best time to visit Lesmurdie Falls National Park is in spring when the water is flowing. This is a popular spot so arrive early if you want to hike in peace.  

Wildflower season is September – November. Visitors during this time will be lucky enough to witness the hills come alive with spectacular colour as the many flower species bloom. Lesmurdie Falls National Park is one of the best spots close to the city to check out the wildflowers.

During summer months the waterfall can dry up completely as temperatures soar. It can be difficult to find shade cover on parts of the trails surrounded by shrubbery – be prepared with sun protection and extra drinking water.  

Facilities and accessibility  

Lesmurdie Falls National Park has a picnic area with shaded tables and bins. There is a public toilet. But be aware that there is no drinking water in the area so hikers should carry their own.  

The picnic area and toilets are accessible by wheelchair; however the trails are mostly comprised of loose dirt and gravel and can be quite steep.  

Other info  

Dogs 

You can bring your furry mate to this one! At Lesmurdie Falls dogs are allowed if they are on lead. 

Swimming 

The falls do not flow enough to form a pool, so there is no swimming spot, but there’s enough water to dip your feet in and cool off. 

Entry fees 

Entry to Lesmurdie Falls National Park is free, making it a fantastic option for a cheap day out. 

Things to do after your Lesmurdie Falls hike

There’s plenty to do and see after a big morning hike! A trip to nearby Kalamunda will not disappoint. 

Explore Kalamunda

Kalamunda is a short drive away and is the perfect place to explore after your hike. Kalamunda is a beautiful and historical village-style town that offers plenty of cultural activities, specialty shopping and outdoor activities. 

Museum lovers should check out the Kalamunda History Village, where they can take a glimpse at what life was like for Hill’s residents in the early years. Explore heritage buildings and check out displays on the industries that once thrived here.

If you’re lucky enough to be out and about during the first Saturday of the month, you can hit up the Kalamunda Artisan Market. It features the finest growers and makers from across the state. Fashion, candles, jewellery, paintings, furniture, tasty bites and fresh produce – it’s all here. 

The Kalamunda Farmers Market runs more regularly, each Sunday from 8 a.m. Here you can grab your fruit and veggies and a tasty treat!  

Last words on the Lesmurdie Falls hike

Lesmurdie Falls is a great spot for a bush walk on your next Perth weekend. Its proximity to the city, impressive sweeping views and flowing water never fail to impress. I hope you’ll join me in exploring Lesmurdie Falls sometime soon!

If you’re after more great Perth outdoor activities why not check out Bells Rapids, Lesueur National Park or Walyunga National Park? Or check out my guide to the ultimate Perth picnic for some more beautiful Perth sights. For more Perth fitness ideas check out the 5 best pregnancy Pilates classes. If you’re after some great shopping, why not head to Fremantle Markets?

Lesmurdie Falls National Park Hike FAQ

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