Mundaring State Forest wilderness guide
State Forest · WA

Mundaring State Forest

Mundaring State Forest is a large expanse of protected natural woodland in Western Australia, offering diverse outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching close to Perth.

State Forest22,0004+ Trails

Designation

State Forest

Total Wilderness Area

22,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Mundaring State Forest

Mundaring State Forest is a large expanse of protected natural woodland in Western Australia, offering diverse outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching close to Perth.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Mundaring State Forest is located in the Darling Range, approximately 40 kilometers east of Perth, Western Australia. The forest covers extensive areas of native jarrah and marri trees, providing important habitat for a variety of flora and fauna including numerous bird species and marsupials. The landscape features undulating hills, granite outcrops, seasonal creeks, and forested valleys, making it an appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the area has connections to early timber milling and railway developments supporting the region's timber industry. Today, Mundaring State Forest is a popular recreational area with several well-maintained trails for bushwalking and mountain biking, as well as picnic and camping spots. The forest is also known for the iconic Bibbulmun Track, which passes through parts of the area, linking it to a long-distance hiking experience that stretches across much of southwestern Australia. Nature lovers enjoy observing native birds, wildflowers, and small mammals, while photographers often capture the changing moods of the forest’s dense woodland and water features. The forest's proximity to Perth makes it accessible for day visits and weekend adventures. Its mixed-use zoning protects the environment while accommodating sustainable recreational use. Visitors appreciate the peaceful environment, variety of trails, and opportunities for both active pursuits and nature observation.

Field Guide · State Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mundaring State Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Bibbulmun Track segment through mature jarrah and marri forests✦ Granite outcrops offering panoramic views of the forest✦ Popular mountain biking circuits with varied terrain✦ Secluded camping areas along seasonal creeks
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mundaring State Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mundaring State Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Mundaring State Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Mundaring State Forest
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Mundaring State Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mundaring State Forest
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Mundaring State Forest
Park Recreation

Trail Running

Available in Mundaring State Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Mundaring State Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access with no permits required for day use; camping may require permits from local authorities

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Mundaring State Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Coopers Mill Campground

A quiet and rustic campground near a creek, offering a tranquil environment for tent camping.

Mundaring Weir Campground

Located near the historic weir, this campground features basic facilities and proximity to the lake for water-based activities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Mundaring State Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Sawyers Valley, Western Australia
⌖ 1.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sawyers Valley, Western Australia

Sawyers Valley is a quiet town in the Perth Hills that offers easy access to hiking, mountain biking, and paddling amid native jarrah forests. Perfect for travelers seeking peaceful outdoor adventures away from crowds.

Autumn to Spring
Explore Town
Mundaring, Western Australia
⌖ 3.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mundaring, Western Australia

Mundaring, in the Western Australia Perth Hills, offers stunning trails for hiking, biking, and paddling amid protected forests and a historic dam. Ideal from autumn to spring, it’s a refreshing outdoor escape close to Perth.

Autumn to Spring
Explore Town
Glen Forrest, Western Australia
⌖ 6.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Glen Forrest, Western Australia

Glen Forrest is a tranquil town on the edge of Perth Hills, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching. Explore forest trails in John Forrest National Park and enjoy outdoor picnics amid native bushland.

Autumn and Spring
Explore Town
Darlington, Western Australia
⌖ 8.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Darlington, Western Australia

Darlington is a quiet WA hillside town offering peaceful forest hikes, mountain biking trails, and scenic paddling on the Swan River. Ideal for outdoor lovers wanting calm nature escapes just outside Perth.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Gidgegannup, Western Australia
⌖ 8.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gidgegannup, Western Australia

Gidgegannup offers tranquil bush settings just outside Perth, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching. With rolling hills and spacious nature reserves, it’s an ideal escape for outdoor lovers seeking peaceful rural landscapes.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Kalamunda, Western Australia
⌖ 10.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kalamunda, Western Australia

Kalamunda offers outdoor lovers lush forest trails, amazing waterfalls, and scenic lookouts just east of Perth. Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching with charming town amenities nearby.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Mundaring State Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Distil Your Own: A Hands‑On Gin Masterclass in Herne Hill
ADVEXPEDITION
Herne Hill, Western Australia
DistilleryADV Bookable

Distil Your Own: A Hands‑On Gin Masterclass in Herne Hill

A guided, small-group workshop where you select botanicals, run an individual pot still and leave with a personalized bottle of gin — useful for anyone wanting a grounded, practical introduction to craft distilling.

DistilleryPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Three Days of Pink Salt, Coastal Limestone and a Lobster Dinner
ADVEXPEDITION
Gosnells, Western Australia
Guided TourADV Bookable

Three Days of Pink Salt, Coastal Limestone and a Lobster Dinner

A guided 3-day tour from Perth that links the surreal Pink Lake with Margaret River country, The Pinnacles and Kalbarri National Park—useful for planning logistics, gear and what to expect.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip