Wildflower Wander | John Forrest National Park

Every spring, Western Australia's bushland bursts into colour as the Noongar seasons of Djilba and Kambarang awaken the Perth Hills with an incredible display of native wildflowers.

Join us for a relaxed guided hike through Perth's oldest national park, where we'll slow the pace, look a little closer and discover the remarkable diversity of wildflowers that thrive in this unique landscape. Along the way, we'll pause to appreciate the smaller details so often missed - delicate orchids, vibrant everlastings, buzzing native bees and the fascinating relationships that make our bushland so extraordinary.

John Forrest National Park provides the perfect backdrop for this seasonal adventure, renowned for its diverse forest habitats, seasonal waterfalls and one of the Perth Hills' finest displays of spring wildflowers. Every visit is different - some weeks the orchids steal the show, while others it's the wattles, featherflowers, everlastings, or banksias. Nature sets the timetable, making each Wildflower Wander a unique opportunity to discover the remarkable botanical diversity of the Perth Hills.

Starting and finishing at the John Forrest National Park Ranger Station, we will hike through a surprising variety of landscapes, from colourful heathlands to open wandoo woodland and towering jarrah and marri forest. The trail also visits the tranquil Hovea Falls, where, following good winter rainfall, Hovea Brook tumbles over weathered granite to create a series of picturesque cascades. Even when the water is only trickling, the surrounding granite boulders, moss-covered rocks and peaceful forest provide a beautiful place to pause.

As we explore, your experienced Off The Beaten Track WA guide will share fascinating insights into the park's geology, ecology, native wildlife, historical trails and the incredible wildflowers that make this one of the best times of year to visit.

We'll also pause along the trail to enjoy our signature morning tea featuring native-inspired treats and botanical tea, taking time to connect, recharge and simply soak up the beauty of the season.

More than just a hike, this is an opportunity to slow down, discover something new and share the experience with a group of people who appreciate the simple joy of spending time in nature.

Come and experience John Forrest National Park in bloom.

Includes: 

• 7km scenic hike with OTBT’s expert local guides
• Nutritious native-inspired morning tea with botanical tea
• Complimentary use of hiking poles & guidance for extra support
• Sunscreen & insect repellent provided for your comfort
• Photo stops at epic viewpoints
• Access to all experience photos via our private OTBT Connect Facebook group
• Opportunities to discover and photograph WA’s unique flora & encounter native wildlife

Fitness level: Total hike distance is 7kms, the terrain is graded as level 3 terrain. We recommend sturdy shoes with good grip. The trail is achievable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness but no hiking experience is necessary. We will be travelling at a slower pace so we can stop to smell the wildflowers.

What to Bring? 

• Backpack with 2-3L of water
• Camera
• Personal first aid/medications
• Hat, sunscreen & insect repellent
• Sturdy hiking or walking shoes
• Raincoat & warm layer
• A sense of adventure & a big smile!

Meeting Point: John Forrest National Park Ranger Station (Google map). Toilets on site. Please aim to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt departure. Please note that National Park Entry Fees apply. 

National Park Passes: You can purchase a Day Pass on arrival at the main entry booth via the automated ticket machine (Visa / MC). Day rates are $17 per standard private vehicle (or $10 per vehicle for concession holders) for up to 12 people. You can also buy a Multi-day or Annual park pass online HERE - which will need to be printed and displayed in your vehicle windscreen. (N.B. RAC members in WA get 50% off digital Annual All Parks Passes - Visit the Member Benefits page.)

Off The Beaten Track WA is an award-winning, fully accredited Western Australian tourism business, delivering high-quality guided hiking and adventure experiences. Our trained Lead Guides and Support Guides are there to support you every step of the way, carrying two-way communication devices and a personal location beacon when mobile coverage is limited. Fully licensed and insured, we focus on creating safe, well-run and genuinely memorable experience out on the trail.