Bells Rapids Park — Attraction in Brigadoon

In October I met with friends, old and new, to try a new route around the Bells Rapids. We parked in the middle parking area (a gravel patch) close to the public toilet and headed east to the footbridge, a common target for everyone to view the white water. One part of the group went uphill following the traditional hilly but short walk while the rest of us set out to find the loop trail on the north side of the rapids, to the west, with the goal to bring us back to the cars along the road inward, The track was clear and easy to follow, with only a few spots requiring all fours to avoid any falls or slips as we moved up to the better pathway. Most of us carried a bottle of water but the air was fresh and the skies were clear. No one was left dehydrated. Once we set a pace, I felt warm glow but it wasn't strenuous. We followed the path until it widened out and soon had farmland to the north, on our right and the river turning away from us on the south/ left.. After a good stretch along the boundary fences we concluded that if there is a way to cross the river, that it may be a significant way ahead. The decision was to return the way we had come. The group began to stretch out at this point and some of us with longer legs enjoyed the clear level path. The water was flowing very quickly and all the spring flowers were out for attention. We saw many dragonflies, butterflies, the obligatory ants as well as a variety of birds. The kookaburras were the dominant sound through the valley interrupted occasionally by a distant car moving quickly on the high gravel roads. Upon our return to the walk bridge, we met with the last of the other group coming down a very slippery slope, making me pleased to have taken the sunny flatter walk. I wore proper hiking boots for comfort and support however most people wore sand shes and were equally as comfortable. We would not have walked more than five or six kilometres. I highly recommend the area, with plenty of room for parking large groups of vehicles. It gets dusty - so please think of slowing down as you enter the picnic area to save other people from wearing your dust. We could also see other tracks that were not suggested on our maps, which teased us with the opportunity of new discoveries. We all vowed to return to find our...

Gone are the days of coming here for a quiet day out - it's super popular now. If the weather is fine (any season) then there's people & dogs everywhere! When you reach the end of Cathedral ave there's area for parking, otherwise continue over the 'crest' but take it SLOW 'cos it's single lane & with a steep drop off the side there's no room for dodging cars coming too fast back up from the rapids - you just have to take turns (generally if you get to the top of the crest any cars coming the other way near the bottom will just pull aside & wait for you, or if someone is partway up there's just enough room for you to carefully pull aside to give them room). Once you're over the crest you're virtually there - just continue 'til you reach the parking (all gravel no bitumen by this point). Its a top spot for picnics (just BYO chairs/blankets/BBQ etc), there's often a Mr Whippy parked near the toilet block, go for a swim (depending on water levels/temp), go for walks, look for wildflowers/birds/fungi... best of all is the dogs! Probably don't come here if you don't like dogs 'cos everyone brings them & they're mostly off lead having a ball. I always bring my rubbish bag & pick up as much trash as I can because sadly - despite the abundance of bins around - there is loads of it. The number of empty cans/bottle/drinks (eg coffee cups) just lazily tossed off the edge of the path by people going for a short walk is incredible, & dog poo bags!... don't pick up your dog's poop then casually toss the bag! Hang onto it until you get back to the...

Bells Rapids is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. Located in the picturesque Swan Valley, this tranquil oasis is known for its stunning views, flowing rapids, and peaceful walking trails.

The Bells Rapids Bridge offers a fantastic vantage point to watch the Swan River rush over rocks, especially during winter or after heavy rains when the rapids are at their most impressive. It’s also a great spot for photography. The surrounding landscape, with its rocky outcrops and bushland, is breathtaking in any season.

The walking trails cater to all levels of fitness. The River Walk is an easy trail that stays close to the water, while the Goat Trail is more challenging, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the valley. Both trails are well-marked, and you’re likely to encounter kangaroos and an array of birdlife along the way.

Bells Rapids is also a favorite spot for picnics. There are shaded areas and plenty of open space to lay down a blanket and enjoy the scenery.

Things to keep in mind: • There are no cafes or shops on-site, so pack your snacks and water. • Parking can be limited during peak times, especially on weekends. • The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, a place to hike, or a stunning backdrop for photos, Bells Rapids delivers. It’s a perfect day trip for families, couples, or solo adventurers.

Here are just a few...