John Forrest National Park — Attraction in Hovea

Better than I expected. Lots of cool nature things to look at and well maintained trails to explore for walkers and cyclists alike. Saw some kangaroos just chilling too for a bit in the main area before they went back into hiding. For most people the shorter loops accessible from the main carpark will be enough as well as the Swan View Tunnel which is cool to walk through. The Glen Brook Dam Loop is the most picturesque I think and not that challenging of a walk. Also did the shorter Eagle View Loop, the lookout is nothing special but the walk alone is nice, though it's a lot longer and has a lot of changes in elevation along the way. Remarkably didn't walk into a single cobweb in several hours and didn't see another person along the Eagle View trail unlike the others. Guess it was too hot for the spiders or something. The waterfalls were not running and there weren't that many wildflowers as it's January so will probably go back in winter/spring after it has rained. If you don't want to pay the rather steep $17 parking fee and don't mind walking a little you can just enter from the west side and go through the tunnel. If you want to see all the sights you would be walking this far anyway more or less. There are 2 free carparks there and there's also a bus that runs by about 100m away which goes back to...

John Forrest National Park offers a refreshing escape from the daily grind, just a short drive from Perth. As Western Australia's first national park, it beautifully preserves both natural splendour and historical charm. The heritage-listed railway tunnel is a standout—an impressive feat of early engineering that transports visitors back in time while framing some incredible photo opportunities.

The park caters to a range of interests: whether you're up for a scenic hike, a relaxed picnic with family, or a spontaneous day of adventure, it's an ideal setting. Majestic eucalyptus trees, native wildlife, and seasonal wildflowers provide a vibrant backdrop for exploration. The walking trails are well-marked, offering something for both casual walkers and more seasoned bushwalkers.

John Forrest is more than just a park—it's a place to reconnect with nature, enjoy a bit of history, and recharge away from the city buzz. A must-visit for locals and...

Today we followed the John Forrest Wildflower Walk. It is a Class 3 walk trail of about 5km. The start is at the Rangers Office parking lot. There is a very significant amount of signage along the trail which makes it very easy to follow. Even now at the end of season, there were still a lot of wildflowers to be seen. Just take a lot of breaks and enjoy the views and the sound of the birds. We walked the trail in a clockwise direction which makes it easier for the ascending and descending parts of the trail. At the end is a great view of the Hovea Falls. A very enjoyable, pleasant walk I might say. Don't forget there is a $17 entrance fee per car or one can obtain a yearly parkpass for access to allmost every park in WA (pensioner discount as well). There are no dogs alowed and no bikes at this trail (at current, plans for bike tracks in the...