The first step in your hiking journey
Perth is one of the most naturally rich cities in the world. We really are surrounded by so much nature that’s just waiting to be explored, and there’s no better way to see it than on a hike. So why not get the family together or a group of your best mates and hit the trail. Here are some tips on how to get started.
What to Wear
Whether long hike or short you don’t need much. It’s best to begin with some basics then you can always build them up over time. With so many great brands and gadgets out there, it’s an exciting past time to get in to.
Fabric-wise just keep it light. We recommend sticking to activewear that’s got good coverage to protect from the sun but is still airy and breathable. Most importantly find yourself a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the sun.
The right shoes and even more importantly socks are also essential. You can either pull out a pair of reliable sneakers from the back of the closet or head to your local hiking store and get fitted with a new pair. Just make sure your feet feel snug and comfortable in whatever you choose to wear.
Pre hiking tip: make sure you’ve broken your shoes in before jumping straight into an overnight hike.
What to bring
Backpack:
Your backpack just needs to be comfortable and have room to pack enough food and water depending on the length of your hike. You can use one from home or if you feel like upgrading there are some great hiking backpacks out there. When picking out a new backpack the most important features is the adjustable straps. Getting your pack to sit just right on your back is key. Like your shoes, testing your backpack beforehand could save you a lot of trouble on the trail.
Z Bend River Trail, Kalbarri National Park | credit: Tourism Western Australia
Water:
Make sure to always carry a bottle of water with you. You can even invest in a camel pack if you’d like to integrate it into your backpack. Plenty of water is crucial on any hike, short or small. Always remember to stay hydrated with small, continuous sips.
Food:
The next most important thing is food. Even if you’re on the trail for only a couple of hours, you’ll be burning more energy than normal and need to top it up with the appropriate fuel to keep you going. It’s best to eat small, healthy snacks continuously throughout the hike.
First Aid:
A first aid kit is a definite hiking essential. There are some great compact ones on offer at most hiking stores that won’t weigh you down or take up too much room in your pack.
Bibbulmun for Beginners
The Bibbulmun Track runs from Perth to Albany with plenty of great beginner sections that are perfect for a practice hike. The scenery is also stunning, with the track winding its way through some of the South West’s most beautiful coastlines and forests. The distance between huts is around 8kms, with plenty of entry and exit points easily accessible from the main roads that connect nearby settlements. Join one of WA Park’s friendly guides on our Bibbulmun for Beginners hike this October. It’s packed full of tips and tricks with everything you need to begin your hiking adventure.
Bibbulmun Track | credit: Tourism Western Australia
Get Practicing at Bold Park
Bold Park’s inner-urban bushland is full of great beginner walks that are perfect for testing out new shoes or a pack. Get out there and enjoy the huge variety of flora and fauna Bold Park has to offer with over 1000 native and non-native species. With views from the top of Reabold Hill of the CBD and foothills beyond, take a moment to pause and enjoy all this rich inner-city sanctuary has to offer.
Soak up the scenery along the Bells Rapid trail
Bells Rapids is another easy trail that is only a short drive from the city located in Perth’s picturesque Swan River region. This easy 5.5km track offers great views of the Bells Rapids and countryside beyond with regular grey kangaroo spotting and a huge variety of local birdlife to watch out for. Start the walk from Cathedral Avenue then return a mere hour and a half later if not sooner, depending on whether you’re a stroller or a speed walker.
Sign up to the WA Parks Foundation newsletter and visit our #springintoparks calendar to find more great hiking expeditions and courses being run in your local area.
