There’s a WA park for everyone — find yours.
Want more motivation to get off the couch and into the Western Australian wilderness? Start by discovering what you love. Uncovering your adventure style, and finding the perfect place to unleash it, is the easiest way to start having more fun in WA Parks. Warning: this may result in a serious addiction to the outdoors.
Getting a hobby and improving your headspace
We already know that being in nature makes us happier. You can seriously boost your endorphins by sitting under a tree. Did you know that you can be even happier by simply doing the things you love? According to the Department of Health, “spending time on an activity that you enjoy can improve your mental health and wellbeing. Research shows that people with hobbies are less likely to suffer from stress, low mood, and depression. Activities that get you out and about can make you feel happier and more relaxed”. The more you enjoy something, the more likely you are to do it again and build a healthy habit. Are you ready to discover your adventure style and start getting out there?
Murchison River, Kalbarri National Park, Tourism WA
Underwater Explorer
If you’re an Underwater Explorer, you’ll love spending time in or on the water. Swimming, diving, kayaking, snorkelling, boating or floating — these are some of your favourite activities. You always make sure there’s somewhere to splash out on an adventure, otherwise what’s the point? And, you never leave home without your swimwear or one of your many water toys.
If you’re an Underwater Explorer you’ll love Kalbarri National Park. Famous for its winding Murchison River, soaring red sea cliffs and deep gorges. It’s the place for aquatic fun with swimming, canoeing and white water rafting available. Just outside of the park on Kalbarri’s beaches you can surf, snorkel and splash.
Stirling Range National Park, Tourism WA
Adventure Lover
If you’re an Adventure Lover, your hobby isn’t limited to just one thing. Instead you focus on conquering any physical challenge outdoors. Relaxing by a campfire is not for you (unless it’s after a strenuous multi-day hike). You seek out places and activities where you can push your endurance and courage to the limit. You’re excited to try new things especially if they go really, really fast.
If you’re an Adventure Lover you’ll love Wellington National Park. This park is a one-stop shop for outdoor expeditions. Explore over 40km of mountain biking trails or strap in and go 4-wheel driving. For those who love to scale great heights, you can rock-climb up a sheer granite rock face at the Wellington Dam and enjoy the views as you abseil down. There are multi-day trails to traverse, rapids to face and crystal-clear pools to dive in to. Only 2.5 hours from Perth, it’s the perfect quick getaway for busy people.
Slow and Steady Traveller
If you’re a Slow and Steady Traveller, you’ll believe the journey is just as important as the destination. You’re the kind of person who’ll stop to smell the Western Australian wildflowers. You’ll explore small towns, talk to the locals and make sure there’s always time in your day to just relax and do absolutely nothing. You never leave home without your camp chair and you’re always looking for the best spot to recline.
If you’re a Slow and Steady Traveller, you’ll love Cape Range National Park. This remote national park is as quiet as it is beautiful. Spend your days spotting wildlife, wildflowers, hiking and floating in the pristine ocean. Situated near Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef, this park has the added bonus of being far away so there’s lots to see along the way.
Everyday Explorer
If you’re an Everyday Explorer, you’ll enjoy the great outdoors almost every day of the week. You’re familiar with and love exploring the urban and national parks near your home. You enjoy activities that are easy to fit into a busy life. Short hikes, swimming or cycling is high on your agenda. You don’t usually go away on long trips in WA. Weekend getaways, day trips or early morning expeditions are your style.
If you’re an Everyday Explorer, you’ll love Kings Park. This natural wonderland is one of the most beautiful inner-city parks in the world. Its central location and public transport access make it an easy choice for regular visits.
Stirling Range National Park, Tourism WA
Happy Hiker
If you’re a Happy Hiker, you’ll love the pace and physical challenge of walking. You’ll love spotting flora, fauna and resting under the shade of a giant Karri tree. You’re great at reading maps and enjoy scaling new heights. You don’t mind sleeping under the stars and you’re able to carry a 15-kilogram backpack with ease.
If you’re a Happy Hiker, you’ll love Stirling Range National Park. This is the only major mountain range in southern Western Australia. Its lush towering peaks are a mecca for bushwalkers, with half, full or multi-day hikes available. Just make sure you take sturdy footwear, warm clothing and sun protection — these walks are not for the faint of heart.
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Spring into Parks is a WA Parks Foundation initiative supported by Lotterywest.
