Don Shepherd Nature Reserve Trail

The short version. The Don Shepherd Nature Reserve Trail is a flat, roughly 1km walk through Banksia, jarrah and marri woodland off Karnup Road in Baldivis. It connects with the adjoining Nyoongar Trail to make a gentle 1.6km loop, and it is an easy on-leash bush walk rather than a run-off-the-energy destination.

The rules. Dogs are welcome but must stay on-leash the whole way, since this is a remnant-vegetation reserve with native fauna. Keep to the formed path to protect the orchids and understorey, and carry your waste out because there are no bins on the trail itself.

The walk. A flat, well-formed path of crushed limestone and natural earth, easy underfoot and doable in 30 minutes to an hour at a stroll. Spring is the standout, with wildflowers and orchids through the woodland. Watch for snakes in the warmer months and keep your dog close on the track.

Getting there. Free gravel parking sits off Karnup Road at the trailhead, with basic picnic facilities nearby. There is effectively no public transport to the entrance, so drive; it is about 10 minutes from central Baldivis. Take care crossing Karnup Road on foot.

When to go. Weekday mid-mornings and early afternoons are quietest; weekend mornings draw walkers and photographers. There is little shade in stretches, so bring water for both of you on a warm day. Good for a calm sniff-and-amble rather than a big off-leash burn. Pair it with a coffee at Oscar's Bakery back in town.

Sources

• Nyoongar & Don Shepherd Nature Trail, Rockingham · trailswa.com.au
• Don Shepherd Nature Reserve and Nyoongar Trail · visitrockingham.com.au
• Pets in parks | Explore Parks WA · exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.