Bayswater and Ascot River Trails

Bayswater and Ascot River Trails run 5.8 km in a flat loop along the Swan River, linking Bayswater and Ascot with a sealed shared path that suits prams, wheelchairs and dogs of any age. The deciding fact for dog owners: it is on-lead for almost the whole loop, with one signed off-lead pocket at Riverside Gardens.

The walk. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours at an easy pace on a sealed, level, all-abilities path shared by walkers and cyclists. Along the way you pass Riverside Gardens, cross Garratt Road Bridge and Redcliffe Bridge, skirt Kuljak Island and get open views across to Ascot Racecourse.

The rules. The City of Bayswater requires dogs on lead except within signed designated off-lead areas. Leads stay on for the main trail, both bridges and through Baigup Wetland Reserve. Dogs are not permitted in the Eric Singleton Bird Sanctuary at any time, on or off lead, a firm no-go zone. The exception is Riverside Gardens on the Bayswater side, where dogs can run off-lead, including swimming. Keep dogs leashed within 20 metres of a playground and 5 metres of a car park, and clean up after your dog.

Water. The river here is tidal, and high tide gives dogs a better swim at Riverside Gardens. In quieter, stiller sections the water can turn acidic and irritate skin, so keep dogs from drinking or lingering in stagnant patches away from the main swim spot. See Riverside Gardens Dog Beach for the off-lead swim area, or Riverside Gardens Dog Exercise Area and Ascot Park Fenced Dog Park for a fenced run.

Hazards. Mosquitoes can be troublesome near Garvey Park and the wetlands in late afternoon, so pack repellent if walking later in the day.

Getting there. Park at A.P. Hinds Reserve on Milne Street or Riverside Gardens on the Bayswater side, or Garvey Park off Fauntleroy Avenue on the Ascot side. Bayswater Train Station is a short walk from the trail start, and buses along Great Eastern Highway serve Garvey Park. Toilets, picnic tables and electric barbecues are at both Hinds Reserve and Riverside Gardens.

Nearby with the dogs. Refuel at The Oarhouse, or extend the walk with the Maylands Peninsular Loop further along the Swan.

When to go. Weekends, especially mornings, draw the biggest crowds, so aim for before 9am or a weekday for the path to yourself. Good for seniors and nervous swimmers alike, given the flat surface and the calm swim spot at Riverside Gardens.

Sources

• City of Bayswater - dog exercise areas policy · engage.bayswater.wa.gov.au

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