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 on a sealed shared path that suits prams, wheelchairs and dogs of any age. The deciding fact for 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 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.

Leash status

The City of Bayswater requires dogs on lead except within signed designated off-lead areas, and you must carry a lead even near an off-lead zone. 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. The exception is Riverside Gardens on the Bayswater side, where dogs can run off-lead and swim. Council buffers also apply: leashed within 20 metres of a playground and 5 metres of a car park, and pick up after your dog.

Max: Give the Eric Singleton Bird Sanctuary a wide berth on the map before you set off. It is an easy stretch to wander into by accident if you are following the water's edge.

Water and terrain

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. Mosquitoes breed in the wetland margins, so pack repellent if walking later in the day.

Getting there and parking

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.

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.

While you're out there

The Riverside Gardens Dog Beach is the off-lead swim zone mid loop, and Ascot Park Fenced Dog Park adds a fenced option on the Ascot side. Refuel at Swalk Cafe, or extend the walk with the Maylands Peninsular Loop further along the river. The WA trails guide and Ascot destination page list more nearby.