Byford Hills Walk Trail

The Byford Hills Walk Trail, also called the Macora Walk Trail, is a 2.7 kilometre loop off Beenyup Road at Byford on the Darling Scarp, climbing through the hills for views over the suburb and out across the Perth plain. It is best after rain, when Macora Falls is actually flowing, and it is a genuinely steep, rocky little circuit rather than a suburban amble.

The walk and the dog setup

Rated moderate, it takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours over steep, rocky and gravelly sections, with the surface loose in places and slippery when wet, so sturdy footwear matters for both ends of the leash. Dogs are welcome but must stay on-lead the whole way, both to protect wildlife and for safety on the steep pitches. Bring your own bags, pick up after your dog, and stay on the marked track to keep off the older rock formations.

Water and terrain

There is a small free car park at the Beenyup Road trailhead but no listed toilets or water fountains, so carry enough water for you and your dog. Autumn to spring is the sweet spot; the middle of the day in summer is punishing given the limited shade on the north-facing slopes.

Max: kangaroos are common through here, the odd mountain biker or 4WD shares the track, and loose gravel is the real trip hazard. Keep the lead short on the steep climbs.

Getting there and parking

Drive to the Beenyup Road trailhead, about seven minutes from the main Beenyup Grove area. Public transport is limited; the nearest stations are at Armadale or Byford, both needing a short rideshare to the start.

When to go

Go on a weekday for a quieter track, or late afternoon for the views when the light is decent. After winter rain is when the falls run and the hillsides are at their best.

Close by with the dogs

For an off-lead run afterwards, Byford Bark Park Fenced Dog Park and The Glades Fenced Dog Park are both close by, and COFFIX Byford covers the coffee. To keep walking, the Jarrahdale Railway Trail is a flatter option further into the ranges.

More options are on the Western Australia dog walks guide and the Byford destinations page.