Manea Park Walking Trail

Manea Park Walking Trail in College Grove sits within the Kalgulup Regional Park system on Bunbury's southern edge, offering 3.6km to 5km of well-marked bushland tracks through jarrah and marri woodland. It is a strictly on-lead walk, a proper regional bushwalk with seasonal wildflowers rather than a manicured park stroll.

Leash status

Dogs must remain on leash for the entire walk, and this is non-negotiable bushland: kangaroos appear suddenly on the trail, and bobtail lizards bask on the path surface in warmer months, so keep your dog close when they cross. Waste bags are provided at the entrance, but bring your own backup, and note that bins are not positioned at the furthest points of the loop.

Max: a roo came through the scrub mid-loop and every leashed dog handled it fine. Off-lead would have been chaos.

Water and terrain

There are no water fountains and no toilets on the trails, so bring water for both of you, especially in the warmer months. Terrain runs from packed earth to gravel, with shaded benches at intervals for a breather. Trails can turn muddy after winter rain, so give them a day or two to dry out before attempting the full loop.

The walk

The interconnected paths cover 3.6km to 5km depending on your route, with the Pultenaea Loop the clear favourite among regulars. From August through November the wildflower display shifts week to week, bringing colour and scent that keeps the walk interesting for repeat visitors, including native orchids in good seasons.

Getting there and parking

The park sits off Bussell Highway in College Grove. Turn onto Manea Park Road or Brittain Road to reach the gravel parking near the entrance. Bunbury bus services run nearby, but a car is the practical choice for most visitors, particularly with a dog and boot space for muddy towels and water.

When to go

Early mornings and late afternoons are the quietest windows, with softer light and more active wildlife. Wildflower season from August to November draws heavier foot traffic, and weekends are consistently busier. If you want solitude, head for the outer loops where fewer people venture, even on a Saturday.

Close by with the dogs

Post-walk, Dome Cafe Bunbury Koombana Bay has waterfront outdoor tables and Little Spencer Coffee Co does solid coffee and baked goods. For off-lead time, the Lions Park Fenced Dog Park in Withers is the closest secure run.

More options are on the WA trails list or in the College Grove guide.