Berry Walk Trail Waterfall (8)

Berry Walk Trail runs through F.R. Berry Reserve in Gidgegannup, a jarrah and marri walk that follows Wooroloo Brook out to a red rock outcrop and a seasonal waterfall. Dogs on lead are welcome, the reserve has picnic facilities at the trailhead, and the whole outing sits about 45 minutes northeast of Perth, which makes it a proper half-day dog trip rather than a quick suburb lap.

The walk

Trails WA lists it as about 2.7km one way, so budget a 5.4km return with short steep hills and rocky steps along the way. It suits dogs comfortable on uneven ground; take it steady on the rock sections near the falls. The payoff is the russet-red granite where the brook cascades, and the rock pools that form after good rain.

Leash status and water

Dogs are allowed on lead, which most visitors keep on anyway given the footing and the wildlife. The brook pools near the falls in the wetter months and makes a fine dog paddle, but it runs low or dry over summer, so bring your own water regardless and carry a bowl.

Watch-outs

Dieback disease has been recorded in the park, so stay on the formed trail and, if you are heading to another bushland area afterwards, spray boots and paws with a diluted methylated spirits solution to avoid spreading it. Fires are not permitted at any time of year, and the red rock gets slick when wet, so keep the dog clear of the edges after rain.

Pepsi: time it for a week after decent rain. A dry-season trickle is pleasant; a winter flow turns the red rock section into the whole reason you came.

Getting there and parking

From Perth, head northeast on Great Eastern Highway onto Toodyay Road toward Gidgegannup, then turn onto Reen Road and follow it about 8.5km to the reserve signage. Gravel parking sits at the trailhead alongside free electric barbecues and public toilets, handy for a picnic around the walk. There is no public transport out this way.

When to go and what is nearby

Mid-autumn to late spring is the window, with winter and spring delivering the best flow and wildflowers. Weekday mornings or an early weekend start keep the small carpark and picnic spots free. Back towards Toodyay Road, Noble Falls offers an easier brook-side loop, and the Noble Falls Tavern takes leashed dogs in its beer garden for a post-walk counter meal.

More Perth Hills walks are on the Western Australia dog friendly trails guide and the Gidgegannup destinations page.