F.R. Berry Reserve Walk Trail

F.R. Berry Reserve sits on Reen Road in Gidgegannup, in the Perth Hills east of the city, where a wide vehicle track leads down to Wooroloo Brook and a set of granite waterfalls. Trails WA lists the walk at 2.7 km return and about an hour, while other trip reports run it out longer toward 3.5 km, so allow 45 to 60 minutes either way for an easy out and back.

The walk

The track is flat and wide for most of its length, an easy stroll for dogs of any fitness level, classed 2 to 3 with occasional steeper sections on gravel and uneven ground. Near the water it turns rocky and can get slippery, so slow down and watch your dog's footing on the approach to the falls.

Leash status

The City of Swan manages this reserve and dogs must stay on lead and on the designated trail at all times, a rule the council keeps to protect the wildflowers and native wildlife. The reserve covers 214 hectares of nature conservation land, and open fires are strictly prohibited throughout.

Pepsi: the rocky sections near the water get slick even when they look dry, so keep an eye on paws and take it slow rather than letting your dog bound ahead.

Water

Wooroloo Brook and its granite waterfalls are the main draw. Flow is best after rain and drops off noticeably over summer, so aim for the wetter months if you want the falls running. There is no potable water on site, so bring plenty for both of you.

Hazards

Bull ants and flies are both common in warm weather, so check your dog over after the walk, especially around paws and muzzle. Snakes are active in the warmer months in the Perth Hills bush.

Getting there and parking

It is about 40 to 50 minutes from Perth via Roe Highway, then Toodyay Road east, turning onto Reen Road and following it for about 8.5 km. The final stretch is a 2WD accessible dirt road, with a gravel parking area at the trailhead. Public transport is very limited, so driving is the practical option. Public toilets, picnic tables and free electric or wood barbecues are all near the entrance if you want to make a longer stop of it.

Close by with the dogs

Try Noble Falls for another nearby brook walk, or refuel afterwards at Noble Falls Tavern. More hills walks sit on the WA trails list and around Gidgegannup.

When to go

Mid autumn to late spring, from June to November, when the wildflowers are out and the waterfalls run at their best. Summer visits mean a quieter brook and hotter, buggier conditions. Good for owners after an easy scenic walk with a water reward at the end, provided their dog is happy on a lead throughout.