Luke Pen Walk

Luke Pen Walk follows the Kalgan River out of Lower Kalgan on East Bank Road, a roughly 11 km return route (some sources list it as 9-12 km depending on where you start and finish) past marri trees, vineyards and river pasture. Dogs are welcome on lead, and it is quiet enough on a weekday morning that you will mostly have the river to yourselves.

The walk. Grade 3, with a few short steep sections and steps, so it suits a dog with reasonable fitness rather than a puppy or an older dog with joint trouble. Allow two to four hours for the full return trip. Several small footbridges cross the creeks along the way, and a bird-shaped shelter sits about 120 metres in if you need a break early.

Leash status. Dogs must stay on lead for the whole walk, both for wildlife (the trail passes through bird habitat along the river) and because sections run close to farm pasture. Bring bags and carry out any waste.

Water. The Kalgan River runs alongside much of the route, so there is water to look at, but no taps or bubblers on the trail itself. Carry enough for both of you, especially in warmer months.

Hazards. The trail can turn muddy or boggy after rain, particularly where runoff crosses from neighbouring pastures. There is no shade cover for long stretches, so avoid the middle of the day in summer.

Getting there. About 16 km from Albany via South Coast Highway, then Lower Kalgan Bridge Road and East Bank Road. There is parking and a toilet at the East Bank Road entrance, but no public transport option, so you will need a car.

Nearby with the dogs. Kalgan River Caravan Park and Chalets is close by and takes dogs overnight if you want to make a weekend of it. Central Albany, with its wider run of cafes, is about 15-20 minutes' drive.

Go early morning or late afternoon, especially in summer heat, and check the forecast first if it has rained recently as the low sections turn to mud fast. A solid pick for a fit dog that likes a proper river walk over a quick loop.

Sources

• Luke Pen Walk | Albany · thelifeofpy.com
• LUKE PEN RIVER WALK · amazingalbany.com.au
• 10 of WA's best dog-friendly walking trails - RAC · rac.com.au
• Luke Pen Walk, Albany - Attraction - Tourism Western Australia · westernaustralia.com
• Luke Pen Walk, Albany - Trails WA · trailswa.com.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.