King Jarrah Circuit

King Jarrah Circuit is a 17.5 km loop through Lane Poole Reserve near Nanga Brook, starting at Nanga Mill Campground just south of Dwellingup. Graded hard, it takes most walkers around 5.5 to 6 hours, and it is one of the few DBCA-managed reserves that allows dogs on the trail at all, which makes this a genuine bucket-list walk for fit owners and fit dogs.

The walk

The full circuit is a Class 4 loop best walked clockwise. The first half climbs steadily with steep ascents through jarrah forest, then eases off for the second half, which follows the Murray River back towards the start, passing the historic King Jarrah tree along the way.

This is a proper hike rather than a stroll, so bring navigation, plenty of water for both ends of the lead, and be honest about your dog's conditioning before committing to the full distance.

Leash status

Lane Poole Reserve is managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, and dogs are permitted only on a leash at all times, including in the campgrounds and recreation areas. Keep your dog tight on the trail and never let them range into the bush.

Water

There is no reliable drinking water on the circuit itself, so carry enough for the whole walk for both of you. The Murray River section offers swimming for dogs in the warmer months, but treat any water as untreated.

Hazards

The big one is 1080 poison baiting: DBCA lays baits in and around the reserve to control foxes and feral cats, and they are deadly to domestic dogs. A tight leash is a safety requirement here, not a preference. Steep, gravelly descents and summer heat are the other risks to plan around.

When to go

Autumn through spring is the comfortable window, when the forest is cool and the river is flowing. Summer starts are best at first light, and standard national park entry fees apply at the reserve gate. Nanga Mill Campground takes advance bookings if you want to start at sunrise.

Getting there

Drive through Dwellingup and follow Nanga Road past the reserve entry station to the Nanga Mill Campground turn-off, where ample parking sits beside the trail information sign. Perth is about 90 minutes north.

Make a day of it

Base yourself in Dwellingup, where Marrinup Campsite and Baden Powell Campground suit camping travellers, and Blue Wren Cafe covers the post-hike coffee. For an off-lead leg stretch on a rest day, Dwellingup Dog Park is in town.

More options are on the Western Australia dog friendly trails guide and the Nanga Brook destination page.