King Jarrah Circuit

King Jarrah Circuit is a 17.5 km loop through Lane Poole Reserve near Nanga Brook, Western Australia, starting at Nanga Mill Campground close to Dwellingup. It is rated hard, taking most walkers around 5.5 to 6 hours, and it is one of the few DBCA-managed reserves that allows dogs on the trail.

The walk. The full circuit runs about 17.5 km and is done 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. A large, old jarrah tree along the way is one of the highlights of the route. This is a proper hike, not a stroll, and the distance and grade mean it suits fit dogs and fit owners.

The rules. Lane Poole Reserve is managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), and this is one of the few DBCA reserves that permits dogs at all. Dogs must be on lead and under control at all times, including in the campgrounds, not just on the track itself. National park entry fees apply to get into the reserve. Keep dogs well away from native wildlife in the forest sections, and clean up after your dog throughout.

Water. There is no drinking water at Nanga Mill Campground or the trailhead, so carry enough for yourself and your dog for the full walk. The second half runs alongside the Murray River, which gives dogs a chance to wade and cool off, but it is river water, not drinking water.

Getting there. From Perth it is roughly a 1 hour 30 minute drive south via the Kwinana Freeway and Forrest Highway, through Pinjarra and Dwellingup, then along Nanga Road into Lane Poole Reserve, following signs to Nanga Mill Campground. There is free parking at the trailhead and drop toilets at the campground, but no public transport option, so a personal vehicle is essential.

Nearby with the dogs. If you want to make a night of it, Charlies Flat is a dog-friendly stay in Nanga Brook worth pairing with this walk.

When to go. With steep climbs and no drinking water on site, cooler months are the sensible choice for this one. Good for experienced hikers with fit dogs who are comfortable on lead for a long day out.

Sources

• Lane Poole Reserve visitor guide · exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au
• Pet-friendly campsites in Western Australia · www.campwatch.com.au
• King Jarrah Walk Trail | Lane Poole Reserve · www.thelifeofpy.com
• King Jarrah Walk Trail, Lane Poole Reserve, Dwellingup · trailswa.com.au

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