Dog Friendly Hikes in the South West

Below is a guide to the hiking trails in the South West that you can take your furry children to for a fun day out. As I visit more trails I will be adding to this list so there are a few more to come.

Click on the trail name or photos to find out more information on each trail including where to find them, maps and hiking grade.

As always please make sure you are a responsible dog owner and adhere to the Leave No Trace principles when out on the trails.

Balingup Racecourse Flora Reserve

Where - Balingup

Length - 3.1km (Loop)

Time - 1 Hour

Best experienced in spring, take a walk around the old forest lined racecourse, followed by a wander on the Possum Tree Walk. Scan the undergrowth for wildflowers from late winter through spring.

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Big Brook Dam

Where - Pemberton

Length - 4.2km (Loop)

Time - 1-2 Hours

Combining the beautiful Karri Forest and the man made lake, this loop around Big Brook Dam is a really enjoyable walk. Keep an eye out for the cabins that provide a fun learning experience.

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Blackwood River Walk

Where - Bridgetown

Length - 5.2km (Return)

Time - 1-2 Hours

Running along the edge of the mighty Blackwood River near the centre of Bridgetown, this tranquil walk provides a great experience as you look for the different birds that call this place home.

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Coastal Walk Trail

Where - Augusta

Length - 1.8km (One Way)

Time - 30 Mins

Exploring the coastline between Dead Finish and the Augusta Boat Harbour, this is part of a longer walk close to Augusta that is the best way to explore town.

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Ellen Cove to Albany Port

Where - Albany

Length - 6.1km (One Way)

Time - 1-2 Hours

Taking you along the picturesque edge of King George Sound between Middleton Beach and Albany Port, this is a great way to explore Albany and soak in the amazing views.

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Golden Valley Tree Park

Where - Balingup

Length - 4.6km (Loop)

Time - 1-2 Hours

One of the more unique parks in Western Australia thanks to the arboretum providing a more northern hemisphere experience with the deciduous trees shredding their leaves in autumn.

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Karri Lake Trail

Where - Quinninup

Length - 3.3km (Loop)

Time - 1 Hour

Located in the sleepy holiday town of Quinninup, the 3.3km loop takes you around Lake Katherine where you'll experience lovely Karri forest, views over the water and plenty of fresh air.

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Lake Seppings

Where - Albany

Length - 2.9km (Loop)

Time - 1 Hour

A stones throw away from the popular holiday spot of Middleton Beach in Albany, Lake Seppings is a great spot to sit and watch for birds, along with spotting wildflowers in spring.

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Lions Forest Walk Trail

Where - Donnybrook

Length - 3km (Loop)

Time - 1 Hour

Just outside the centre of Donnybrook is a little loop taking you through the forest. Best walked in spring when the wildflowers are out, this is a good activity if you're staying in the area.

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Luke Pen Walk

Where - Albany

Length - 11.3km (Return)

Time - 2-4 Hours

One of the best walks in Albany, explore the banks of the Kalgan River as it winds through the countryside. A stunning place in spring, this is a tranquil and thoroughly enjoyable walk.

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Margaret River Heritage Trail

Where - Margaret River

Length - 6km (Figure 8)

Time - 2-3 Hours

A relic of the 1988 Heritage Trail program, this figure 8 trail exploring the Margaret River is a really lovely experience in the forest. Take an hour or two to enjoy the peaceful surrounds of this trail.

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