John Forrest National Park
Park Perth-area national park with eucalyptus forest and waterfalls
East of Perth, John Forrest National Park contains eucalyptus forest, waterfalls and walking and mountain‑biking tracks; the park serves as a popular day‑hike and picnic destination close to the city.
John Forrest National Park is a protected area in Western Australia, situated in the Darling Range about 24 kilometres east of Perth and named after Sir John Forrest, an early premier of the state.
The park contains woodland, sandstone gullies and several small waterfalls and picnic areas, with a network of walking and mountain-biking trails of varying lengths. Lookouts along the ridges provide views over the surrounding Perth Hills and valleys, and spring brings notable wildflower displays.
Gazetted as a protected area in the late 19th century and later named for Sir John Forrest, the park has a long history of conservation and recreation in the Perth region. Historic tracks and some railway-era remnants reflect early visitor access and infrastructure in the area.
The park lies on the eastern fringe of the Perth metropolitan area in Western Australia, on the slopes of the Darling Range, with approach roads from the towns in the Perth Hills and suburbs to the west.
- Best time to visit: Best light for photography of waterfalls and sandstone gullies is in the morning; wildflower displays peak in spring (August-October in Western Australia).
- Proximity to Perth: Located on the western edge of the Darling Range about 24 kilometres east of central Perth, making it a common day-trip from the city.
How to Get to John Forrest National Park #
About 24 km east of Perth CBD along Great Eastern Highway. There is a clearly signposted park entrance with parking; Transperth bus services connect from Midland with further local taxi options.
Tips for Visiting John Forrest National Park #
- Arrive before midday to avoid afternoon winds and to see wildlife in cooler hours.
- Take the National Park's marked trails (e.g., the Eagle View Trail) - they are well-signposted and offer different habitat experiences.
- Visit the Hovea and Glen Brook picnic areas to see historic rail relics and planted Jarrah stands.
Best Time to Visit John Forrest National Park #
Spring (Sept-Nov) is particularly attractive for wildflowers and mild hiking weather; autumn is also pleasant and less crowded.
Weather & Climate near John Forrest National Park #
John Forrest National Park's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Mediterranean - Hot-Summer Mediterranean climate with warm summers (peaking in February) and cool winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 8°C to 31°C. Moderate rainfall (861 mm/year) with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 31°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall.
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February
February is the warmest month with highs of 31°C and lows of 17°C. Light rainfall.
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March
March is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (41 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (108 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (166 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (171 mm).
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August
August is the coolest month with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (135 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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November
November is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (31 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 14°C. The driest month with just 10 mm.