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 at a Glance#
Address: John Forrest National Park, Great Eastern Highway, Perth Hills, Western Australia
Website: https://www.parks.wa.gov.au/park/john-forrest
Hours: Park open daily (daylight hours)
Admission: Entry free; park fees may apply for some facilities
About John Forrest National Park#
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.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 17° - 31° | 24° | 15 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 17° - 31° | 24° | 20 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 16° - 29° | 22° | 18 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 13° - 24° | 19° | 41 mm | - | - | 3.8 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 11° - 21° | 16° | 108 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 9° - 17° | 13° | 166 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 8° - 16° | 12° | 171 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 8° - 17° | 12° | 135 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 9° - 19° | 14° | 92 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 10° - 21° | 15° | 54 mm | - | - | 3.9 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 12° - 24° | 18° | 31 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 15° - 28° | 21° | 10 mm | - | - | 4.6 m/s | - | - |
