An extensive network of cycle paths trace through the city, along the banks of the Swan River and the coastline, providing a safe and convenient way to explore at your leisure.
Before setting out, grab a cycle map - The Department for Planning and Infrastructure produces and distributes a range of comprehensive cycling maps and guides available at most visitor information centres and bike shops or download online.
Most of Perth’s bike riding is on dual-use paths where you should keep left whenever possible and remember that pedestrians have priority at roads, make sure it is safe to cross before leaving the path. Obey all road rules and for your own protection, wear a safety helmet at all times.
Bicycles can be hired just off Riverside Drive near the Causeway. The maps are free and available from various bike shops and visitor information centres, or from the Department for Planning and Infrastructure website www.dpi.wa.gov.au. For more information call (08) 9216 8000 or email cycling@dpi.wa.gov.au
Swan River Foreshore
A popular circuit (approximately nine and a half kilometres) starts at the east end of Riverside Drive in the city, past Barrack Street Jetty, across the Narrows Bridge, along the South Perth foreshore, over the Causeway and back to Riverside Drive.
On the city side you can take in the historic boatshed and Old Perth Port at the Barrack Street Jetty and the Swan Bells at Barrack Square. On the South Perth side there are a number of riverside cafes for a refreshment stop – or take a picnic.
King’s Park
Access to Kings Park by bike is easiest via the dual-use path next to Mounts Bay Road to Hackett Drive (three kilometres) and through to the underpass at Winthrop Avenue.
Kings Park (Perth’s Botanic Gardens) provides a unique 400 hectares of unspoiled parkland and natural bush, beautiful at all times of the year, but magnificent during the spring wildflower season.
Overlooking the river and the city, Kings Park offers spectacular views and the unique elevated Federation Walkway. You’ll discover several wildflower gardens and a tuart lawn before crossing the striking Water Garden Valley and entering the captivating cathedral of the Marri Woodland. Rest a while in the park’s leafy surrounds before setting off again.
View the map online.
Ride Along the Sunset Coast
The Sunset Coast extends from Hillary’s Harbour beach marina in the north to Fremantle’s Port Beach. Highlights of the journey include Sorrento Quay, Scarborough Beach, Cottesloe Boardwalk, the sights of Fremantle and the landscaped parklands in Coogee.
The entire route can be completed as a full day excursion or divided into a series of individual rides that vary in length from 5 to 8 kilometres. Although primarily aimed at cyclists, many of the shorter sections also provide a wonderful sensory experience for people on foot.
The booklet ‘Ride along the Sunset Coast’ contains maps and text that feature picnic areas, swimming beaches, public toilets, fishing spots and even inshore shipwrecks. Any potential hazards for cyclists and pedestrians are also indicated where applicable.
The booklet is free from most bike shops and various outlets along the route, or view it online.
