Kep Track
Kep Track is named for the Noongar word for water, kep, and is part of the National Trust’s Golden Pipeline. This multi-use trail designed for cyclists, walkers and equestrians, follows rail formations for most of its 80 km path. As well as following the path of the original eastern railway, Kep Track passes through the picturesque villages of Clackline, Bakers Hill, Wundowie, Wooroloo, Chidlow, Mt Helena, Sawyers Valley and Mundaring just to the east of Perth.
With trail heads in Northam and Mundaring Weir and multiple entry sites to the trail, the Kep Track offers recreational users and the more ambitious alike a high standard trail within a short distance of the metropolitan area.
The mainly gravel path provides a variety of trail options, from the two hour return walk with family and friends to a two day cycle through the changing landscape, or even a one day challenge from Northam to the weir – the opportunities are many.
The trail is supported by a web site and brochure with a clear map which details parking, picnic, toilet and other facilities along the way to help you plan your trip. The path is wide and easy to follow and where it deviates from this it is well signposted. Along the way information signs identify places and sites of historical or environmental interest.
An event with a range of options for walkers, runners, cyclists and equestrians is held every year. For more information on the event or the Kep Track in general call the National Trust on 9321 6088 or go to www.keptrack.org.au. Brochures are available from No 1 Pump Station (Mundaring Weir), the National Trust, tourist information centres and metropolitan bike shops or can be downloaded from the website.
The Railway Reserve Heritage Trail
The Railway Reserve Heritage Trail follows the routes of two former railways and is unique in providing a 40 kilometre loop entirely on railway formations.
The length of this extensive trail, spanning from Bellevue to Mount Helena in the Perth hills, provides a challenge for walkers and riders. It covers a wide range of terrains with scenic views and numerous points of historical and natural significance. Attractions include a disused railway tunnel, views from John Forrest National Park (including waterfalls in winter / spring), Mundaring Sculpture Park, Goldfields pipeline and villages. The area also features wineries and tea-rooms.
Many of the reserves are now community parks providing picnic tables, toilets and other facilities. There are large distances between some townsites, some sections are sandy in places and signage is a little limited so keep a map handy.
Many points along the trail are accessible by road. It is suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding
For further information and a downloadable map visit the Swan Valley and Perth Hills website.
