Mountain Biking Trails
Dwellingup is home to some of Australia’s most highly regarded mountain bike trails, catering to all skill levels. Get ready to shred!
- Dwellingup Trails Network:
- Details: Easily accessible from the town centre, these trails are perfect for a casual, family and friends ride or getting in some serious cross-country distance. They connect to the broader network, including sections of the Munda Biddi Trail and Turner Hill.
- Difficulty: Primarily green (easy) to blue (intermediate) sections.
- Distance & Elevation: Undulating, flexible loops and connections. Ideal for shorter rides and longer loops, without having to climb too much. Refer to the Dwellingup Trails Network map and Dwellingup Trails Guide for precise details.
- Murray Valley Trails Network:
- Details: Experience the picturesque forest and river views on these trails, offering a mix of terrain that can challenge and delight.
- Difficulty: Generally blue (intermediate) with some green (easy) sections as well as descending, technical black.
- Distance & Elevation: Various options available. Your essential companion will be the Murray Valley Trails Network map and Murray Valley Trail Guide.
- Munda Biddi Trail (Sections):
- Details: While the Munda Biddi is a world-renowned long-distance trail, accessible sections near Dwellingup offer fantastic riding for day and overnight trips, linking up with local networks. It’s a genuine wilderness experience.
- Difficulty: Generally green (easy), with some sections that can be more challenging depending on weather and trail condition.
- Distance & Elevation: Varies greatly by chosen section. Our tours often use specific sections – check our ‘Munda Biddi Explorer’ and ‘Pedal ‘n’ Platter’ tour pages for more info, or purchase detailed Munda Biddi maps from our shop. Check out the Munda Biddi website for more info.
- Toms Crossing Downhill
- Details: Steep, technical trails for experienced mountain bikers only. Blue and Black trails with optional double-black features. Think road gaps, big drops and steep switch-backs. Note; Dwellingup Adventures does not allows its hire bikes to be used on Toms Crossing trails.
Hiking & Walking Trails
Step out into nature and explore Dwellingup on foot. From short, accessible strolls to sections of epic long-distance trails, there’s a walk for every pace.
- Dwellingup Trails Network:
- Details: Perfect for a relaxed bushwalk directly from town. These trails offer a chance to enjoy the local flora and fauna without venturing too far.
- Distance: Various short loops ranging from 1.3km to 3km.
- Difficulty: Easy, suitable for families.
- Best Times to Visit: Year-round, but spring (for wildflowers) and autumn (for cooler weather) are particularly lovely. Avoid the hottest parts of the day in the summer months.
- Maps: Refer to the Dwellingup Trails Network map (see ‘The Mack’), and Marrinup Walk Trails map.
- Lane Poole Reserve Trails;
- Details: Just a short drive away sits Lane Poole Reserve, and a selection of various Grade 3 (moderate) short and steep trails to Grade 4 (hard) longer, more challenging trails.
- Distance: From 2km one-way trails up to 18km loops.
- Difficulty: Moderate to hard. Suitable for older children, and adults with reasonable fitness.
- Best Times to Visit: Year-round, but spring (for wildflowers) and autumn (for cooler weather) are particularly lovely. Avoid the hottest parts of the day in the summer months.
- Maps: Refer to the Lane Poole Reserve Walk Trails map.
- Bibbulmun Track (Local Sections) and Nyingarn Bidi;
- Details: Dwellingup is a key hub for the world-famous Bibbulmun Track, a long-distance walking trail. Experience sections of this iconic path, known for its pristine bushland, unique huts, and diverse landscapes.
- Distance: Varies from short day walks (e.g., sections leading to Swamp Oak Hut as part of our ‘Pack ‘n’ Paddle’ tour) to multi-day expeditions including the 2-day Nyingarn Bidi.
- Difficulty: Varies from moderate to challenging depending on the section and your fitness.
- Best Times to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for cooler weather and stunning scenery. Summer can be very hot, and winter may bring rain.
- Maps: Detailed Bibbulmun Track maps (which includes the Nyingarn Bidi) are available for purchase at the Dwellingup Adventures trails shop. Check out the Bibbulmun Track website for more info.
Canoeing & Water Trails
The Murray River offers tranquil pools and exciting channels, perfect for paddling adventures.
- Murray River: Yarragil to Dwaarlindjirraap (Baden Powel Water Spout) Route:
- Details: This popular section provides a fantastic 10km paddling experience, moving through long pools, faster-moving channels, and even some small rapids (water level dependent). You’ll pass stunning forest-lined banks, finishing at key points like Baden Powell Water Spout where a suspension bridge gives you epic views.
- River Conditions: The Murray River’s flow is reliant on natural rainfall. Ideal conditions for general paddling are typically from March to November. During summer (December to February), water levels can be quite low. Although the river can be paddled all year, the summer months generally require you to portage or wade in some sections. For Fast Water Rafting, higher levels (usually June to October) are required. During winter the river levels can get quite high. During these times we recommend only paddling if you are experienced. Dwellingup Adventures will always advise on suitability for tours and hires based on current conditions.
- Maps: The Murray River Yarragil to Nanga Bridge Map and accompanying Murray River Yarragil to Nanga Bridge Route Notes are essential for this journey.
Trail Tips & Safety Guidelines
Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Here are some essential tips for exploring Dwellingup’s trails:
- Plan Ahead & Be Prepared: Always let someone know your plans, including your route and estimated return time. Check weather forecasts before you go.
- Carry Sufficient Water: There is often no access to drinking water on the trails. Carry at least 2 litres per person, more on hot days or for longer trips.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear & Clothing: Sturdy, closed-in shoes are essential for all trails. Dress in layers, avoiding cotton, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Stay on Marked Trails: For your safety and to protect the environment, always stick to marked trails.
- Mobile Reception: Mobile reception can be unreliable in the Dwellingup bush. Consider carrying an emergency communication device (like a PLB or satellite phone) for remote areas.
- Wildlife Awareness: Observe local wildlife from a distance. Never feed animals.
- Leave No Trace: Take all your rubbish with you, and leave the bush as you found it.
- Fire Safety: Be aware of fire bans, especially during warmer months. Campfires are only permitted in designated areas during specific seasons.
- Emergency Contacts: In an emergency, call 000. Note your location as precisely as possible. For non-medical assistance, you can call Dwellingup Adventures on 9538 1127.
Accessing Maps & Guides: We have a selection of free, printed maps for you to take away. For longer trails like the Munda Biddi and Bibbulmun Track you can purchase these at the Dwellingup Adventures trails shop, located at the Dwellingup Trails and Visitors Centre. Our friendly staff are also on hand to offer advice and help you choose the perfect trail for your adventure!