Perth: Bickley Valley Hiking Experience with Morning Tea

If you’re seeking a well-rounded outdoor adventure just outside Perth, the Bickley Valley Hiking Experience offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, gentle history, and a friendly guide-led group. For $36 per person, this 4-hour outing takes you along the Victoria Reservoir Walk Trail, where you’ll walk through wandoo and she-oak forests, explore old dam sites, and enjoy spectacular valley vistas. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip is ideal if you enjoy moderate walks, love learning about local landscapes, and want a taste of Western Australia’s rugged natural charm without requiring advanced hiking skills.

We particularly like the way the guides bring the area to life with interpretive signage and local insights that make each stop both educational and picturesque. The highlight for many is the gourmet morning tea at the historic Victoria dam, a perfect pause to soak in the scenery and chat with fellow adventurers. The scenic views from various vantage points, especially overlooking the granite outcrops and reservoir waters, make this experience stand out.

A possible consideration is that the tour starts at a gravel parking lot and involves some boulder hopping and rocky ascents, so sturdy, supportive shoes are a must. Also, since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own way to the starting point.

This experience is best suited for active travelers who want to enjoy nature at a relaxed pace, are comfortable walking 7 kilometers, and appreciate guided commentary in a small group setting. It’s perfect for those who enjoy authentic landscapes and native plant encounters without the crowds of popular tourist spots.

Key Points

• Scenic 7 km hike through Korung National Park with expert guides
• Stunning views of valleys, granite boulders, and reservoirs
• Native flora like wandoo and she-oak forests
• Historic sites including the Victoria dam and Australia’s oldest wooden bridge
• Gourmet morning tea at a historic dam, offering a delicious break
• All necessary gear like hiking poles, sunscreen, and insect repellent provided

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Bickley Valley Hiking Experience

Location and Price

This tour is based in Western Australia, starting at the Victoria Dam Carpark in Korung National Park, near Carmel. For $36, you get a 4-hour guided walk, which is quite reasonable considering what’s included — a scenic hike, morning tea, and expert guidance. The price reflects good value, especially since all essentials like hiking poles, sunscreen, and insect repellent are provided, removing some of the hassle and expense of packing your own.

Who Guides You?

Led by Off The Beaten Track WA, the guides have a 4.4 rating, indicating a solid level of satisfaction among past travelers. They are trained, experienced, and equipped with two-way communication devices and a personal location beacon — a reassurance for safety, especially in less populated wilderness areas. You’ll be in small groups, which enhances the personal touch and allows for more meaningful conversations about the environment and local history.

The Itinerary

The journey begins at the Victoria Dam Carpark, a small gravel lot on Korung Road. From here, you’ll follow a trail that covers 7 kilometers of mostly flat terrain, with just one rocky ascent. The terrain is described as level 3, meaning accessible for most people with a reasonable fitness level, though sturdy shoes are recommended. The trail is designed to be achievable for most, but those with mobility impairments should note that it’s not fully accessible.

Once on the trail, you’ll walk through wandoo and she-oak forests. These native trees create a peaceful canopy, and many of the interpretive signs offer insights into their ecological roles. The trail skirts granite outcrops and passes giant granite boulders, which are perfect for photo stops and boulder hopping. Expect to see beautiful valley views and blue reservoir waters from various lookout points, which are especially breathtaking in the morning light.

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The Historic Highlights

One of the most interesting parts of the hike is the visit to Australia’s oldest wooden bridge, the Mason & Bird Tramway. Here, you’ll get a taste of the area’s industrial past and marvel at the craftsmanship of this historic bridge. The Victoria dam, built for water storage, adds a historical and functional layer to the scenery, with its waters reflecting the sky and surrounding greenery.

The Gourmet Morning Tea

After about an hour and a half of hiking, you’ll arrive at the Victoria dam for a well-earned break. The gourmet morning tea is a highlight, offering a variety of nutritious and delicious snacks to fuel the rest of your walk. Many guests comment positively on the quality of the tea and treats, making it feel like a special reward after some physical activity.

The Final Vistas

As you wind down your walk, you’ll reach lookouts with panoramic views of the valley and the city skyline in the distance — a striking contrast of wilderness and urban life. The trail concludes with some boulder hopping and a few more scenic viewpoints before returning to your starting point.

What Makes It Special?

• The expert guides enhance the experience by sharing local stories and environmental knowledge
• The combination of physical activity and scenic beauty offers a satisfying day out
• The historic sites and interpretive signage add depth to the walk
• The small group size fosters a relaxed, friendly atmosphere

Potential Drawbacks

While the terrain is generally flat, the rocky sections might challenge those with limited mobility or balance issues. Also, since transport isn’t provided, you need to plan your own commute to the starting point, which might be a hassle if you’re relying on public transport or have limited vehicle access.

Who Is This Tour For?

This walk suits active travelers who enjoy natural landscapes, historic sites, and a moderate physical challenge. It’s ideal for small groups, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic wilderness experience with the comfort of guided support. If you prefer luxury tours or fully accessible options, you might want to explore other experiences.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

The Bickley Valley Hiking Experience offers excellent value for those wanting a guided outdoor adventure in Perth’s nearby wilderness. Its combination of stunning scenery, native flora, and history makes it a rewarding choice, especially if you’re eager to connect with nature without long or strenuous hikes. The guides’ local knowledge and the small group setting foster a friendly, educational atmosphere that appeals to curious travelers of all ages.

It’s best suited for active individuals who enjoy moderate walks, scenic viewpoints, and learning about WA’s natural environment. Families with older children, solo travelers, or small groups looking for an authentic day outdoors will find this a memorable experience. Just plan ahead for transport and wear sturdy shoes, and you’ll be set for a fulfilling outing.

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, transportation is not included. You will need to arrange your own way to the Victoria Dam Carpark.

How long is the hike?
The total walk covers approximately 7 kilometers, taking around 4 hours including breaks.

Is the terrain difficult?
No, the trail is mostly flat and graded as level 3, with only a short rocky ascent. It’s suitable for most people with a reasonable fitness level.

What should I bring?
Bring a backpack with 2-3 liters of water, a camera, personal medications, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy shoes, raincoat, and warm layers.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments, but it is accessible for people with low vision or who are living with certain disabilities, if discussed with the guides beforehand.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the guided hike, morning tea, hiking poles, sunscreen, insect repellent, and access to photos via a private social media group.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
While not guaranteed, the native flora and fauna encounters include native plants and possibly some wildlife native to WA.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s best for children who can comfortably walk 7 km and handle uneven terrain. It’s not recommended for very young children or those with significant mobility challenges.

In short, this guided hike offers a balanced, scenic, and informative outing that’s perfect for active travelers wanting a genuine taste of Western Australia’s natural beauty without the crowds. Pack your sense of adventure and a good pair of shoes, and you’ll likely leave with both new knowledge and some great photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: