Helena Pipehead Walk, Helena Valley

Overview

A moderately easy 5.2km loop walk through Kalamunda National Park in the Perth Hills, with lovely views of Helena River and the valley’s wandoo woodland, leading to a beautiful outlook of the Lower Helena Pipehead Dam. Beautiful orchids flourish during Western Australia’s popular wildflower season.

Helena Pipehead Walk

Views of the Dam and the catchment facility

Photo Credit: Sara Botten

View trail map

About the Trail

Helena Pipehead Walk is a moderately easy walk through Kalamunda National Park in Helena Valley, located 23km (30 minute drive) north-east of Perth in the Perth Hills. The 5.2km loop trail follows the Helena River and overlooks the valley and its wandoo woodland, with spectacular views following the water pipe that leads to Lower Helena Pipehead Dam. 

The trail commences where the sealed section of Helena Valley Road ends, after a short beautiful drive that winds through Helena Valley. There is a small area to park your car at the start of the trail. (Please be aware that parking is limited and turning around can be difficult.)

The first part of the track follows the unmade Helena Valley Road, taking you to a steel bridge with a white gate (which may be locked). As you follow the trail, the Helena River and views of the valley should be to your left.

The trail is comfortable and wide but somewhat rocky in sections. There are some sections that are quite steep. 

Wildflower season, August to November, offers you the opportunity to see spectacular wildflowers, especially orchids.

There are no obvious trail markers or signage so it is important to follow the walk trail map closely, as it is easy to find yourself on a different trail.

Walk trail map is available at the Shire of Kalamunda website. 

Trail Notes:

1. Take the left fork. The first part of the track is followng the unsealed section of the Helena Valley Road.

2. Cross a dry water course with a steel bridge and a gate (which may be locked).

3. Continue along the track for good views of the Pipehead Dam.

4. At this point, veer away from the river and head uphill.

5. At T-junction, take the right fork at the Shire sign. This is the furthest point of the walk.

6. A track converges from the left near an old car body.

7. Ignore track to the right.

8. Cross an open area and go through the white gate.

9. Rejoin main road and turn left.

10. Return to the car park at the start of the trail.

http://www.kalamunda.wa.gov.au/Leisure-Tourism/Tourism/Walking-Trails

Need to Know

  • Time

    Up to 2 hours

  • Distance

    5.2km loop Length is 5.2km (Loop).

  • Trail Start (Loop)

    End of Helena Valley Road, Helena Valley, 23km (30 minutes) north-east of Perth

  • Degree of Difficulty

    Moderate - Moderate level of fitness and experience required.
    Bush Walk: Grade 3 - Suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Some bushwalking experience recommended. Tracks may have short steep hill sections a rough surface and many steps. Walks up to 20km.

    Moderately easy with some steep sections

  • What to Pack?

    Group B (Bushwalks and/or longer trails) required.

    • Minimum 2 litres of water per person per day
    • Sturdy shoes
    • Sun hat or bike helmet (compulsory in WA)
    • Sunglasses, sunscreen (30+) and insect repellant
    • Binoculars and camera (optional)
    • Map or guide book where suggested
    • Snacks and/or lunch depending on length of trail
    • Clothes to suit the activity and potential weather conditions including a water/windproof jacket
    • First Aid kit

  • Best Time of the Year

    August to November for wildflowers

  • Facilities

    • Bicycles Prohibited

  • Access to the Trail

    Road 2WD

  • Trail Contact

    Perth Hills Visitor Centre
    Telephone: (08) 9257 9998
    Email: visitor.centre@kalamunda.wa.gov.au
    Web: http://www.experienceperthhills.com.au/
    Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/experienceperthhills
    Twitter: @Perth_Hills