The rain brings WA’s bushland into vivid focus — moss and fungi carpet the undergrowth, birds and marsupials become more active, and the colours seem to intensify overnight.
This time of year the forests of the Southwest come alive with misty mornings and glistening canopies. Meanwhile, some of the more unusual and drier regions reveal their own quiet beauty: shimmering trunks of salmon gums, fresh scents on the breeze, and sparkling desert scenery.
Another bonus of the wet season? Solitude. With fewer people on the trails and the sound of rain as your companion, you’ll likely experience a deeper connection with the land.
Here's our top picks for some Makuru magic on the trails:
Mist, moss and massive rocks:
Porongurup National Park & Stirling Range National Park are often blanketed in mist this time of year, providing some magic moments of hiking through giant granite boulders seemingly up in the clouds.
Castle Rock, Porongurup NP | 4.7km | Class 5
As you near the summit of this short but rewarding trail, massive granite boulders flank the path, seemingly defying gravity with their perfect balance. On misty mornings, the forest feels dreamlike — calm, quiet, and ethereal — as you make your way to the iconic rock formations. The final ascent up the 6 metre ladder to the Granite Skywalk offers sweeping views and a thrilling finish.
Nancy Peak, Porongurup NP | 6.7km | Class 4
Nancy Peak is a haven for moss lovers. This loop trail winds through cool, shaded forest where mosses and ferns thrive between ancient granite boulders. The climb reveals layered views of the surrounding ranges, but it’s the lush, living green underfoot that steals the show.
Bluff Knoll, Stirling Range NP | 6.8km | Class 4
Bluff Knoll often wears a crown of cloud, and in the cooler months it becomes a stage for WA’s most spectacular skies. Standing over 1000 metres above sea level, the summit offers breathtaking scenes of cloudy valleys below or looming storms surrounding, or if you're really lucky a rare cloud-waterfall. The climb is steady and challenging, but the reward is nothing short of awe-inspiring.Cloud waterfall on Bluff Knoll, Stirling Range NP. Credit: @CamBostock
Warning: The weather in the Porongurup's and Stirling's can change in an instant, and even more so in the winter. Be prepared for anything, including snow. Hike within your and your companion's limits.
Forest Giants & Winter Greens
Western Australia's Southwest forests are some of the best places to explore in the wet season. The greens are vibrant, the bird song is incredible and there's nothing quite like the smell of the forest after rainfall.
Ancient Empire Walk, Valley of The Giants, Walpole-Nornalup NP | .65km | Class 1
This short but iconic walk winds beneath the colossal tingle trees in the Valley of the Giants, some over 400 years old. After rain, their moss-covered roots radiate vivid green, and the forest floor teems with life. Fully accessible via boardwalks and sealed paths, it's a perfect gentle adventure for little legs, prams, and anyone seeking a peaceful forest moment.
Gloucester Tree to Cascades Walk, Gloucester NP | 12KM | Class 3
This lengthier trail is utterly stunning in the winter as the water in Lefroy Brook begins to flow and the Cascades and surrounding forest come to life. The trail can be shortened, and both the Gloucester Tree and Cascades are a great spot to bring a picnic. Pack a thermos for some warm drinks and soak in the quiet of the forest.
Wambenger Trails, Wellington NP | Network
This fantastic line up of trails within Wellington NP is great for winter riding. The paths are grippy, the surrounding forest is rich with scent and sound and the cooler temperatures make for more comfortable climbs. Kick off with the Van Dam trail as a warm-up, then choose your own adventure across the mossy, mud-lined routes beyond.
Murray Valley Trails, Dwellingup | Network
Tucked into the surrounding jarrah forest around Lane Poole Reserve, this network offers something for the whole family. At just an hour south of Perth this is a great option to escape the city this weekend and enjoy some mud!
Desert blooms and moody skylines
Often the more arid areas in WA are thought of as an escape from the cold, and certainly not as a winter wonderland, however they're quite extraordinary in the wet season.
Desert View Walk Trail, Nambung NP | 1.6km | Class 3
The alien landscape of the Pinnacles desert is already wild, but picture it with a skyline of indigo, purple and pink as the rains inland off the coast. Makuru can transform the desert instantly with water pooling on the sandy ground and the sky casting incredible subtle shadows over the rock formations.
Dryandra Woodland | Network
Just outside Narrogin lies Dryandra Woodland NP, one of WA’s most quietly spectacular winter walking spots. The trails weave through a patchwork of wandoo, powderbark, gimlet, and rock sheoak — trees that shine with winter rain and glow golden in subdued light. While the wildlife is more reserved this time of year, the scenery more than makes up for it, offering solitude and striking seasonal beauty in every direction. Keep a lookout for Echidnas and Curlews during the day and Tawny frogmouths, and Woylies at night.
Staying Safe & Tips For Rainy Days
The wet season calls for just a little more planning:
General:
- Always carry waterproof gear and wear decent trail shoes
- Pack layers, and avoid cotton fabrics
- Let someone know your plans before heading out
- Check DBCA Park Alerts and weather conditions prior to heading out on the trails
- Take it slow on slippery areas, rock scrambles and climbs.
- Keep your essentials dry: stash your phone, snacks and gear that needs to stay dry in ziplocks or drybags
- Mind your manners! Say hello to anyone you meet on the trail, always practice Trail Etiquette
For Hikers:
- Trail shoes or boots with good grip are a must
- Gaiters or waterproof pants will help with long, wet grass, overgrown brush and puddles
- Bring a change of clothes and towel to leave in the car - especially if you have a dog in tow
- Planning a picnic? Take a couple of spare towels and a picnic blanket for wet tables and logs
For Mountain Bikers & Gravel Riders:
- Ride with care – brake earlier and take corners slower than usual
- Lower your tyre pressure slightly for better traction on wet surfaces
- Try to avoid skidding – it can damage trails and make riding riskier
- Clean and lube your drivetrain after wet rides to keep your bike running smoothly
