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Bells Rapids River Walk, Swan Valley

The Goat Walk takes you over the hill with views across the surrounding countryside and out to the coast +1 Gallery
Trail difficulty
The River Walk is mostly flat with a small rocky section. Watch out for unstable areas along the edge of the river.
The Goat Walk has steep rocky sections
Trail difficulty

Moderate trail that may have short steep hills, rough surface, many steps or some rock hopping. Directional signage. Some bushwalking experience and moderate fitness required.

  • Length 2.75km
  • Est. time Less than 1 hour
  • Dog friendly
  • Circuit / loop
Today

18°C

28°

17°

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Cross the bridge and head to your left for the easy 2.5km return Bells Rapids River Walk or turn right and follow the more challenging Goat Walk up and over the hill, until it meets the River Walk and returns to the bridge and picnic area. Expect some steep rocky climbs and descents along the way. Keep an eye out for the cheeky Buttocks Boulder!

With its majestic boulders and rushing waters in the winter, Bells Rapids has been a favourite picnic location for families for many years. The beautiful Grey Kangaroo can be seen in abundance at certain times of the year and the wildflowers are worth a visit from July to November.

Bells Rapids is also known for being one of the best vantage points along the Swan River for the Avon River descent.

Download the brochure from the Need to Know section for more detailed directions.

 

City of Swan

9267 9326

Swan Valley Visitor Centre

(08) 9207 8899

  • Visit website
  • Guildford Courthouse, Cnr Meadow and Swan Streets, Guildford WA 6055

Other Links

  • Destination Perth

    Comprehensive information on the Perth region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.


Downloads

Be trail ready

Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.

Time / Duration

Up to an hour

Length

2.75km loop

Fees

No fees apply

Trail Access

Self drive, parking available

Trail Start

Bells Rapids Park, Cathedral Avenue, off Great Northern Highway, Brigadoon; 45 minutes from Perth city

Get directions

Trail End

When to go

Visit in July to November for best water flow and wildflowers

What’s the weather like?

Bush Walk

Class 3

Moderate trail that may have short steep hills, rough surface, many steps or some rock hopping. Directional signage. Some bushwalking experience and moderate fitness required.

Additional information

The River Walk is mostly flat with a small rocky section. Watch out for unstable areas along the edge of the river.
The Goat Walk has steep rocky sections

What To Pack

Hazards & Warnings

It is the responsibility of individuals to be aware of fire bans in place

Facilities

  • Car Park
  • Dog Friendly
  • Picnic Area
  • Public Toilet
  • Shaded Area
More tips for being Trail Ready

Today Apr 11, 12:16am

18°C

Feels like 17°C

Max 28°

Min 17°

Precipitation: 0%

Visibility: 10km

Wind: 7.67km/h E

8-day forecast

Sat

28°

17°

Sun

25°

22°

Mon

22°

21°

Tue

23°

21°

Wed

23°

21°

Thu

21°

20°

Fri

21°

20°

Sat

22°

21°

Weather data provided by:

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15 trail goers have rated this trail as 4.13 out of 5!

We love to hear from people who've been on our Western Australian trails, so it would be most appreciated it if you wanted to leave a review.

Julia fitzgerald

Reviewed 21 Jun 2024, 3:37pm

It's a lovely spot, but this is not an easy walk! Lots of rocks and gravel, gave my knee a heavy workout! I found the rock scrambling way too much, for me and spent most of the time anxiously watching my step instead of enjoying the scenery! Also note the walk is not suitable for strollers!
S L

Reviewed 12 Apr 2024, 1:56pm

A relaxing trail with a great view. Family friendly walk.
Profile photo for SALONI SHETH
SALONI SHETH

Reviewed 9 Aug 2023, 6:00pm

It the most scenic destination near to the city of perth. A must visit. Highly recommended to bring camping chairs, water and food. The waterfall is chilled and mesmerizing.
Cam L

Reviewed 1 Jan 2023, 11:02am

Lots of path options close to and further from the waters edge along the river, allows you to pick you own difficulty to a degree. Some areas have tree cover but the trail is mostly in the sun. I arrived early and the gate to the inner car park was closed, so I had to walk around 1km to the trail head. Would recommend for all types of walkers.
Chelle Fisher

Reviewed 14 Sep 2022, 10:35am

Love Bells Rapids and the walk trails are fantastic with beautiful views. A great family friendly walk trail
Olivia Brookes

Reviewed 17 Oct 2021, 8:37am

Suitable for whole family of all fitness levels! Perfect Sunday stroll ????
Olivia Brookes

Reviewed 17 Oct 2021, 8:36am

Suitable for whole family of all fitness levels! Perfect Sunday stroll ????
Jarra Smith

Reviewed 2 Oct 2021, 9:09am

Beautiful trail and suits all types of hikers. Some amazing views from the hill and the loop trail is a nice test for kids.
Charli Smith

Reviewed 23 Jun 2018, 10:49am

Love this track, our go-to for an easy Sunday walk. Do it in the morning and have lunch in the Swan Valley after!
Grace G

Reviewed 17 May 2018, 3:24pm

There is a very steep driveway to access the car park, definitely need a suitable car.
From the carpark you walk upstream to a bridge, after crossing the bridge both trails start. The trail to the left is an easy a walk alongside the water. The trail to the right is just a tad harder and a loop. This trail starts with a very long moderately steep hill, this is the most difficult part of the trail. It is all pretty well sign posted and you walk past a 'butt' boulder. Once you walk down the hill, the trail splits into two paths- 1 to the left through a gate with the other just continuing to the right. Turning left and walking through the gates will bring you back in a loop (the 'left' trail).

Its a very scenic walk and you can also go cool down in the water after the hike. Quite a lot of Dogs.
Leanne Heggie

Reviewed 28 Feb 2018, 2:29pm

Great natural track and loved the boudler bum gave the kids a chuckle. Went after good rainfall and lovely to see nature abundant, fantastic location close to Perth - excellent day out.
Vickie Perry

Reviewed 10 Dec 2017, 11:16am

Beautiful place to take the family. We love walking the goat trail. Beautiful surroundings landscapes and picture perfect views.
Tracey Stafford

Reviewed 28 Jul 2017, 5:34pm

Great walk today.rapids flowing strongly.beautiful views of our great bush land
Kobie Hughes

Reviewed 18 Jul 2017, 11:22am

Nice, fairly easy trail with pretty views. Gets packed on some weekends which can make manoeuvring on the trail a bit cramped in place. Some clambering over rocks and boulders required near the river. Can also take another trail at this spot that heads up a big hill for a more intense walk. Nice spot for a picnic and there are toilets at the start of the trail.
Andrew Dunn

Reviewed 14 Jul 2017, 12:55pm

Awesome walk at Bells Rapids today and it was great to so many families their.

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