Serpentine National Park
Serpentine National Park Park guide The proximity of Serpentine National Park to Perth has made it a popular day-visit area. The park increased in size to 4,500ha in 1988. The name ‘Serpentine’ has its origins from the early settlers of the region, who named the area after the Serpentine in England. The shape of the river, which reminded the early settlers of a serpent, also contributed towards the naming of the general region where the park is located. The park is on the Darling Scarp, the western edge of a huge, titled ancient plateau. Past weathering has resulted in distinct landscapes of lateritic uplands, minor and major valleys, and abrupt scarps. The Serpentine River contributes to the landscape with the steep slopes of the river valley and resistant granite outcrops giving rise to the unique feature of the park – the Serpentine Falls. Here, during winter, the white waters of the Serpentine River cascade into a swirling, rock-rimmed pool 15m below. Serpentine Falls has been one of the focal points of the area since the early European settlers came in droves to swim, picnic and enjoy a day out in the bush. The park is open between 8.30am and 5pm daily. Entry fees
Entry fees apply.
Facilities
• Gas barbecues (no fires allowed at any time) • Toilets • Water Universal access
Serpentine National Park provides wheelchair access to some picnic areas. For more detailed information please contact the ranger or visit the Access WA website at www.accesswa.com.au. How to get there
Travelling time is approximately one hour and 10 minutes from Perth. Travel 26km south of Armadale, off South West Highway into Falls Road. Best time to visit
Spring for wildflowers, winter for the waterfall. Please note: Over the busy summer period, visitation to Serpentine National Park may reach capacity. Recreational facilities will be closed once visitor capacity is reached. Apart from those visitors already in the park, people will not be allowed to enter, either by vehicle or on foot. It is recommended that you arrive prior to 11am on weekends.
Visitor safety
Caring for the reserve
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• Pets are not allowed in the park. • The taking of flora and fauna is prohibited. • Please do not feed the kangaroos or other native animals. Kangaroos can become very ill from eating unsuitable food. Their diet consists of vegetation such as grass and native plant shoots. Rangers may issue infringements to people who feed the kangaroos.
Bushwalking Picnicking Wildlife observation Photography
Walk trails
• K itty’s Gorge Trail – a moderately difficult 14km return walk. Allow five hours for the return walk. Lovely wildflowers can be seen in spring. • Baldwin’s Bluff – a moderately difficult 6km return walk. Allow three hours for the return walk. Excellent panoramic views at the summit. • There is a 200m walk trail along the Serpentine River which leads to the falls. When walking in Serpentine National Park expect steep sections and uneven ground. Wear suitable clothing and footwear. Be mindful of the weather and take plenty of water with you. Do not rely on mobile phone coverage. Always ensure someone knows where you are going.
Loose and uneven surfaces may be encountered when walking within the park. Glass, alcohol, eskies and chairs are prohibited at the falls. Swimming is not recommended. The water has varying depths, submerged hazards and is untreated. • Rocks at the falls are slippery when wet or when you have wet feet. Do not climb or jump from the rocks. • Do not cross over the weir at Serpentine Falls.
On-site information
Rangers, information shelter. Fires
No fires are allowed within the park. Important note: The park may be closed at short notice due to fire risk or other emergency conditions.
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Serpentine National Park
What to do
Perth Hills District 275 Allen Road Mundaring WA 6073 Ph: 9290 6100 www.dpaw.wa.gov.au
This document is available in alternative formats on request. Information current at April 2014.