HIKED: 2017

LOCATION: Pemberton & Vasse hwy, Beedelup National Park – 4.5 hours from Perth

Pemberton Visitor Centre: 08 9776 1133

The drive into Pemberton is like entering a magical far away land. Surrounded by forest trees that touch the sky, you instantly feel the solitude. There was no phone reception so we ended up driving into town to the Pemberton Visitor Centre for directions. We were given a few maps with details about different hikes and parks to visit, and then headed to Karri Valley resort.

As we were driving through, we’d see cabins tucked away in the trees and chickens and emus roaming freely. When it comes to forests I instantly feel my shoulders drop and breathing slows. Solitude. After a long drive on a hot day, we couldn’t wait to get outside. We set up a beautiful picnic on the lakeside. Pre-making lunch with plenty of snacks is so much easier than having to find food after being in the car for ages. After eating, we changed into our hiking shoes and headed towards Beedelup Falls track.

Beedelup National Park

Distance: 4.5km moderate hike

Trail type: Easy

At different parts of the trail the forest trunks were at eye level and they were huge! Down below a running creek flowed between the lush trees and moss into the lake. I particularly loved the big ferns and bright yellow moss that coated the trunks. The walk is relatively easy and mostly flat. It crosses over the waterfall and leads around to the suspension bridge which hangs over the falls. It’s a loop trail and you can also explore part of the Bibbulmun track. At different parts of the track, you can see the lake and the Karri Valley Resort in the distance.

Final Thoughts

When you feel like disconnecting from the world, technology and all, Pemberton is the perfect place to wind down. A little different than a poolside retreat, this kind of venture can do wonders; quieten a restless mind and delight the spirit. With trees that make you feel tiny, hidden jewels, and a small town feel, it’s the untainted aspect I love most. Being in civilisation amongst the hustle bustle, we may at times feel on edge and anxious. Out here, there’s plenty of energy to rejuvenate a tired soul.

Interestingly, I found this after I wrote this part – Explore Parks Wa suggests the park name is from the Nyoongar word Beedja meaning place of rest or place of sleep. Isn’t it amazing that long before I came here, the people who discovered this place experienced the same thing?

What trails in WA rejuvenate your soul and wellbeing?

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