The best MTB trails in John Forrest National Park
4.1
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1,028
riders
29
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John Forrest National Park mountain bike trails offer diverse landscapes within Western Australia's oldest national park, located in the Darling Ranges east of Perth. The park features rugged granite formations, varied forests including jarrah and marri, and significant natural features like waterfalls and historical railway relics. Its terrain provides a mix of challenging climbs and flowy descents, catering to different skill levels.
Best mountain bike trails in John Forrest National Park
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Mundaring Sculpture Park loop from Swan View, a 25.9 miles (41.7 km) trail that takes 3 hours 31 minutes to complete. This route follows sections of the old Eastern Railway, offering glimpses of historical features.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Mountainbike loop from John Forrest National Park, a moderate 18.6 miles (29.9 km) path. This trail navigates through diverse landscapes, including granite outcrops and forested areas.
- Local mountain bikers also love the National Park Falls loop from Swan View, an 8.5 miles (13.7 km) trail leading through varied forests and past waterfalls, often completed in about 1 hour 14 minutes.
- Mountain biking in John Forrest National Park is defined by rugged granite formations, diverse forests, and historical railway relics. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging paths with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in John Forrest National Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 60 reviews. More than 1000 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore John Forrest National Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
4.8
(19)
194
riders
42.2km
03:33
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(9)
117
riders
21.3km
02:00
330m
330m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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28
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
29
riders
45.3km
03:51
360m
360m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
27
riders
13.7km
01:14
170m
170m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Hovea Falls are nestled on the eastern edge of John Forrest National Park. The waterfalls are small and flowing over smooth granite rocks with moss on them. It is a seasonal fall, best seen from June through October.
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Margaret Forrest Centre was named after Lady Margaret Forrest's contribution to the conservation of John Forrest National Park and her work as a founding member of the Karrakatta Club. Theres a car park just south of the centre and the Eagle View Walk trackhead to the north.
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Swan View Tunnel is one of the most memorable features on the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail, passing through a curved railway tunnel in John Forrest National Park. It’s completely dark inside, with an uneven gravel surface, so a torch or phone light is recommended. The air feels noticeably cooler as you walk through.
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John Forrest National Park is one of Western Australia’s oldest national parks, known for its jarrah forest, seasonal waterfalls, and walking tracks that follow old railway lines. Sections of the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail pass through here, alongside routes to spots like National Park Falls and Swan View Tunnel. Around the main visitor areas, such as this one, you’ll find parking, picnic areas, toilets, and a water fountain to refill bottles, making it a convenient place to start or break up a walk. Trails are generally wide and mostly level, but can be uneven in places.
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The Railway Reserves Heritage Trail follows a former rail line through the Perth Hills, with long, mostly level sections that are easy to walk or cycle. You’ll pass through forest, cuttings, and old railway features, including tunnels and timber bridges. Popular access points like Mundaring and Swan View have parking and basic facilities. Surfaces are generally compact gravel, but can be uneven in places. The Swan View Tunnel is a standout section, but bring a torch. Watch for cyclists, and carry water as some stretches have limited shade.
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Depending on the season and previous rainfall, the waterfall changes
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Noolbenger is a one-way loop, CCW. Entry to the north loop is off the railway heritage trail near the main John Forrest NP car park, just after the bridge.
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Lots of hike a bike in this section
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are there in John Forrest National Park?
John Forrest National Park offers a diverse network of over 35 mountain bike trails, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from easy loops to more challenging paths with significant elevation gain.
What are the difficulty levels of mountain bike trails in John Forrest National Park?
The trails in John Forrest National Park range from easy to difficult. There are 4 easy routes, 24 moderate routes, and 8 difficult routes, ensuring options for all experience levels. For an easy ride, consider the National Park Falls loop from Swan View.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails?
You can expect a varied terrain characterized by rugged granite formations, diverse forests including jarrah and marri, and historical railway relics. Trails often feature a mix of challenging climbs and rewarding, flowy descents, with some sections traversing through wandoo and powderbark trees, and rich understories.
Are there any waterfalls or historical landmarks to see along the trails?
Yes, the park is home to two spectacular waterfalls, Hovea Falls and National Park Falls, which are particularly impressive during the cooler, rainier months (July to October). You can also cycle through the historic 340-meter Swan View Tunnel, a unique railway feature built in 1894.
When is the best time of year to go mountain biking in John Forrest National Park?
The cooler, wetter months, typically from July to October, are ideal for mountain biking. During this period, the waterfalls are at their most spectacular, and the park's wildflowers, such as kangaroo paws and hakeas, are in vibrant bloom, adding to the scenic beauty.
Is there parking available for mountain bikers?
Yes, John Forrest National Park has designated parking areas. The main park entrance and visitor areas typically offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific trailhead information for the most convenient parking options.
Can I reach John Forrest National Park by public transport?
Yes, the park is accessible by public transport. The Railway Reserves Heritage Trail, which is popular with cyclists, links to John Forrest National Park from nearby Midland, making it possible to access the park without a car.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in John Forrest National Park?
While many trails require good fitness, some sections and shorter loops are suitable for families. The Jane Brook Promenade Trail, though short, is an easy and accessible option featuring fairy houses and a nature playground. For a longer, easy mountain bike route, consider the National Park Falls loop from Swan View.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy the most about mountain biking in John Forrest National Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 60 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the mix of challenging climbs and flowy descents, and the opportunity to explore historical railway relics and natural features like waterfalls.
Are dogs allowed on the mountain bike trails?
As a national park, John Forrest National Park generally has restrictions on pets to protect native wildlife. It's best to check the official park regulations regarding dogs before planning your visit. You can find more information on the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions website: dbca.wa.gov.au.
What wildlife might I see while mountain biking?
John Forrest National Park is home to a diverse range of native wildlife. You might spot western grey kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and various bird species. Occasionally, unique animals like quokkas are also sighted within the park.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking?
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in John Forrest National Park are designed as loops. For example, the Mountainbike loop from John Forrest National Park offers a moderate 29.9 km path through diverse landscapes. Another option is the Mountainbike loop from Glen Forrest.
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