The best walks and hikes in Tuart Forest National Park
4.5
(14)
645
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking trails in Tuart Forest National Park traverse a unique ecosystem, preserving the largest remaining pure forest of Tuart trees globally. The region is characterized by these towering trees, some centuries old, growing on coastal limestone. This creates a distinctive and serene woodland environment, offering a diverse natural setting for outdoor activities. The park's flat terrain makes it accessible for various hiking abilities.
Best hiking trails in Tuart Forest National Park
- The most popular hiking route is Possum Spotlighting Trail…
Last updated: July 14, 2026
4.5
(2)
8
hikers
1.97km
00:30
0m
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(2)
42
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
10.3km
02:35
0m
0m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(9)
572
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Tuart Forest National Park
Tips from the Community
Georgette Beach stretches about 4 kilometres east to west, with the Dunsborough to Busselton Shared Path following the beach. While enjoying the paved path, there are unobstructed views of the beach and grassland, and to the south Geographe Bay Road and upscale homes. This beach is not as heavily visited as central tourist areas, and offers a quieter beach experience with clear, calm, and shallow waters.
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Sitting on the side of the Busselton Foreshore Parade is a bust of French explorer Nicolas Baudin that was publicly unveiled in 2005. The monument is a tribute to the Baudin expedition of two ships with a small team of botanists and zoologists who explored and mapped the coast of Australia between 1800-1804. The artist of the sculpture is Peter Gelenscer, who included an informational plaque describing the Baudin and the expedition. The backdrop of the beach with golden sand and turquoise water is an added bonus.
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Dunsborough to Busselton Shared Path loops around a small roundabout, creating the perfect turnaround point right next to a large car park (less busy than the main beach car parks) and a public toilet. The turn around has nice views of the Port Geographe Wall of Port Geographe Marina. It was built as a protective barrier for the marina's artificial entrance channel and residential canal in the 1990s, but the original design accidentally trapped large amounts of seaweed, causing environmental issues, odour, and erosion. Today the seaweed problem has been fixed by reshaping the western breakwater, removing an offshore groyne, and building a new seawall to allow natural ocean currents to move the seaweed without getting trapped.
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Spring is the best time to visit the bird hide, when the water is high and the birds are plentiful. You're also likely to see other wildlife along the trail out here as well, so keep your eyes peeled. Bring bug spray since Ross River Virus has been reported in the area.
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The Possum Spotlighting Trail is designed to be walked at night to increase your chances of spotting possums. However, you can hike it at and time of day and if you're including the bird hide on your walk then daytime would be better.
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A huge brewery right by Busselton's famous jetty! The beer is delicious, so is the food! Brewery tours available!
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The beautiful Busselton Jetty! Walking to the end or taking the little train is a highlight of any visit to Busselton! You can also get a lot of information about the jetty's varied history! I love it!
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A wonderful little brewery with, in my opinion, the best design for their beer cans! :-)) The food tastes great, the beer garden is also great! I absolutely recommend it!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Tuart Forest National Park?
There are 5 distinct hiking trails within Tuart Forest National Park listed on komoot, ranging from easy strolls to moderate walks. These routes allow you to explore the unique Tuart forest ecosystem.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking in Tuart Forest National Park?
Tuart Forest National Park is a haven for unique wildlife. Keep an eye out for the endangered western ringtail possum, brush-tailed phascogales, kangaroos, and quendas (southern brown bandicoots). The forest canopy is also home to various bird species, including the iconic Carnaby's black cockatoo.
Are there any easy or family-friendly walks in Tuart Forest National Park?
Yes, the park offers several easy trails suitable for families. The Possum Spotlighting Trail is a short, easy walk, and the region research indicates some trails, like the Tuart Walk, are accessible to all abilities, including wheelchair users and prams. Most of the trails listed on komoot are rated as 'easy'.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Tuart Forest National Park?
The park is beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly vibrant when wildflowers burst into bloom, adding color to the forest floor. The wetter months can also be interesting for observing various types of fungi. For spotting nocturnal animals like possums, any clear evening is suitable for the dedicated night trail.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Tuart Forest National Park?
The region research does not specify the dog policy for Tuart Forest National Park. It is generally recommended to check the official park regulations regarding pets before your visit to ensure compliance and protect the local wildlife.
What are the main natural features to look out for in Tuart Forest National Park?
The primary natural feature is the magnificent Tuart (Eucalyptus gomphocephala) trees, some of which are 300-400 years old and reach impressive heights. The park protects the largest remaining pure forest of these rare trees. You'll also find rich biodiversity, including unique wildflowers in spring and various fungi during wetter periods, along with an understorey of Tuart grass trees and Banksia species.
Are there any unique experiences or activities besides general hiking?
Absolutely! A unique experience is the self-guided Possum Spotlighting Trail. This 1.5km trail uses reflective markers, allowing you to use a torch to spot nocturnal animals like western ringtail possums and brush-tailed phascogales. For more adventurous activities, Forest Adventures South West, located within the Ludlow Tuart Forest, offers high ropes courses and flying foxes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Tuart Forest National Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.39 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful and unique forest environment, the opportunity to see ancient Tuart trees, and the chance to spot native wildlife, especially on the dedicated possum trail.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, several of the routes listed are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Shelter Brewing Co Busselton – Busselton Jetty loop from Geographe and the Timber Worker Statue – Rocky Ridge TapHouse loop from Busselton.
Are there picnic areas within Tuart Forest National Park?
Yes, the park provides tranquil picnic areas such as Membenup and Layman, offering perfect spots to relax and enjoy your surroundings amidst nature after a hike.
What are the typical elevation gains on trails in Tuart Forest National Park?
The trails in Tuart Forest National Park are generally very flat, making them accessible for most fitness levels. For instance, the Possum Spotlighting Trail has an elevation gain of less than 4 meters, and even longer routes like the Busselton Jetty – Shelter Brewing Co Busselton loop from Busselton have minimal elevation changes, typically under 7 meters.
Most popular routes in Tuart Forest National Park
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