Rocky Pool, Kalamunda: Everything you need to know

For adventuring closer to the city, Kalamunda has something for everyone.

From exciting mountain bike trials to more relaxed bushflower walks, you can get wonderfully lost just a quick 20 minute drive from the city.

Rocky Pool is one such area, offering an intermediate-level walk culminating in a rather lovely freshwater pool. Here’s what you need to know.

What is it?

Rocky Pool Walk is a 5km walking trail within the Kalamunda National Park that goes by the Rocky Pool freshwater hole. The trail itself is medium to hard in some sections, with a few steep descents on loose gravel, and is also connected to the Bibbulmun Track.

Where is it?

The walk officially kicks off at the end of Spring Road in Kalamunda, which is around a 30-minute drive east of Perth. The walk runs in a 5km loop that culminates in Rocky Pool itself before coming back around to Spring Road. If you don’t feel like doing the walk, you can head to the Rocky Pool parking area at the end of Schipp Road instead, and from there it’s a short walk directly to the pool.

What to do:

Bring a good pair of hiking books and plenty of water! The walk itself is Grade 5 as there are some steep sections with loose gravel. If you’re embarking from the end of Spring Road, make sure you head left first, as it means you end up going down most of the biggest slopes instead of up (this is a good guide).

Depending on the time of year you can go for a dip in the swimming hole itself, although you’ll always be able to at least dip your feet in after a few kilometres trekking!

What not to do:

Head right when you’re embarking from Spring Road! Sure it’ll get you to Rocky Pool quicker, but after that is some seriously steep descents.

If you’re walking during summer, try to avoid hot days as it can get pretty intense out there, and make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to get back before dark (the walk should around 2-3 hours).

Anything else?

Keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildflowers and wildlife in the area. Heading there around September/October will offer some spectacular wildflower viewing, while its very common to spot kangaroos and quendas if you’re keen-eyed.

Header Image: Shutterstock / Nyrelle Hawkins