F.R. Berry Reserve Walk Trail: Everything you need to know
F.R. Berry Reserve in on Wooroloo Brook in Gidgegannup is growing in its popularity as a hotspot for untouched forests and native fauna.
With its stunning array of wildflowers including yellow wattles, vivid blue leschenaultia and unique varieties that can’t be found anywhere else on earth, F.R. Berry Reserve is becoming one of WA’s main attractions and its walk trail is the best way to see it all, with several access points to Wooroloo Brook and it’s remarkable rock formations and waterfalls.
What is it?
The F.R. Berry Reserve is the largest nature reserve in the City of Swan and covers 214 hectares (529 acres) of land. Recognised for its commendable conservation values in the early 1960s, there are several vegetation communities at the reserve including Jarrah, Marri and Wandoo woodlands, Melaleuca (paperbark) fringed creek lines and granite outcrops accommodating a vast diversity of species.
The area also provides the perfect habitat for a delightful variety of our Western Australian fauna including the Honey Possum, Mardo, Gould’s Monitor, Bobtail, Western Green Tree Frog, Weebill, Splendid Fairy Wren, the migratory Rainbow Bee Eater and the endangered Carnaby’s Cockatoo. The reserve is home to several species of rare flora, some of which are unique to the area and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The 2.7km walk trail is lined with photos of some of the fauna species that you may be lucky enough to see during the 45 minute walk.
Where is it?
The trail starts at Reen Road, off Toodyay Road in Gidgegannup. To get there you’ll need to take Roe Hwy and exit at Toodyay Rd heading east. Follow this up the hill and turn left at Reen Rd and then travel around 9km down Reen Rd before seeing a sign post for F.R. Berry Reserve on the left. Since the trail access is road, you’ll have no trouble getting there in a 2WD.
What to do:
The best time of year to walk this trail is from mid autumn to late spring. Although, the reserve has all the necessary facilities to keep you comfortable outdoors all year round, with BBQ facilities, a picnic area, a public toilet and car park.
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Minimal bushwalking experience is required for this trail – it’s mostly even surface with no steps or steep sections and it is suitable for wheelchair users with someone to assist them. You don’t have to leave your furry friend at home either, with dogs permitted as long as they are kept on a leash at all times.
Make sure to pack a large water bottle, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (30+) and insect repellent. Dress appropriately for the activity and potential weather conditions and don’t forget to bring your camera so you can snap some photos of the extraordinary native fauna – or even bring a pair of binoculars to see it all up close.
What not to do:
If you decide to take on this trail with your pup, do not let it off its leash at any time. Also make sure you adhere to the Leave No Trace Principles, don’t leave any rubbish, don’t pick any wildflowers, look after our nature and do your best to leave no trace of yourself after completing the trail.
Find more information about the F.R. Berry Reserve Walk Trail via Trails WA.
Image Credit: City Of Swan