The many secrets of Yanchep National Park

Just 45 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Perth’s CBD, Yanchep National Park is one of WA’s best-kept gems—a place where towering gums, glassy lakes, and wildlife galore are all in a day’s wander.

Article by Kate Gibson/The Hike Collective

Whether you’re keen to soak up a slice of local history, spot koalas chilling in the treetops, or hit the trails and stretch your legs, Yanchep has a little bit of magic for everyone. Ready to explore? Here’s your go-to guide for uncovering all its natural wonders:

What’s so special about Yanchep National Park?

Yanchep National Park’s got it all—rich cultural stories, wildlife that’ll stop you in your tracks, and jaw-dropping natural scenery. Whether you’re keen to explore trails, kick back and watch some local wildlife, or just soak up the serenity, there’s plenty to uncover here. And don’t be surprised if the park throws a few unexpected gems your way (trust us, there’s more than a couple of secrets to discover).

It’s a cracking spot for a day trip, but if you want to settle in and make a weekend of it, you’re in luck. There are heaps of picnic spots, camping areas, and even an old inn that’s packed with character, all ready to welcome you for a longer stay.

How to get there

Getting to Yanchep National Park is as easy as hopping on the Mitchell Freeway and heading north. Take
the Romeo Road exit, and follow the signs along Wanneroo Road—simple as that. Once you arrive, there’s plenty of parking near the Visitor Centre, and an entry fee of $15 per vehicle gets you access to all this natural beauty. Definitely worth every dollar!

What to bring

• Comfy shoes: With all those trails and adventures, your feet will thank you.
• Water and snacks: Even though there are some great picnic spots, it’s always good to be prepared.
• Camera: You’ll want to capture every moment of this stunning park.

Top 5 things to do in Yanchep National Park

1. Say G’day to the roos
No visit to Yanchep is complete without spotting the park’s local celebs—the western grey kangaroos. Whether it’s in the early morning or just as the sun starts to dip, these chilled-out roos can be found lounging in the grassy picnic areas, looking like they’ve got nowhere else to be. It’s a true Aussie moment, but just remember to keep your distance!

2. Explore the Crystal Cave
Yanchep’s hidden gem, the Crystal Cave, is an underground wonderland waiting to be discovered. Recently reopened after renovations, you can once again take a guided tour through its cool, dark chambers and you’ll find mind-blowing stalactites and stalagmites that have been slowly forming for millions of years. It’s the perfect way to escape the summer heat and dive into a whole new world beneath the surface—trust us, this is one cave you won’t want to miss.

3. Walk the Ghost House Trail
For those keen on a bit of adventure, the Ghost House Trail is a 12.4km loop through Yanchep’s ever-changing landscapes. From wetlands to woodlands, it’s a walk that keeps you guessing. The highlight? Passing by the eerie ruins of the Ghost House, an old homestead that’s now little more than crumbling stone. It’s got that spooky, forgotten vibe that adds a bit of mystery to your hike—perfect for those who like their trails with a side of history.

4. Wander the Koala Boardwalk
Who says you need to travel east to see koalas? Yanchep’s got its very own Koala Boardwalk, where you can stroll along the treetops and spot these sleepy little legends dozing away in the eucalyptus trees. They might take a bit of time to spot, but once you find one, it’s like striking wildlife gold. Yanchep’s one of the few places in WA where you can see koalas, so don’t miss your chance to say hi!

5. Discover Loch McNess
Loch McNess is one of the most peaceful spots in the park. It’s a freshwater lake surrounded by shady paperbark tree.. Bring a picnic, kick back by the water’s edge, and soak in the serenity. You might notice jetties tucked alongside the lake. Up until the last decade you could launch a boat on Loch McNess, but now these jetties serve as a reminder of the hey-day.

Cultural and historical highlights

Yanchep National Park isn’t just about stunning scenery and wildlife—it’s also steeped in rich Aboriginal history. The Noongar people have been connected to this land for thousands of years, and their stories are woven into the very landscape. The Wangi Mia Aboriginal experience is an absolute must if you want to dive deeper into this incredible cultural heritage. You’ll get the chance to hear traditional stories, learn about bush tucker, and discover the deep connection the Noongar people have with this land.

Treetops Adventure

Want to take your Yanchep experience to new heights? The Treetops Adventure Park is your ticket to an adrenaline rush! High up in the towering eucalypts, you’ll navigate ropes, zip lines, and obstacles that challenge you to see the park from a whole new angle.

Cabaret Cave

This incredible underground space, once a swanky ballroom back in the ‘30s, is now the setting for some seriously chill experiences. The Hike Collective offers guided yoga in the cool, calm depths of the cave, where the natural rock formations create a serene, otherworldly vibe. It’s the perfect way to unwind—stretch out, breathe deep, and let the cave’s ancient energy recharge you.

Chocolate Drops

Feeling peckish after all that exploring? Swing by Chocolate Drops for a sweet little pit stop. This cosy café is tucked away in the heritage-listed tearooms and serves up the kind of handmade chocolates that dreams are made of. From rich hot chocolates to gourmet treats you can take home, Chocolate Drops adds that extra bit of indulgence to your Yanchep day out. Trust us, you won’t want to leave without sampling a few of their goodies!

Final tips

Yanchep National Park is all about slowing down and taking it all in. Whether you’re keen to learn about Aboriginal culture, discover hidden caves, or simply enjoy the peaceful beauty of Loch McNess, this park has a way of making you feel totally in tune with nature. Spend a day or stay a little longer—either way, Yanchep will leave you feeling refreshed and connected to the wild.