If you’re looking to get back in touch with nature again this weekend, visit Bells Rapids in Brigadoon to explore its scenic streams & bush walking trails.
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For a relaxing way to spend a Sunday afternoon, head down to Bells Rapids in the tranquil countryside of Perth.
Bells Rapids on Cathedral Avenue in Brigadoon (City of Swan) is about a 40 minute drive from Perth CBD and is an exciting viewing spot to view the white water rapids while surrounded by natural bushland. It sits on the edge of the Darling Scarp, and is where the Avon and Swan rivers meet in the Northern reaches of the Swan Valley.
Here, you can explore streams and waterfalls with the option to go on a unique circuit walk trail that gives you scenic views of both the countryside and coastal plains of the Avon River.
I went to Bells Rapids for the first time last Sunday with awesome company and really enjoyed myself!
On our way there, we stopped by a cute road-shop that sold oranges and fresh orange juice. A great Vitamin C kickstart to the morning. See this is what I love about the region of Swan Valley, it makes you feel like you’re much further away from Perth city than you actually are. It really is peaceful out there and very charming.
From the top of the road you get your first glimpses of the idyllic valley that is Jumbuck Hill Park.
To access the Bells Rapids, you have to go via a gravel road which leads to a car parking area. Just a word of warning – slow down when you see the end of the road. The steep track down into the valley is only one lane and its blind – so no more than 15kph should be needed. There’s no need to rush anyway down this road.
Winter is the best time to visit Bells Rapids to see the river bustling in action over the boulders. As the rain comes, the Avon swells, turning the peaceful rocky trickle into a torrent of white water fun.
The scenic walk along the Swan River, home of the famous Avon Descent, is popular here for its great vantage point to view the rapids go well, off their nuts. That’s Aussie sang for they go really fast.
The number one activity in the wet season here is of course, white water kayaking. Adrenaline junkies take advantage of the bumpy stretch of rapids here, putting their lives in nature’s hands in the annual Avon Descent White Water Race. Bells Rapids is a prime viewing spot to watch these competitors race. In fact, it is a great vantage point in general to sit down for a picnic during winter at any time – as winter is when the rapids are in full swing.
With that being said, note that Bells Rapids is not recommended for swimming. Personally, if there is one thing I’ve learned from Pierce Brosnan’s 1997 film Dante’s Peak, is to never swim in isolated rocky pool water areas where I’m not supposed to anyway. Respect the environment and protect yourself! Check yourself before you wreck yourself, yo.
Be on the look out for the beautiful grey kangaroos in the area, they can be seen here at certain times of the year in abundance.
The number one activity in the wet season here is of course, white water kayaking. Adrenaline junkies take advantage of the bumpy stretch of rapids here, putting their lives in nature’s hands in the annual Avon Descent White Water Race. Bells Rapids is a prime viewing spot to watch these competitors race. In fact, it is a great vantage point in general to sit down for a picnic during winter at any time – as winter is when the rapids are in full swing.
Lots of majestic boulders. I like that boulder, that is a nice boulder.
If you have a fetish for boulders, then you will LOVE Bells Rapids. Lol!
On the Sunday we went, many families sat alongside the rushing waters for relaxation. Dogs are permitted here but it is requested they are to be put on leashes.
So if you’re looking for a place not far from Perth in the Swan Valley region where you can walk alongside rushing white waters rapids (in Winter) and you can enjoy scenic views of both countryside and flowing water – then yeah, Bells Rapids is your place. It’s such a nice picnic spot to take the family and is a great idea for a romantic date.
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The Bells Rapids Walk Trail: Download the Bell’s Rapids Walk Trail Guide here.
Want to cycle the region of Swan Valley?: Download the Transperth Swan Valley ‘Cycling in the Swan Valley & Guildford’ Guide here.
Want to view the Bells Rapids at the annual Avon Descent whitewater race?: Click here for the official Avon Descent website
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Location:
Cathedral Avenue, Brigadoon, Western Australia
Phone: 08 9739 9400
Email: visitorcentre@swan.wa.gov.au
Website: www.swanvalley.com.au
Opening times:
Accessible all year.
