Lesmurdie Falls

What: Lesmurdie Falls
Where: Lesmurdie Falls National Park Map off Falls Road
When: All year round
Who: All ages
Facilities: Toilets, 3x Picnic benches
Cost: Free

On a not so lazy Sunday morning, hubby, the kids and I made the short drive out to Lesmurdie Falls located in the the Lesmurdie Falls National Park. I felt as if I was in the karri forests of the southwest, but alas, I was still in the 'burbs of Perth, only a 20 minute drive from the city centre.

There are two car parks to access the falls from, one at the top and one at the base of the falls, both accessible off Falls road. We parked at the top carpark as we were completely oblivious to the fact there was another carpark further down the road. If you have little kids or you are not up for the uphill hike to the falls, I would recommend to park at the top carpark. The carpark was about half full when we arrived at 10am, but was near capacity when we left around midday.

Located at the top car park is toilet facilities and 3 large granite picnic benches with shade. Here you will also find a map with marked walk trails. There are 5 walk trails ranging from 300m to 3km return.

Map of the walk trails

We decided to start with the cascade trail and then continue on to the falls. The cascades were off on a not very well marked track, and really weren't worth the detour to see. Back to the main concrete stone path and it was a short non strenuous walk to the first viewing platform. The viewing platform is well fenced on all sides making it fairly safe for all aged kids to admire the view. There are steps, so it isn't suitable to take the pram down with you (however we did see one family carrying their pram down the steps), so either carry/baby wear small children or supervise them well while they walk. I had my baby daughter in a sling, and the toddler was on daddy's back in the Ergo carrier.

Walk track to the viewing platform

The view from the top of the falls is fantastic and well worth the short walk. If you are up to it, you can continue on to the second platform a bit further down the track. The weather was starting to look a bit iffy so we backtracked to the car to get our morning tea picnic and raincoats. We ate our picnic at one of the tables provided, and we were sheltered from the few drops of rain that did fall. 

Between the two viewing platforms. What a sight!

The fenced in viewing platform

We ventured back to where we left off and continued past the second platform to a dirt track which took us to the base of the falls. We made the right decision having both the girls in carriers, as the terrain is a bit rough and at that time of year very slippery and muddy. Once at the base of the falls we let our daughter out of the carrier, but the area was still a bit too dangerous for her, as there are no railings around, and she refused to hold either of our hands, stating she could "do it herself!"

On the way back up, we had a lot of fun pointing out all the different flowers, and taking the time to "smell the roses" or catch our breath which was the case for me. I managed to make it back to the top in one piece and even enjoyed myself along the way (I usually HATE uphill ascents!). 

Beautiful wildflowers

The perfect time to visit Lesmurdie Falls is in spring when the falls are flowing well and there is an abundance of beautiful wildflowers in bloom.

Our two year old had a blast, and talked about the waterfalls for many days after. We can't wait to return for a not so lazy Sunday again soon!

At the base of the falls