A few years ago we hiked Kitty’s Gorge Trail which takes in the top part of Stacey's Track. It was so pretty we decided to come back to hike this 1.9km loop trail when we were in Jarrahdale exploring some of it's many trails.
This trail is so pretty with lush undergrowth and towering trees. The light filters through the canopy making it all the more magical even in the middle of the day. We passed the magnificent jarrah tree and then went on to the massive marri tree which has been burnt but is still living.
The path is uneven and single file with tree roots providing natural steps as the trail descends to Gooralong Brook. On the way there is a hollow log which you can climb through. We did this on the Kitty’s Gorge walk but not today.
There are no wildflowers out at this time of year (June) . After passing an ancient triple headed balga we crossed a wooden boardwalk which is in need of some repairs. The metal boardwalk allows some lovely reflections in the very still waters of the brook and then we were climbing uphill again on the other side.
The trail follows the line of the brook past more ancient balgas and zamias, crossing a granite outcrop and then descending back to the brook where the old flour mill weir remains can be glimpsed through the undergrowth. Immediately after crossing the bridge – even before you’ve taken the step off the bridge - Stacey’s Track veers off to the left. This is where it splits from Kitty's Gorge Trail which continues down the valley to Serpentine Falls.
The single file path now leads back up the slope past another fallen giant and through a grove of bull banksias back to the trail head. At a fast pace we took 40 minutes to complete the trail. The Jarrahdale maps claim this as a 5km loop but it is much shorter. It wasn’t busy and we only passed a handful of other hikers. This one is definitely on my list of favourite hikes.
Parking is available at Jarrahdale Cemetery or along the road verge on Atkins Road if it's busy. We had a quick wander through Jarrahdale Cemetery which is a mix of old and new graves. I thought the benches were a unique touch and there were many placed along the rows of graves ready for visitors to sit and contemplate.
Toilets, picnic facilities and food outlets are available in town a few minutes drive away. There is plenty more to explore within the Jarrahdale townsite and environs. Click on my A Day in the Country - Jarrahdale and Serpentine blog for more ideas.
To read more blogs go to:
In the spirit of reconciliation Out and About- Family Nature Connection acknowledges the traditional owners of the Wadjak boodjar (Perth land) and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
As always when hiking in the bush please help to reduce the spread of Phytophthora Dieback by sticking to the tracks and paths, staying out of quarantined areas and, if possible, clean your shoes before and after hiking. A spray of 70% methylated spirit and 30% water can be effective.