Urban oasis: Exploring green spaces

The City’s natural reserves are perfect for exploring, learning about local wildlife, relaxing, and connecting with nature. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, bird watcher, or simply seeking tranquillity from urban surroundings, the City’s bushland reserves and wetlands offer a range of recreational activities. Explore walking trails, enjoy picnics with family and friends, or participate in both guided and self-guided nature tours.

For children and families, the City's Play Trails App offers a fun way to get outdoors and learn about the environment.

Lake Gwelup is a nature-lovers dream with 20 hectares of wetlands, 35 hectares of natural bush and 20 hectares of parkland – that’s more than double the size of Perth Stadium! Popular with birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts it features multiple walking trails in varying lengths, including the Lake Gwelup Story Trail which is a unique insight into Nyoongar culture, local history, and the area’s rich biodiversity.

Herdsman Lake Regional Park is a wetland oasis and a tranquil location for picnicking, exercising and bird watching. Enjoy the full 7km loop on foot or bike, or take a more relaxed stroll, soaking up the greenery and serene views. Learn more at the Herdsman Lake Discovery Centre, who offer guided walks, nature playgroups and more.

Just off the coast is Trigg Bushland Reserve, ideal for nature lovers. This well-established 3.5km loop trail is surrounded by dense bushland that is filled with native plants and beautiful wildflowers in springtime. If you’re looking to book a private hike for a group of friends, check out The Hike Collective’s private Trigg Bush to Beach guided hike.

The vast Star Swamp Bushland is a 96-hectare reserve and popular walking trail that provides countless opportunities for birdwatching and to see native wildflowers, and a chance encounter with a Quenda, all in the middle of suburbia.

There are many cafes and restaurants within a short walk of our nature reserves. For a perfectly-poured latte, check out Lot Six Zero, Doric St Café and Kitchen or Cove Coffee Trigg . If you fancy a longer lunch, Island Market Trigg or Folk & Merchant have you covered with good quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Other popular spots include Two Slices Sandwich Bar for their gourmet sandwiches, or the popular Yelo North Beach with its laid-back vibe.

Would you like to see your business mentioned in a City of Stirling article? Reach out via ecodevelop@stirling.wa.gov.au