4WD Tracks near Perth

Perth is well-placed for 4WD day trips into the Darling Scarp and the south-west jarrah forest. The Perth Hills — the Darling Range east of the city — start within 30 minutes and extend through Mundaring, Kalamunda, Armadale, and down towards Dwellingup. The jarrah-marri forest is a different character from eastern Australian bushland but gives satisfying easy-medium terrain.

Dwellingup, about 90 minutes south of Perth, is the go-to destination for a proper Perth Hills 4WD day trip — a network of state forest tracks with good signage and free day access. The Stirling Range further south (3–3.5 hours) gives a different environment with mountain approach tracks.

Perth fire weather can be extreme in summer (December through February) — DFES fire restrictions regularly close state forest tracks. Summer 4WD in the Perth Hills requires checking current restrictions the morning you go. Autumn (March through May) is the most reliable season for consistent access.