Bells Rapids in Brigadoon is one of those Perth spots that feels like a proper day trip while still being an easy drive from the suburbs. Tucked away where the Avon and Swan rivers meet, it’s a beautiful bush escape that’s perfect for families who love walks, picnics and exploring nature with the kids.
As you arrive at Bells Rapids Park along Cathedral Avenue, you’ll find a large gravel car park and toilets at the top of the hill. From here, a steep and uneven dirt path leads down to the iconic wooden footbridge across the river. It’s worth noting for families with young children that this path is not pram‑ or wheelchair‑friendly, and you’ll want to hold little hands, especially in wet weather when it can be slippery.
The bridge is usually the first big “wow” moment for kids. It stretches over the river and gives you fantastic views of the rapids below. During the wetter months, the water really roars through here, and it’s a popular vantage point for watching the annual Avon Descent white‑water race. Children will love standing on the bridge to watch kayakers tackle the fast‑flowing water and spotting birds and other wildlife.
In winter and spring, the whole area comes alive with lush greenery and wildflowers. Families can wander along the riverbanks, discovering bursts of colour from native blooms such as acacias and grevilleas, and keep an eye out for kangaroos grazing on the hillsides. This is a great time to bring a camera and turn it into a mini nature‑spotting adventure with the kids.
During the drier summer months, the character of Bells Rapids changes. The water level drops, the rapids calm, and shallow pools and rocky sections appear along the river. While it can be tempting to paddle or splash, always take care around the water, supervise children closely, and check current conditions and any signage before letting kids go near the river’s edge. There’s plenty of natural shade from the surrounding trees, which makes it a pleasant spot to retreat with a picnic on a hot day.
Bells Rapids is also known for its walking trails, which are a great way to burn off some energy. The River Walk is approximately 2.5km (around 45 minutes return) and follows the river, mostly flat with just a short rocky section. This trail is a good option for families with school‑aged children who are used to walking. The Goat Walk is about 3km (around 1 hour 15 minutes) and is more challenging, with steeper sections and loose gravel underfoot. It rewards you with sweeping views over the river, surrounding hills and coastal plain, but it’s best suited to older kids and adults with a reasonable level of fitness.
Facilities at Bells Rapids are basic but adequate for a nature outing. There are public toilets near the car park, and plenty of open, grassy and rocky spots along the river where you can spread out a picnic blanket. There are no picnic tables or Playgrounds, so it’s very much a “pack your own” bush experience – think picnic rugs, snacks, plenty of water and perhaps a thermos of hot chocolate in the cooler months. Rubbish bins may be limited, so plan to take your rubbish home with you.
Because Bells Rapids is a natural bush area, it’s also important to be mindful of local wildlife and seasonal conditions. Snakes can be present in warmer months, so keep kids on the tracks, wear closed‑in shoes and avoid long grass. In fire season, always check for any closures or alerts before you go, and obey all signage regarding campfires and barbecues (open fires are often prohibited in summer due to high fire risk).
Whether you visit in winter to see the dramatic rushing water or in summer for a more relaxed riverside wander, Bells Rapids offers a beautiful, low‑cost day out in nature. It’s an easy way to introduce children to bushwalking, wildflowers and local wildlife, and to enjoy a peaceful escape from the city without travelling too far.
Bells Rapids
Address:
Cathedral Avenue, Brigadoon WA 6069
Opening hours:
Open daily; day‑use park (check for seasonal fire or safety closures before visiting).
Official website:
City of Swan – Bells Rapids Park
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Kellie Elliott is an adventurous mum of four who’s turning Perth into her playground! When she’s not busy wrangling her little ones, you can find her on Instagram at Perth Mum Adventures, where she shares all her exciting adventures. From exploring new playgrounds to discovering off-the-beaten-path treasures, Kellie’s knack for turning everyday outings into thrilling adventures will leave you inspired and ready to explore the best that Perth has to offer!
