If you’re looking for a day out in the Perth Hills that ticks all the boxes – that’s nature, history, and plenty of space for the kids to run wild – take a drive to Canning Dam. Found a short drive from Roleystone, this spot is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve escaped to the country, without actually having gone far at all.
Canning Dam is absolutely beautiful. Of course, the best thing to do here is walk along the dam wall. The sweeping views are stunning, especially in late winter after a good rainfall. There’s something peaceful about looking out over the water, with bushland stretching as far as the eye can see.
For families, it’s always a good idea to tech the kids to know where their water comes from and why we need to be water wise. There are picnic facilities with plenty of grassy, shady spots to spread out a rug, so you can settle in for a relaxed lunch. The lower picnic area, where the huge water pipeline passes through, is especially lovely. A handy fenced playground provides enough entertainment for the kids to burn off energy while you enjoy a cuppa (remember to pack a thermos). If you’re lucky, you might even spot a kangaroo or two in the early morning, and the birdlife here will delight little nature lovers.
There’s BBQs and public toilets there too.
If you’re up for a bit of exploring, there are walking trails that wind through the area, some short and sweet for little legs, and others a bit longer if you’re feeling adventurous. The Historical Walk Trail takes you past fascinating historical features, like the old contour channel and stilling chamber, and up to the dam wall, so there’s a bit of learning mixed in with the fun.
If you’re not up for a walk, you can also drive and park closer to the dam wall – there’s just a few steps to walk up.
Canning Dam is open every day (until 6pm, or 5pm from May to October), and there’s plenty of parking on site. Just remember, much to my fishing mad son’s disappointment, there is no fishing or swimming is allowed as it’s a protected water supply. If one dam isn’t enough, there are two more nearby!
Wungong Dam is about 15 minutes’ drive south. Here there’s a dam wall to walk across and a beautiful bird mural.
And my personal favourite for picnics, Churchman Brook Dam, found closer to Roleystone.
Next time you’re craving a bit of fresh air and family time, pop Canning Dam on your list. It’s one of those Perth Hills spots that’s perfect for swapping screen time for green time.
Find Canning Dam at Canning Dam Road, Ashendon. (not too far from Araluen Botanical Park)
Discover more things to do in Perth Hills Armadale here.
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Amanda Carlin has her own food and travel blog. Established in 2013, “The Chef, His Wife and Their Perth-fect Life” has enjoyed an exciting name change in 2021, as “The Chef’s Ex-wife” embarks on new adventures with Simply PERTHfect. Amanda loves getting out and about in Perth and WA, as well as brunching, tapas or something a little fancy in equal measures. With her son “Little Chef” in tow, Amanda always has plenty of family friendly eating options to recommend too! Be sure to check out Simply PERTHfect.
