Looking for a low-cost, high-energy day out in Perth? Lake Leschenaultia, just a 15 minute drive from Mundaring, promises a BIG day out! Entry is FREE, parking is FREE and depending on how you choose to spend your time there, the whole day out could be cheap as (hot) chips. The Perth Hills lake is man-made, created for the steam trains that one serviced the village of Chidlow, a 50-minute drive from Perth city centre. The steam engines used to chug up the hill from John Forrest National Park and were travelling on to Northam, York or stations further east. There are a couple of elements at the lake (like the train playground) which call back to its railway history. Here’s our BIG guide to Lake Leschenaultia in the Perth Hills:
Swimming
For decades, Lake Lesch has been a favourite place for a family day trip. The calm waters of the lake, paired with its sandy gum tree shaded beaches make it the ideal spot for children to paddle in. Of course, it’s a natural body of water which ducks and other creatures (like turtles) live in – so it’s advisable not to swallow any water. Some people worry about leeches, but in our family’s experience these don’t hang around the main swimming area. This roped off corner is free from canoes and other watercraft – but feel free to bring an inflatable flamingo to lounge around in!
Canoes & SUPs
Canoe hire is available through the summer school holidays, and on weekends in warmer months. Or, you can always BYO canoe, Stand up Paddle board or kayak year-round. There are canoes and SUPs available to hire from the canoe shed at the far end of the main beach. It’s lots of fun and a good way to explore the quieter parts of the lake. Get more details on canoe hire here.
Bushwalking
Take an easy bushwalk around the Lake Loop. This flat 3km walking trail around the lake has plenty of nature along the way. Kids can keep their eyes peeled for the resident wildlife which includes Kangaroos, echidnas, big lizards and numerous species of native birds. Back at the lake you’re sure to spot many ducks and parrots – they can be friendly, but please don’t feed them. The lake loop is wide and good for bikes too.
MTB Trails
Want to try the kids on a super easy mountain bike trail? The Railway Run is the best of Lake Leschenaultia’s MTB tracks to start on for kids. The flat 700m trail follows the old mini rail line. The kids will love discovering the old railway station too! With a short ride to the northwest side of the lake, you’ll find the start point (trail head) of the eight more serious MTB trails. These vary in length and difficulty; some even include exhilarating ramps. With names like “Yeehaa” and “Wahoo” they are guaranteed great fun! These trails are brilliant for tweens and teens, Find out more in the Buggybuddys blog.
Pic Credit @Chris.perkin (IG)
Pumptrack
If you want to start the kid’s love of mountain biking early, Lake Lesch is a perfect place to begin, with wide, flat gravel pathways and a fun pump track too. Found near the main entrance, the gentle bumps of the Lake Leschenaultia Pump Track will get the whole family’s heart rate up! Find out more in the Buggybuddys blog.
Picnics
There are lots of picnic tables and BBQs dotted around the lake, under the trees. Even on a busy day, it’s easy to find a perfect spot. Sizzle sausages on one of the free gas BBQs. The lake is a popular spot for group gatherings, like birthday parties – large shelter hire is available through the Shire of Mundaring. There are also several grassy spots, perfect for putting down a picnic rug.
Playground
Found next to the campsite office and kiosk, the beautifully crafted timber train playground features a train and slide, as well as many nature play elements, like stepping logs. Depending on the time of day, there’s natural shade from the trees, as well as a picnic table and a little lawn to sit on. Find out more in the Buggybuddys blog.
The Flackseed Kiosk
The Flackseed offers up easy take aways for those not organised enough to bring along a picnic (like me!). Serving up delicious takeaway eats with a gourmet twist – think house-made ‘AUSage rolls” with a mix of beef and kangaroo meat and 5 hidden veggies, good coffee, nourish bowls, artisan icy poles, plus ice creams with homemade ice magic. After a morning of riding bikes, and playing on the beach, nothing beats their hot chips dusted with house-made seasoning. Find out more in the Buggybuddys blog.
Camping
Want to stay for more than one day? You can camp at Lake Leschenaultia! Camp close to the lake, and enjoy quiet mornings and evenings, before the lake opens to day-visitors. The site has powered and non-powered sites for tents, plus small camper trailers and caravans. There’s a well-equipped camp kitchen too. Why not book a winter stay and enjoy roasting marshmallows on a campfire. Find out more in the Buggybuddys blog.
Lake Leschenaultia is a wonderful place to visit in the Perth Hills at any time of year – be sure to go and discover it for yourself.
Discover more things to do in the Perth Hills Here.
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
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.
