Looking for a fab family hike? The good news is that Paruna Wildlife Sanctuary in Gidgegannup has reopened part of its trails network. After being closed for over a year following 2025 storm damage, the team at Australian Wildlife Conservancy have worked hard to get things back on track – and bookings for the stunning Possum Loop are open for the rest of the fenced reserve’s hiking season.
A few things to know before you go: You’ll need to book in advance through the Australian Wildlife Conservancy website (no just turning up), and you’ll need a pin code to enter through the gates. Bring your own water, and dogs can’t come along. The cost is just $11 per person, which I was happy to pay – a small contribution towards the wonderful conservation work that keeps these trails running and protected.
This is the easy walk of the three trails at Paruna, but “easy” certainly doesn’t mean boring. The other two trails remain closed (Quenda Circuit and Numbat Trail) and are infamous for having a crazy number of steps and are only suitable for fit hikers. The 2.3km Possum loop is a great taster for those of us that like a gentler stroll and takes about 90 minutes depending on pace and stops to look at all the wildflowers.
The trail winds through colourful wildflower-lined paths with winter creeks, bridges, boardwalks and steps through the wandoo woodlands.
The walk culminates at the stunning Pink Rock Lookout, which is gorgeous for a spot to stop and soak in those Perth Hills views and refuel with a snack.
Plus, you’ve got a decent shot at spotting possums, echidnas or lizards along the way – kids will absolutely love that part. We saw majestic black cockatoos squawking above, a blue tongue lizard, and shy tiny wrens flitting through the bush. I think if we wanted to see more wildlife, we should have arrived much earlier in the day!
What makes this walk great for families is that it’s manageable. There are a lot of steps, but they are generally spread out and in short sections. You’re not encouraging them up very steep terrain or worrying whether little legs will make it to the end. I had minimal whining from the teenager.
The grading is listed as moderate, which is spot-on for the undulating terrain, and toilets (at the main entrance), parking and picnic areas are all there, so you can make a few hours of it.
There’s a fairly long drive out to the sanctuary, but if you’re looking for a feed before or after, Gidgegannup Bakery is your best bet.
The Possum Loop is open for bookings until November 1, so there’s not much time to squeeze in a visit before the 2026 season winds down. Usually, the sanctuary is open for hikes May to October. Leave no trace, and get ready for a pretty little adventure in the Perth Hills.
Find Paruna Sanctuary on Clenton Road in Gidgegannup.
Discover more things to do in the Perth Hills here.
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Amanda Carlin has her own food and travel blog. Established in 2013, (first as “The Chef, His Wife and Their Perth-fect Life”) Amanda loves getting out and about in Perth and WA for her blog ‘Simply PERTHfect’. You’ll find her checking out the newest foodie spots, as well as lots of WA travel, and fun family activities with the kiddos in tow. Part of a blended family of 6, Amanda always has plenty of family friendly recs. Be sure to check out Simply PERTHfect.
