There are canola fields near Perth that bloom during wildflower season. They’re in the rustic town of York, and they’re calling your name.

 

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on Ballardong Nation, the traditional Country of the Ballardong Noongar people who have occupied and cared for this land and water for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded

About York Canola Fields

The township of York is located in the Avon Valley, 1 hour east of Perth. The Canola fields of this area flower from early August to mid-September. The area boasts gorgeous rolling fields of bright yellow flowers that bring the landscape to life.

Read more: 5 of the Best Hikes Near Perth

How to Get To York Canola Fields

From Perth, drive east along the National and Great Southern highways. The trip should take around 1.5 hours.

Places to Stay in York

For a classic caravan park with campsites, toilets, BBQs and all the essential facilities look no further than York Travelers Rest Caravan Park.

Here you will find a variety of offerings including tent sites, powered sites, caravan and motorhome sites set against a gorgeous natural bush setting.

If more indoors than outdoors is your thing, head to the Nosh & Nod for a charming selection of single, double and family rooms, situated conveniently in the historic town of York.

 

Things to Do in York

Visit York Canola Fields

Obviously, if you’re going to York between the months of August and September, the canola fields are a must-see. The spooling seas of yellow litter the area and can be seen from many roadsides around York.

While the fields of yellow are alluring, its important to remember that these are the crops of farmers and by trespassing you risk both their livelihood and the health of the crop.

If you want to frolic amongst the flowers a great option is petteet park. The 100 acre stud farm opens to the public during the canola season for a small admission fee. The farm also boasts a farm animal petting area and a kids playground.

 

Climb Mt Brown

Mt Brown is just 5 minutes from the centre of York and is a  great way to spend a few hours outdoors. Standing at 342m above sea level, the lookout from the top of Mt Brown provides a 360 panoramic view of the York township.

There are gas BBQs, toilets and picnic tables at the lookout, making it an ideal place to have lunch or watch the sun set.

 

york western australia, cedric tang

Skill Level

Beginner

Distance / Duration

98km/1.5 hours

 

 

Essential Gear

  • Enclosed shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Pre-packed lunch and snacks for the road
  • Camera
  • Your excited self and mates!

Read more: Remember to leave no trace!

Experience of Visiting York Canola Fields

Wildflower season in Western Australia kicks off in the north of the state in June, before moving down to the south coast by November.

While wildflowers aren’t restricted, the canola fields are opened up on weekends for viewing. Hit up the York website for opening times and information about the blooms.

The weather had been treating Perth with grey skies and rain-filled days since the middle of the week. Wanting a slice of fresh air, I decided to check the weather forecast.

Seeing that the sun would be greeting us with warm arms the next day, we quickly decided on a trip to the town of York to see the canola fields. So the next morning, we grabbed our coffee, cameras, and backpacks and embarked on the drive east from Perth.

The drive consisted of hills and green pastures on either side, views of faraway Perth from the Darling Ranges, and a chat about the things of life. As we started coming closer to our awaited destination, my body exalted with sheer elation at the sight of the canola fields.

Upon arrival, the first move on our itinerary was Mt Brown, located just a short five-minute drive from York. After a couple of awe-inspired proclamations over the peak, we unpacked our bags and had our prepped lunch. I’d much rather have lunch at the top of a peak than a fine and fancy restaurant.

After a short hike in and around Mt Brown, our next move was toward the canola fields. Upon seeing the waves of canola and the green hills in the back, our excited selves couldn’t help but point toward the yellows strands that moved with the wind.

We found a place to stop, got out of the car and quickly galloped toward the sea of yellow, leaving behind my car window half-open (I don’t recommend leaving your windows open; I’ve heard there are some smart kangaroos in York that can supposedly drive cars).

At last… the canola fields of York. We’d found what we were looking for.

Please note! The canola fields in the wheat belt are important crops for farmers. Look to your heart’s content, but please don’t touch or trample the fields.

York Canola Fields FAQs

Where is York located?

York is located 1.5 hours inland from Perth

When is the best time of year to visit the Canola fields?

The best time of year to go to York is between August and September when you know for sure the fields will be bursting bright yellow.

Do you need a 4WD to get to York canola fields?

No! the Canola fields are all 2WD accessible.

What is Canola?

Canola is a crop grown for its oil-rich seed that is used to make commercial cooking oil and biofuel.