Serpentine Falls is what summer dreams are made of and can be found just an hour out of Perth! Spend a day swimming and walking local trails.

 

We Are Explorers acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Countries on which these adventures take place who have occupied and cared for these lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

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Quick Overview

This stunning waterfall features a grassy picnic area with tables, BBQs, and accessible toilets. You’ll also encounter some of Australia’s fantastic flora and fauna!

Read more: Waterfall & Swimming Hole Safety

Serpentine Falls Facts

Distance: 200m – AKA bugger all
Entry Fee: $17 per vehicle or free if you own a National Parks pass (more info on Explore Parks WA)
Opening hours: 8:30am – 5:00pm daily

How to Get to Serpentine Falls

Pop onto the Kwinana Freeway south until you hit Mundijong Road. Take a left onto Mundijong Road and then a right onto South Western Highway. Turn down Falls Road and cruise on until you reach Serpentine Falls.

Nearby Accommodation

Skill Level

Beginner

It’s a pretty easy 200m trek to the falls, you won’t be breaking much of a sweat.

Essential Gear for Serpentine Falls

  • Your finest swimming attire and a towel
  • Plenty of snacks
  • Hiking boots
  • Water bottle
  • Camera (head during winter to see the falls flowing at full tilt)
  • Hat
  • Sunscreen

Read more: Remember to leave no trace!

What It’s Like to Go to Serpentine Falls

Slither out of the big smoke and hop on the freeway heading south.

We hit the road pretty early so we’d arrive when the pools open at 8:30 am in an attempt to avoid the crowds.

In the summer months, when the park has reached capacity, the rangers will close the entry gate.

So set that alarm because the early bird gets the rock pool when it’s not busy.

Upon arrival, after you’ve paid your entry fee and parked in the falls car park, a little dirt track will lead you up to the viewing platform for the falls.

The lead up is also wheelchair and pram friendly, hooray! This national park was declared in 1957, and received its name from early settlers due to the snake-like shape of the river.

Serpentine Falls is without a doubt the main attraction of the national park and lies in a valley at the foot of the Darling Scarp.

 

 

Now, feast your eyes on Serpentine Falls in all its glory. With a steady stream of water flowing down the granite rock face in the distance and two luscious emerald swimming holes front and centre, it’s easy to see why these falls are the park’s namesake.

Pick out a spot on the rocky platform (which is ideal for sunbathing) and be sure to bombie into a wild swim without delay.

The picnic area plays host to a variety of facilities including tables, BBQs, toilets, and shaded areas, making it a perfect place to sit with family and friends for a bite.

You’re likely to see a few roos hanging about the picnic area as well so say hello, but remember not to feed our furry friends!

 

This is the glorious second pool

Other Hikes Near Serpentine Falls

You’ll also have access to a triplet of bushwalks from the picnic area, namely:

  • Falls Walk Trail (400m walk) – A short gravel track leading up to a viewing platform for the falls. Still counts.
  • Baldwins Bluff Nature Track (6km return) – A track leading you to the top of the Falls escarpment, where you’ll be greeted with panoramic views at the summit.
  • Kitty’s Gorge Walk Track (14km return)  – This walking track follows the Gooralong Brook, which feeds the falls and is perfect for catching a glimpse at the wildflower display during the springtime.

If you’re keen on a bushwalk, the best time of year is around spring when the temperatures are ideal for hiking and the gorgeous native wildflowers come into bloom.

Want to get the hair wet? Read more: Day Trip to Lesmurdie Falls

FAQs for Serpentine Falls

Is it safe to swim at Serpentine Falls?

Yes, it is currently safe to swim at Serpentine Falls. Always check Explore Parks WA before visiting – the falls have had brain-eating amoebas in it before.

Can I bring my dog to Serpentine Falls?

No Fidos allowed on this one, it’s in a national park! If you’re stuck for ideas on dog adventures, try these ten.

This piece was brought to you by a real living human who felt the wind in their hair and described their adventure in their own words. This is because we rate authenticity and the sharing of great experiences in the natural world – it’s all part of our ethos here at We Are Explorers. You can read more about it in our Editorial Standards.