The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has a diversity of trails to explore on foot or by bicycle. They are a great way to get closer to nature, improve physical and mental health and explore the region.
Margaret River Trail Network
Use this map to explore the seven trails in Margaret River or see each individual trail map and description below.
Experience the diversity of the Margaret River Region including European and Aboriginal history, natural environments and local industries.
The Wadandi Track showcases the heritage of the former Busselton to Flinders Bay Railway including the industries and communities which it served from 1884 to 1957.
Open to walkers and cyclists, the track allows people to experience the diversity of the Margaret River Region including the rich local history, Aboriginal and heritage values, natural environment and local industries.
Users are treated to spectacular sights and sounds along the track including pristine forests, plantations, vineyards, agricultural land and granite outcrops.
Located in one of the world’s 34 biodiversity hotspots, the track is an excellent place to see some of the range of rare flora and fauna found in Australia’s South West.
History
The railway line was built in the 1880s by prominent timber businessman M.C. Davies, who laid a number of lines to take timber from his mills to jetties at Hamelin Bay and Flinders Bay for export.
By 1916 the timber industry had declined and the railway from Augusta to Margaret River was bought by the WA Government.
It was extended to Busselton by 1925 to service the remaining timber industry, the original group settlements, farming and domestic passengers.
As the road network improved, more of the cartage was done by trucks and the Busselton to Flinders Bay branch railway eventually closed in 1957, after which most of the rail line and sleepers were salvaged for other uses. A handful of sleepers and rail line can still be spotted today and some major elements of the railway infrastructure remain in place. These include the original railway formation, cuttings, embankments and many of the bridges and culverts.
Since the closure of the railway, several roads and some public facilities have been constructed on the trail reserve.
Some parts of the reserve were leased to adjoining landowners. While all of these leases have lapsed or were terminated, some of the activities that were permitted under the conditions of these leases are still taking place within the reserve – including grazing, plantations, dams and quarrying of local resources.
Accessibility
The Wadandi Track is built on a former railway line. Its hard, unsealed surface is wide with some gentle gradients. No bushwalking experience is required. It has no steps or steep sections and is suitable for wheelchair use in summer. Sections of the track are not well drained and may become muddy and unsuitable for wheelchair use during winter.
Facilities
Parking
Parking is available at the following locations:
- Cowaramup – Bussell Hwy, Hall Road and next to the Fire Station at the trail head
- Carters Road – gravel car park
- Margaret River – Rotary Park, Fearn Ave behind the shops and the Margaret River Recreation Centre on Wallcliffe Road
- Gnarawary Road – gravel car park
- Witchcliffe – Bussell Hwy and Redgate Road fronting the tennis courts
Public toilets
Public toilets are available at the following locations:
- Cowaramup – next to the Fire Station in Pioneer Park and Cowaramup Hall
- Margaret River – Rotary Park, Old Settlement, Memorial Park, Fearn Avenue and the skate park on Wallcliffe Road
- Witchcliffe – Bussell Hwy
This section of the Wadandi Track runs between Cowaramup and Sebbes Road. The trail passes through natural bushland, vineyards and farmland to provide bike riders and walkers with a diverse landscape to enjoy.
Fitness Level Required
Easy (Class 2)
Sections that run along the former railway line average an approximate gradient of 1%. Walkers and cyclists should note that the gradient may vary for short sections where the track is not constructed on the original railway alignment.
How to get to the Wadandi Track
From Margaret River
- Dual use path along Wallcliffe Road approximately for 1km
- Alfred Bussell trail and follow the signs to access the Wadandi track north or south approximately for 1.2km
From Cowaramup
- Through Pioneer Park and along Memorial Drive for 500m
From Witchcliffe
- West along Redgate Road for 300m
Code of Conduct
Share the trail
- Keep to the left
- Cyclist give way to pedestrians
- Give clear warning before passing
- Give way when entering or crossing the trail
Leave no trace
- Keep on the trail
- Do not pick wildflowers or feed wildlife
- Leave farm gates as you find them
- Take your rubbish (including food scraps) home with you
Plan ahead
- Notify someone of your start and finish location and times
- Wear appropriate footwear and clothing
- Check your bike, helmet and gear
- Carry drinking water and drink regularly
- Do not use trail in extreme weather
- Be aware of snakes
Further Information
For further information about the Wadandi Track, contact the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.
T: (08) 9780 5255 | E: [email protected]
amrshire.wa.gov.au
You can download the Wadandi Track brochure. A printed version will also be available from Shire offices and local visitor centres soon.
An interactive trail map is available online.
The Alfred Bussell Trail is a moderate walk and cycle trail that provides access from Margaret River town centre to the Wadandi Track and mountain bike trails located north of Carters Road.
Users may experience minor natural hazards such as short, steep sections, steps and uneven or slippery surfaces. A good level of fitness is recommended.
An interactive trail map is available online.
Minnie Keenan Trail is a linking trail between Rotary Park and the Wadandi Track (Carters Road). This moderate trail is only suitable for walkers.
Users may encounter minor natural hazards such as short, steep sections and uneven or slippery surfaces. A good level of fitness is recommended.
An interactive trail map is available online.
Accessed through the historic Old Settlement Precinct, Barrett Street Trail is a walk and cycle trail that provides access to Barrett Street Weir and the Bunnitj Biddi.
Barrett Street Trail is an easy well-defined trail with a firm surface. It is suitable for all levels of experience and fitness but may present difficulties for people with mobility impairments.
An interactive trail map is available online.
A moderate narrow walk trail that meanders along the Margaret River and Darch Brook between Rendall Close Weir and Riverslea residential area.
A good level of fitness is recommended as components of the trail consist of rocky/uneven surfaces.
An interactive trail map is available online.
A gentle well-defined walk and cycle trail following the alignment of a former timber tramway.
This trail is suitable for all levels of experience and fitness but may present difficulties for people with mobility impairments. Some trail sections may be poorly drained in winter.
An interactive trail map is available online.
Bunnitj Biddi is a walk and cycle trail that winds through forests of karri, marri, jarrah and blackbutt, with peppermint in the wetter areas.
It has a compacted surface with some gentle slopes, and steps in paths that lead to the water’s edge. It is suitable for all levels of experience and fitness but may present difficulties for people with mobility impairments.
An interactive trail map is available online.
Augusta Trails
Visit the Department of Transport website to access more information for the following trails.
Whale Trail (2.7km return)
The Whale Trail follows the coastline from Flinders Bay to the Augusta Boat Harbour. There is also a continuous footpath that leads from the Blackwood River mouth near Colourpatch Café to Flinders Bay so experience can be extended. The whole trail is sealed and has a very flat gradient.
Cape Leeuwin Trail (3.4km)
The Leeuwin Trail currently extends from the Augusta Boat Harbour to Dead Finish. It has a firm surface and takes in magnificent views of the Southern Ocean.
Wider trails
Cape to Cape Track
The 125km Cape to Cape Track traverses the length of Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park and overlooks the adjoining Ngari Capes Marine Park, alternating spectacular sweeping cliff-top views with stretches of pristine beach. This track is managed by the Department of Parks and Wildlife.
Visit Explore Parks WA for more information.
Visit Parks and Wildlife Service for Cape to Cape alerts and conditions.
Augusta-Busselton Heritage Trail
The Augusta-Busselton Heritage Trail is a self-guiding walking and/or driving tour which retraces the original route linking the settlements at Augusta and the Vasse in the 1830s. View brochure below.
More information and contact
More information and resources on trails, bushwalking and navigation is available though the following websites:
Brookfield Bike Park
Brookfield Bike Park is a free public facility for mountain biking and BMX, located 3km south of Margaret River at the corner of Bottlebrush Drive and Leschenaultia Avenue.
Nestled under the shady canopy of jarrah, marri and peppermint trees, our Brookfield Bike Park is a great place for mountain biking and BMX enthusiasts of all skill levels.
The park features three jump lines and a connecting trail loop, complete with jumps, rollers, table tops and berms. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, there's something here for everyone.
Getting there
The park is conveniently located approximately 3km south of the Margaret River town centre. Access is via the corner of Bottlebrush Drive and Leschenaultia Avenue, with a track next to the park’s picnic bench connecting you to the trails (see map below).
Important information
• Ride safely: Use the trails at your own risk and ride at your skill level. Safety gear, including a full-face helmet, gloves, knee and elbow pads, and enclosed shoes is strongly recommended.
• No motorised vehicles: Motorbikes and other motorised vehicles are prohibited in the reserve.
• Keep it clean: Please take your rubbish with you.
• Liability: The Shire of Augusta Margaret River accepts no liability for loss or damage to personal property or injury sustained as a result of using these trails.
A community effort
The Brookfield Mountain Bike Park was developed in response to the rise of unsanctioned trail building in local bushland reserves, which posed environmental and safety risks. In 2023, our Shire collaborated with local professional trail builders Magic Dirt Trailworx and local youth to transform these trails into a safe, approved area that meets Australian Mountain Bike Trail Safety Standards. The park officially opened 21 December 2024, following a successful trial period.
Ongoing maintenance and conservation
To ensure the safety and integrity of the trails, the park undergoes routine inspections. The surrounding bushland is being restored to improve its condition, habitat and biodiversity. This includes ongoing weed control and revegetation of degraded areas.
Get involved
The Shire is always looking for feedback and ideas to enhance the park. If you or your child have any comments or would like to participate in future initiatives, please register your interest by emailing [email protected].
For maintenance issues or other concerns, contact our Shire at 9780 5255 or [email protected].
