Trail Running in Kings Park and Bold Park
Kings Park is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, sitting on Whadjuk Noongar Country above the Swan River with views over the Perth skyline. The 400-hectare park and adjacent Bold Park together offer over 30 km of walking and running trails through rare banksia woodland and native bush. The trails are accessible from central Perth by foot or short drive, making them a favourite for before-work runs and post-work sunset laps. The wildflower season from September to October transforms the park into one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in any city on earth.
Region
Perth, WA
Difficulty
Easy
Best Seasons
Autumn, Winter, Spring
Trails
3 featured
Terrain
Well-maintained gravel and dirt trails through native banksia woodland, with some paved paths near the park's formal garden areas. Flat to gently undulating with occasional short climbs on the Bold Park ridge.
Best Trails
Bold Park Red Loop
Easy to ModerateThe best trail running in the Bold Park network with rare coastal banksia woodland.
Sandy gravel singletrack
Kings Park Outer Loop
EasyCircles the park boundary with Swan River views and access to the DNA Tower and State War Memorial.
Paved and gravel paths
Lotterywest Federation Walkway and Bushland Loop
EasyCombines the famous Federation Walkway bridge with a forest loop on the park's bushland edge.
Gravel and boardwalk
Gear Recommendations
Road shoes or trail shoes both work on the maintained gravel paths
Carry water as fountains are mainly near the formal gardens, not the bushland trails
Sun protection is essential on exposed sections of Bold Park ridge
Early morning starts avoid heat in summer and parking competition at weekends
Safety Tips
Bold Park trails are less patrolled than Kings Park, run with a buddy or let someone know your route
Watch for cyclists on the shared paths of Kings Park
During wildflower season, stay strictly on marked trails to protect the flowers
Summer heat builds quickly on exposed sections, aim for runs before 8 AM
Getting There
Kings Park is accessed from Kings Park Road in West Perth, a 10-minute drive or 30-minute walk from the CBD. Bold Park is entered from Oceanic Drive, Wembley Downs. Free parking at both parks.
Post-Run Refuel
Fraser's Restaurant in Kings Park has the best views in Perth for a post-run meal. For coffee, Chu Bakery in Subiaco is outstanding and a short drive from the park.
Local Trail Events
HBF Run for a Reason
4K, 12K, and 21.1KPerth's biggest fun run starts and finishes in Kings Park, raising money for HBF charity partners.
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
How many kilometres of trails are there in Kings Park and Bold Park?
Together the two parks offer over 30 km of trails ranging from formal paved paths to narrow bush singletrack through banksia woodland.
Is Kings Park suitable for beginner trail runners?
Yes. The terrain is gentle and the trails are well-maintained and signposted. It is one of the best beginner trail destinations in Australia due to its accessibility and easy terrain.
When is the best time to run in Kings Park?
Spring (September to October) during wildflower season is the most visually spectacular. Year-round, early morning runs before 8 AM avoid the heat and crowds.
Is there parking at Kings Park?
Yes. Free parking is available along Kings Park Road and in several car parks within the park. It fills quickly on weekends and during events, so arrive early.
Can I run from the Perth CBD to Kings Park?
Yes. Kings Park is about 3 km from the Perth CBD and can be reached on foot via the riverside paths along the Swan River.
