The Trail of Challenges and Discoveries
At dawn, while Perth was still asleep, the thermometer read +16°C, a rare blessing in the middle of the Australian summer. It was the perfect day for a hike. Our hiking group was small—just Dmitry from Ufa and me —and we agreed to meet at a gas station, ten minutes from the trailhead, at 6 AM.
John Forrest National Park greeted us with fresh air and golden sunlight filtering through the eucalyptus canopy. Following the yellow signs with an eagle silhouette, we set off along Jane Brook, listening to the sound of flowing water and birdsong.
The first real challenge was the climb to a scenic lookout. My legs felt the effort, but the breathtaking view of Swan Coastal Plain and the distant Indian Ocean made it worthwhile.
As we moved on, the landscape constantly shifted—from dense bushland to open meadows dotted with wildflowers. The crisp scent of eucalyptus filled the air, and my body found its rhythm on the trail.
We weren’t alone. Groups of 2-3 runners, all monogendered, sped past us—some smart, some beautiful . One woman stood out the most—she overtook us twice, adding an extra 4.5 km to complete a trail half-marathon. Respect!
Approaching Hovea Falls, where many stop to rest, we felt no need to pause. The weather was perfect, and we still had plenty of energy. Runners kept passing by, reminding us that Eagle View Walk Trail is not just for hikers but also for serious endurance athletes.
The final stretch ran alongside Jane Brook, leading us back to the starting point. Despite its length, the trail felt manageable—a good plan and great conditions made all the difference.
When we completed the loop, I felt proud of the journey and grateful for the experience. Eagle View Walk Trail is more than a hike—it’s an adventure through Western Australia’s stunning landscapes, a test of endurance, and a chance to disconnect from city life.
And the day wasn’t over yet.
After the hike, we headed to Swan Valley… not for wine and cheese, but to pick grapes.
Except, we didn’t pick them for baskets—we ate most of them straight off the vine .
But that’s another story.