Mumballup is a small settlement on Donnybrook-Boyup Brook Road, reached by a descent on the Bibbulmun Track. At Glen Mervyn Dam, the track crosses the dam wall and then descends to the Forrest Tavern. This gives you a specific sequence of landmarks for getting to know the area: from the dam, down the descent and on to a point of reference in the settlement. When planning a walk, this sequence is more tangible than the name of the track alone, because it connects a distinctive stretch by the water with the route down to Mumballup.

Walking with Valley Views and Jarrah Forest

The Mumballup section of the Bibbulmun Track offers walkers views across Preston Valley. The Mumballup area also offers the opportunity to walk through one of the finest stands of original jarrah forest in the southwest. Valley views and forest are different reasons to spend time outdoors: one draws your gaze across the valley, while the other takes you into an original forest landscape. They are associated with different places: the views are along the track section, while the forest walk is an option in the Mumballup area.

Swimming, Fishing and Picnicking at Glen Mervyn Dam

Swimming is possible at Glen Mervyn Dam, and fishing is permitted year-round. Check the current regulations before your trip if you plan to fish. Water conditions and access rules can change, so it is worth checking for updates before swimming too. There is a day-use picnic area on the eastern shore, with toilets and picnic tables. This makes the dam a destination in its own right, in addition to the crossing over the dam wall: you can focus your visit on water activities or take a break at the picnic area. Check the condition of the facilities before your visit, too.

An Architectural Highlight

Architecture can also play a role in choosing a destination. The Forrest Tavern is a good example of a tavern in the Federation Queen Anne style. This adds a specific building with its own architectural character as an interest alongside the landscape and outdoor activities. For anyone who wants to consider architecture as well as nature when choosing a place to visit, it offers another point of interest. The tavern complements the area’s landscape and walking attractions, so Mumballup need not be viewed solely as a place for outdoor activities.

Choose Your Stay Based on Your Interests

If you want to go walking, you can take the route and the views across Preston Valley into account when choosing where to visit. If you are planning a trip to the dam, you can choose between swimming, fishing and a picnic on the eastern shore. The Forrest Tavern offers another facet for architecture enthusiasts. This makes it possible to choose Mumballup based on specific interests, rather than a general idea of a stay in the countryside. If swimming or fishing is part of your plans, factor the current water conditions and fishing regulations into your preparations.

Discover more destinations: Yanchep, Hillarys, Mindarie, Oombulgurri, Wellington Mill, Port Denison, Port Kennedy, Cable Beach

For the broader travel overview: Western Australia.