Along the banks of the Djarlgarro Beelier (Canning River), the Roley Pools Heritage Trails wind through a steep-sided valley where small waterfalls flow over granite rocks. The river valley and waterside paths give Roleystone a distinctive landscape focus. Araluen Botanic Park offers a different emphasis: the site’s history and seasonal bulb displays are part of the experience here.

Roley Pools: River Landscape and History

The bushland of Roley Pools Reserve includes Flooded Gum, Wandoo and Marri trees. The river provides habitat for native animals, birds and fish, including Quenda, Rakali, Black Cockatoos and Freshwater Cobbler. The waterfalls and valley are therefore not attractions in isolation: the riverbank is also habitat for a diverse range of native wildlife.

Roley Pool was Roleystone’s original swimming hole. From the early 1900s, Roleystone residents often used the pool for swimming. This use is part of the area’s history; today, the walking trails offer a different way to explore the river landscape.

Two Trails, Different Endpoints

The Boardwalk Trail runs along the river’s southern bank from Soldier Road Bridge to Thompson Road. The Roley Pools Walk Trail follows the northern bank: it leads from the upper car park near Soldiers Road Bridge to Roley Pool. From there, steps climb uphill to Collins Road.

The riverbank and destination provide clear guidance when choosing a route: the Boardwalk Trail ends at Thompson Road, while the Roley Pools Walk Trail leads to the pool and then continues via steps to Collins Road. Check local trail conditions before setting out.

Trail Signage and Noongar Culture

The Roley Pools walking trail facilities have recently been updated with new trail markers and information boards. QR codes on the boards provide information about Noongar culture and land care. This brings together trail guidance and insights into culture and land care. Check the condition of the boards on site.

Araluen: Park History and Spring Blooms

The history of Araluen Botanic Park tells of a change in land use: orchard land became a botanical park. In spring, the bulb displays include thousands of tulips, as well as extensive plantings of daffodils, hyacinths, lilies, irises, jonquils and Easter lilies. Spring is therefore the key season for visits focused on the flower displays.

Guided walks are also part of the park’s offerings. Araluen Botanic Park has partnered with The Hike Collective for this since 2019. The tours go beyond public trails into parts of the park that are not normally accessible. If one of these walks is important to your plans, check current availability with the provider.

Another Walking Destination in Roleystone

On the Churchman Bushland Trails, the Botanical Trail leads to Churchman Crag. This adds another clearly named destination to the riverside trails and paths in the botanical park. The different themes can be considered separately when planning your trip: river landscape, park history and spring blooms each offer a distinct focus.

Discover more destinations: Wyndham, Jurien Bay, Mullaloo, Pinjarra, Muchea, Chapman Hill, Benger, Kings Park

For the broader travel overview: Western Australia.