Lake Leschenaultia

Lake Leschenaultia in Chidlow, Western Australia, is a family-friendly mountain biking destination in the Perth Hills, around 45 minutes east of Perth. Set within a 168-hectare bushland reserve, the lake has a dedicated 12 km mountain bike trail network designed primarily for beginner through intermediate riders, making it an excellent place for kids, families, newer mountain bikers and riders looking to build their skills. The network includes flowing singletrack, gentle climbing trails, rollers, small jumps, rock gardens and technical features, with trails including Railway Run, Eastern Line, Hula, Yeehaa, Woohoo, Shakes n’ Ladders, Towies, Stewies, Man vs Machine and Blue Panther. The Eastern Line provides an approachable 1.3 km climb to the upper trailhead, where riders can choose from several descending options. Beginners can build confidence on trails such as Railway Run, Hula and Stewies, while intermediate riders can step up to faster and more technical trails such as Yeehaa, Woohoo, Shakes n’ Ladders and Blue Panther. There’s also a pump track for practising bike handling, while the approximately 3 km Lakeside Trail provides an easier ride around Lake Leschenaultia through marri and wandoo woodland. The network can also be linked towards the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail, opening up options for a longer Perth Hills cycling adventure. With parking, toilets, picnic areas, playgrounds, swimming, camping and other facilities around the lake, Lake Leschenaultia is particularly good for combining mountain biking with a family day out or weekend in the Perth Hills. Entry to the reserve is free. RTS Tip: If you’re introducing kids or newer riders to MTB, Lake Leschenaultia is a great place to start — use Eastern Line to reach the upper trailhead and progressively work through the descending trails as confidence grows. In summer, always check conditions before travelling: high fire danger can result in the West Beach area and MTB trails being closed, or the entire reserve closing when conditions become more severe.