Are you looking for a scenic getaway from Perth? A 324 km road trip between Perth and Pemberton is filled with towering Karri forests, local wine, fresh produce, outdoor adventures, and more. The South West region in Western Australia is a favourite among travellers.

This trip has something to offer everyone, whether you want a scenic drive that takes 3.5 hours or a more rapid route. What you can expect is:

• Natural highlights: Visit the National Parks of Gloucester, Warren, and Beedelup Falls. These parks are home to ancient Karri trees, stunning walking trails, and a variety of other natural features.
• Unique Activities: Climb the iconic trees in a 4WD or tackle the Yeagarup Dunes with a tram.
• Food and Wine: Taste fresh produce, artisanal products, and boutique wine from the Southern Forests Region.
• Stargazing & Camping: Choose from peaceful camping sites like Warren Campground or glamping in Stargazer’s Forest Hideaway.
• Best Travel Times Visit in spring or fall for mild weather and to see wildflowers blooming.

A quick tip: Pack essentials such as water and first aid kits for safety off the grid.

This road trip is perfect for anyone looking for adventure, relaxation or tasty local flavours. Are you ready to take off? Let’s get into the details.

Planning your Route

Whether you want to travel fast or enjoy the scenery will determine which route is best, from Perth to Pemberton. With a thoughtful plan, you can enjoy the forest and local delights on the way.

Scenic vs Direct Routes

The Forest Highway, which takes about 3.5 hours to complete the 324 km trip, is the fastest way. A scenic detour will add time but reward you with beautiful towns, local produce and stunning forest landscapes.

Route OptionHighlights

Direct Route: The fastest option with minimum stops

Scenic Detour Forest views, fresh fruits and vegetables, charming towns

After you have chosen your route, explore the places that must be seen along the way.

Attractions and Key Stops

If you are heading south, consider spending time in Margaret River, Bunbury, Busselton, and Fremantle. These places are great for experiencing local markets, sampling fresh produce, and soaking up the relaxed coastal vibe in Western Australia.

Off-grid travellers should prepare a little extra:

• Service stations are often scarce, so it’s best to fuel up at the major stops.
• Make sure you bring extra food and water.
• Paper maps are handy in the event that your GPS fails.

Weather conditions can have a huge impact on the timing of your trip.

Weather and Timing

Weather conditions can be unpredictable in the southwest of Western Australia. Keep in mind these seasonal tips:

Summer (December to March)

• Take extra precautions when you are around fire.
• Early morning starts help avoid the midday heat.

Spring (September to November)

• Wildflower lovers will enjoy this time.
• Even though rain is possible, mild temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities.

Always check road conditions before you go on a trip. “Rainfall can quickly cause roads to close due to flooding.”

• Reni and Marcel are Swiss Nomads

To minimise risk, drive at dawn and dusk, avoid driving on gravel roads, and reduce your speed. Mobile reception is patchy in some areas, particularly forested and valleys. Plan your communications accordingly.

Pemberton Forest Guide

Forest Sites and Landmarks

Pemberton has a breathtaking karri forest. The trees are tall and can reach 95 meters. The Karri Forest Explorer is a great way to explore these ancient giants and connect with some of the region’s most iconic natural landmarks.

Gloucester National Park is located just 3 km south of Pemberton and covers 8,500 hectares. The 58-metre Gloucester Tree has been temporarily closed for refurbishment. However, the park is open and continues to attract visitors thanks to its beautiful scenery and walking paths.

Key Forest AttractionsFeaturesEntry fees

Gloucester National Park The Cascades: Walking trails and karri trees. Entry is free

Greater Beedelup National Park Beedelup Falls is home to a variety of wildlife park fees, which are standard.

Big Brook Dam Picnic spots and walking tracks with a sealed surface Entry is free.

Warren National Park Ancient forest, river views Park fees are standard

The Cascades is a series of picturesque rapids that run along Lefroy Brook. It’s a great place to explore, with its boardwalks and sealed paths.

Walking Trails and Tours

After you have marvelled at Pemberton’s natural landmarks, it is time to hit the trails. There are options for all fitness levels, from short walks to longer hikes. Big Brook Dam Circuit, a sealed 4 km path, is suitable for wheelchairs and prams, so it’s perfect for families.

These guided tours are perfect for those who want to experience more.

• Beach & Forest Eco Adventure: Pemberton Discovery Tours offers this Advanced Ecotourism Certified tour, which takes you through Yeagarup Dunes (sand dunes), the karri forests, and onto the Warren River. The cost is $165 per person.
• Tramway Journey Through History: Two-hour tramway ride through the forest with the Pemberton Tramway Company. Prices:
  • Adults: $30.00
  • Children (under 16): AUD 15.00
  • Children under 2 years old: 5.00 Australian dollars
• Forest Experiences Guided: WILD One’s Forest School & Adventures offers unique activities:
  • Gloucester Forest Hiking Experience – AUD 65
  • Karri Forest Bush Skills Workshop: AUD 50.

“Beautiful park. The karri tree is beautiful. You can walk different distances around the Gloucester Tree. Two short walks and one long walk of 10km. It is the perfect environment to see the beautiful karri tree.” – CoisDeZweed, Trip Advisor.

These tours and trails allow you to immerse yourself in the Pemberton forests. For the latest trail conditions and more information, contact the Pemberton Parks and Wildlife Office at (08) 9776 1207. You can also visit the Pemberton Visitor Centre.

Guide to Food and Produce

Regional food spots

Southern Forests is home to over 100 growers who contribute a wide variety of products.

Produce types LocationsSeasonal availability

Fresh Produce Midway Farmstall, West Pinjarra Year-round

Organic Products Barrabup Organics in Nannup Seasonal

Local Meat Midway Farmstall (grass-fed Dorper lamb and Black Angus beef). Year-round

Artisanal Products Gourmet Food Seller, Cowaramup Year-round

Check out these local favourites to get a taste of the flavours of the area:

• Wild at Heart (Rocco’s Diner) in Pemberton
• Crossings Bakery Pemberton
• Naughty Noodle Bar Northcliffe

The Southern Forests Food Council represents more than 100 growers who produce over 50 different types of fruits and vegetables, as well as beef, lamb, dairy, porc, wine, gourmet products and truffles.

Let’s now explore the best ways to cook when you are travelling off-grid.

Tips for Off-Grid Cooking

It’s not difficult to cook off-grid. You can cook delicious meals even in remote areas with a little planning and some tricks.

Storage Tip:

• Cryovac packaging helps to keep meat fresher for longer.
• Heat beads should be stored in sealed containers to preserve their quality.
• Bring 3 litres per person per day.

Meal Ideas

• Breakfast Simple options such as canned spaghetti, baked beans or eggs, or cereals in single-serve boxes.
• Main Courses: Soups and curries are ready-made and easy to prepare.

If you have a 30-cm-sized oven, use this tip to get even cooking: Use 24 briquettes.

Find fresh produce:

• Barrabup Organics is known for its certified organic herbal teas and seasonally available garlic.
• Midway Farmstall: Offers local honey and eggs, as well as jams, relishes and gluten-free goods.
• Fontanini Nut & Fruit Farm: Pick your fruit at this farm.

Visit the local farmers’ markets at Bridgetown and Nannup to find seasonal produce and regional products. The markets in Bridgetown and Nannup are great for sampling the local flavours.

Safety and Outdoor Activities

Guidelines for 4WD

Are you planning to travel from Perth to Pemberton? Ensure your 4WD can handle the challenge. If you are driving in sand, lower your tyres to 12 PSI or 16 PSI.

Essential Safety EquipmentPurpose

First Aid Kit Medical emergencies: how to handle them

UHF Radio: Keep in touch with areas that lack mobile coverage

Recovery Kit Unstuck Tools

12V Compressor: You can adjust the tyre pressure as required

Garden Saw: Remove any fallen branches that are blocking the way

Basic Tools Minor vehicle repairs

Satellite phone or PLB Access emergency communications when needed

Download the Emergency+ App, and make sure you have enough food and water with you.

Stay where you are if you become lost or stranded or if your vehicle breaks down. You’ll be located sooner.” Explore Parks WA

Slow down when driving on unsealed roads with poor mobile reception. Leave extra space between cars.

Are you ready for an adventure in the vertical realm? Continue reading to learn how to climb safely.

Tree Climbing Guide

Important notice: Beginning 14 May 2025, the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree and Gloucester Tree will be closed temporarily for structural safety improvements. The Bicentennial tree in Warren National Park, however, is still available for climbing. The first platform is located approximately 20 metres above the forest.

Keep these safety tips in mind if you plan to climb:

• Wear footwear that is sturdy and has a good grip.
• Before you start the climb, leave your backpack on the floor.
• Avoid climbing in windy or wet weather.
• Make sure that you are physically fit for the activity.

Early mornings offer temperatures between 10.3degC to 20.5degC. This is the perfect time for adventure.

Aerial Adventure Pemberton is a great alternative to tree climbing if you can’t climb trees due to closures. This course is a great way to see the forest canopy in a new light.

Camping at Night

Top Stargazing Spots

Warren Campground offers a magical experience for those who love to gaze at the stars. This spot is located just 18km away from Pemberton and provides a peaceful escape amidst the towering Karri forest.

Only six camping sites are available, so you’ll be able to enjoy an uninterrupted view of the night skies. The nearby Warren River also adds to the tranquillity of your night under the stars.

Stargazers Forest Hideaway offers a luxurious option for those who are looking for a little more. This glamping location is perfectly situated between Pemberton & Nannup. It provides a comfortable and immersive way to experience nature. There’s even an autumn special with cottages as low as $190 per night.

Here is a quick comparison between the two:

Camping FeatureWarren CampgroundStargazers Forest Hideaway

Distance from Pemberton 18km Between Pemberton & Nannup

Nightly Rate $15 per adult, $5 per child, Starting at $190 for two people

The Facilities Basic, self-sufficient Glamping options available

Vehicle Access Small trailers with 2WD/AWD All Vehicle Types

Generator Use Only 9 am-7 pm Not specified

You can enjoy incredible stargazing from either the Stargazers Forest hideaway or the Warren Campground. To get into that off-grid feeling, remember to keep the modern world at bay and manage power wisely.

Solar Power Tips

Solar power can be a great way to keep your campsite running smoothly once you have chosen the perfect camping spot. Here are a few tips for making the most out of your camping setup:

Basics of Power Management:

• Bring extra power banks and limit your generator usage to 9 am-7 pm.
• Place solar panels in areas that are open and sunny for the best charging.

How to Set up Your Campsite:

• Arrive early to set up before the sun sets.
• You must bring your wood, as it is prohibited to collect firewood on-site.
• Pack out all waste to keep the area clean.

If you’re looking for a more equipped base or if you want to stay longer, the RAC Karri Valley Resort near Lake Beedelup may be a good option. It is also a good option if you want to extend your trip with more amenities.

Conclusion

Perth to Pemberton is a 324-kilometre road trip that offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and local charm. The landscape is dominated by ancient trees that give the region its distinctive character. This allows you to seamlessly transition from the lush forest scenery to vibrant local attractions.

Pemberton, nestled between the Gloucester, Warren and Beedelup National Parks, is a paradise for foodies and nature lovers alike. Fresh local produce and boutique wine are its main attractions. Adventurers can enjoy Australia’s largest mobile dune system, the Yeagarup Dunes, and the Karri Forest Explorer Drive, which connects them to some of the region’s most beautiful natural treasures. These highlights are a great way to experience the rugged appeal of Western Australia.

Imagine yourself gazing at the stars in a peaceful campground surrounded by ancient forest or exploring all the offerings of the region, including historic cottages, roadside produce stands and hiking the Bibbulmun track. Pemberton offers a unique combination of tranquillity and adventure, making it a perfect destination for experiencing Western Australia’s untamed beauty.