If there ever were a perfect time to take a road trip through the beauty that is WA, it is autumn. With nothing but orange and red trees for company, step out of Perth to journey to the South West. Catch the best of the autumn leaves along the scenic Blackwood River Tourist Drive, from Balingup to Bridgetown (via Nannup) and back.
This 113 km loop winds through striking rust-tinged foliage; the entire journey takes about 1.5 hours, making it an easy, short detour from your usual travels outside the city. With the starting point just 2.5 hours from Perth, consider taking this drive to make your weekend escape even better.
Blackwood River Tourist Drive (Tourist Drive 251)
Considered a beginner-friendly, easy trail, this drive passes through the charming towns of Boyup Brook and Bridgetown, allowing for minor diversions into hiking trails and overnight camping trips.
Start at Balingup and explore the area’s unique art and craft. The town is home to the Golden Valley Tree Park, WA’s largest arboretum, lush with trees from Australia (and beyond), a must-stop in autumn. Nearby, the Old Cheese Factory, refurbished into a craft centre (the largest in the South West), houses an eclectic collection of Australian (and WA-specific) artwork.
Then, the Blackwood River’s meandering curves take you to Tathra (near Nannup), known for a curated dining experience at Tathra Fruit Winery, spotlighting modern Australian cuisine and the best of local fruits.
Next, you will encounter Nannup, with its beautiful contrast between the jarrah forests and the quaint timber town. Autumn offers the opportunity to scout this town, perhaps even canoe or fish in its many brooks and rivers. Located alongside the Blackwood River, traverse the bush walks on its banks.
Then, leave the river for a little drive through the Bridgetown Jarrah Park on Brockman Highway on the road from Nannup to Bridgetown. It boasts vast stretches of majestic jarrah trees, perfect for a short hike, a day picnic, or even a short night camp. They glow especially golden in autumn.
Soon, you’ll catch up with Blackwood River again, nearing Bridgetown. It is well worth halting to enjoy a short boat adventure. The town is a good place to breathe, taking in its past and present via picturesque drives or walks. To conclude the Blackwood River Drive loop, make your way back to Balingup via the South Western Highway.
How to get there
The starting point of Route 251, Balingup, is about 230 km from Perth CBD, around 2.5-3 hours to reach via the Kwinana Freeway and South Western Highway. As the drive begins at the Balingup Visitor Information Centre, include it as part of a longer road trip. Alternatively, make the Blackwood River Tourist Drive the point of your trip; the journey can be the destination, after all!
