Collie and Dwellingup have earned recognition as Western Australia’s premier Mountain Bike Trail Towns. This prestigious title highlights their commitment to outdoor activities, community involvement, and sustainable tourism. The Trail Town initiative, led by Trails WA in partnership with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) and the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC), works to present these towns as lively tourism hubs deeply integrated with their local trail networks.  

The Trail Town accreditation process was built around strict criteria, developed in partnership with DBCA and DLGSC, including trail infrastructure, landscapes, tourism marketing, maintenance and community engagement. By meeting these standards, towns like Collie and Dwellingup can proudly showcase the Trail Town logo, signalling to visitors that they are welcoming destinations for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and authentic experiences in regional Western Australia.

Suzanne Hillier, Chairperson of Trails WA, emphasises that the Trail Town initiative is more than just acknowledgment; it’s about transformation. By embracing these standards, towns can reinvent themselves as bustling activity centres, attracting visitors, stimulating commerce and fostering community pride. The accreditation process is designed to be inclusive and supportive, offering personalised guidance to help towns enhance their appeal to trail visitors and improve their trail tourism offerings.

When exploring Collie and Dwellingup, visitors can expect a warm reception from the local community, a wide array of outdoor pursuits, and an opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of these trail towns. From serene spots for picnics and observing wildlife to challenging mountain bike trails and family-friendly escapades, these towns cater to all preferences. One notable feature is the proximity of certain trails to the towns, allowing visitors to access some of the trails right from the town centre.  

Businesses with the Trail Friendly Business brandmark play a vital role in enriching visitors’ experiences by providing services and local expertise that support exploration of the top-notch trails in WA. Whether travellers are on their own, with family, or in a group, Collie and Dwellingup have the necessary amenities for a memorable trail experience.  

Collie and Dwellingup shine as premier trail towns in WA, standing out as outstanding examples of outdoor recreation, community involvement, and sustainable tourism. These towns not only offer a gateway to adventure but also embody community spirit, cultural enrichment and environmental conservation. By embracing and discovering these lively trail towns, visitors can immerse themselves in Western Australia’s stunning trail networks and create lasting memories in the heart of nature. 

The Wambenger Trails—Collie’s vast network of kayak, hike, and mountain bike trails—are named after the local brush-tailed phascogale. This cute little dynamo is common to the area, and if you don’t see one out on the trails, you’ll spot their likeness in logos across town or at the main trailhead at Central Park. At the trailhead at Central Park or outside the Collie Visitor Centre, you’ll find maps, or you can head to trailswa.com.au for up-to-date information

MORNING

Start your day with coffee at the Wagon in Central Park for great coffee and takeaway breakfast and lunch options. If you’d prefer a sit-down affair, head across the street to Barn-Zee’s for table service and hearty trail fuel. Begin your adventure by pedalling along the Collie River Trail from Soldiers Park to Minninup Pool. From here, you can jump onto the Kylie Trail, an easy to moderate trail through Westralia Conservation Park with an option to return to town via the Karak Trail. Alternatively, warm up on the Collie Wagyl Biddi Trails, suitable for beginners to intermediates and featuring a skills area.

AFTERNOON

Just out of town, explore the expansive Arklow Trails, sweeping through the jarrah forest. Start with a warm-up on the Arklow Adaptive Trail, a 9.2 kilometre loop suitable for adaptive bicycles. From here, connect to the 220 Trail for a fun and challenging ride following the contours to Harris River Dam. Alternatively, try Railway Rise for a warm-up climb or Bull Ant for a roller coaster ride to the Munda Biddi Trail connection.  

AFTER LUNCH

Take a pleasant 30-minute drive to Wellington National Park. This stunning park boasts the largest dam mural in the world, spanning 8000 square metres. View it from the platform near Kiosk At The Dam or the dam wall crossing. Enjoy trails ranging from easy to difficult for hikers, mountain bikers, and kayakers. For a fun cross-country treat, try Big Dipper, with an option to loop back on Lichen This, or head down Van Dam for an easy descent toward Sika Trail. For more adrenaline, try Black Glove, a technical trail traversing rocky terrain.

If you prefer hiking, explore the Wiilman Bilya Trail, a challenging 87 kilometre multi-day adventure starting in Collie and winding around Wellington Dam. For an easier option, try the Sika Trail, a dual-use trail linking the Kiosk with Potters Gorge. The Jabitj Trail is another excellent option, following the Collie River to the beautiful Honeymoon Pool.

Refuel at Kiosk At The Dam, offering toasties, homemade cakes, pies, coffee, and craft beer.  

EVENING

Finish your day with a specky pub meal at the Crown Hotel Collie, serving modern pub fare with friendly service. 

MORNING 

Start your day at Waypoints Café, located in the Dwellingup Trails and Visitor Centre, offering great coffee and a selection of food. Enjoy your coffee in the sun or relax on the outdoor seating. If you prefer a sit-down meal, head up the street to Blue Wren Café for a full breakfast and lunch menu with outstanding homemade cakes. Needing gear for your day out on the trails? Visit Dwellingup Adventures to hire or purchase bikes, kayaks and camping equipment.  

To get your bearings, head to the Dwellingup Trailhead and take The Mack, an easy dual-use loop trail around the town. For a faster pace, follow the signs to the Munda Biddi and take Emu Run through to Solitary. Loop back into town on the Munda Biddi, or challenge yourself with the Marrinup Circuit Trail or surrounding moderate trails locally known as ‘Town Trails’. For a family-friendly warm-up, try the local pump track next to the Dwellingup Trails and Visitor Centre.  

AFTERNOON

For lunch, enjoy the quaint and lush settings of Garden Eats, offering a vegetarian and plantbased menu. Check out the adjoining gallery for local and regional art. For a heartier meal, try Longriders Café for great burgers and local beer.  

Just south of town, nestled in Lane Poole Reserve, discover the Murray Valley Mountain Bike Trails. Start at the Murray Valley Trailhead and warm up on Captain Hook, then traverse Yarri Up to The Roost. Test your skills on the challenging Busted Nuts Trail or enjoy the gentler Year 1 Trail. The Roost Trailhead can be accessed using the shuttle road if you prefer to avoid climbing.

In Lane Poole Reserve, explore hiking, kayaking, or picnic and camping spots alongside the Murray River.  

EVENING

Head back to town for a relaxing dinner at the iconic Dwellingup Hotel, offering local dishes and cold beverages with a lovely street frontage dining area.  

In addition to trails, explore the Hotham Valley Railway for a scenic steam train ride. Visit Wine Tree Cidery for a cosy atmosphere and a great selection of ciders and wines. On your way home, stop by the Forest Discovery Centre to view creative local art and crafts and enjoy an immersive walk following the Noongar seasons.  

Within the Dwellingup Trails and Visitor Centre, find locally made gifts and merchandise, as well as detailed trail information. For bike, kayak, and camping gear rentals, visit Dwellingup Adventures. They also offer guided tours, from thrilling white-water rafting trips to scenic strolls along the Bibbulmun Track.