Restricted by one injury and building fitness to try to prevent another, Leanne and I spent our mid-winter adventures searching for wildflowers on foot.
My hand injury was still keeping me off the bike, while a longer walk to on the Bibbulmun Track was fast approaching. With my previous walking injuries still in mind, I was gradually increasing my distances in preparation.
Jabitj Trail - Wellington NP
The Jabitj, or Running Water Trail, is a six-kilometre one-way trail joining the Wellington Dam precinct to Honeymoon Pool, and arguably the most scenic route through Wellington National Park.
We approached the Jabitj Trail from the Honeymoon Pool trailhead, setting out in the late afternoon.
Most of the trail has been resurfaced recently, but unfortunately its alignment still runs over steep hills.
The trail lives up to its name, with the river as a constant companion, lush mossy valleys and plenty of wildlife.
Marri Trail - Crooked Brook Forest
The Marri Trail is a 10-kilometre circuit through the jarrah and marri forest of Crooked Brook, climbing to several lookouts with views across the Ferguson Valley and towards Bunbury.
In spring, the forest floor becomes a kaleidoscopic carpet of flowers, some of which were already in bloom.
The trail is a pleasant mix of fire road and singletrack, with gentle climbs and short descents in the recommended direction.
We followed this walk with an outstanding lunch at PARK Donnybrook.
Maidens Reserve
The following weekend, we returned to Maidens Reserve, making up a new route as we went.
We followed the Coastal Trail south, pausing frequently to photograph the wildflowers.
From the intersection, we continued south into the tuart forest.
On the return, we were treated to views of nesting pink and grey galahs.
We finished with a drink at Mindalong Beach, watching rainclouds roll over the colourful landscape behind us. We’d finished just in time.
More on Maidens Reserve:
2026.05 Maidens Reserve Bushwalking
Waking to a smoky haze in Collie, Leanne and I headed for the coast in search of clearer skies and a new adventure.