Walyunga National Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Walyunga National Park Western Australia
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Walyunga National Park Location in Western Australia
Nearest town or city	Perth, Western Australia
Established	1970 (1970)
Area	1,814 ha (4,480 acres)
Managing authorities	Department of Environment and Conservation
Website	Walyunga National Park
See also	List of protected areas of Western Australia

Walyunga National Park is a beautiful natural area in Western Australia. It is about 35 kilometers (22 miles) northeast of Perth. You can find it by following the Great Northern Highway. This park is a great place to explore nature and learn about local history. It is known for its stunning landscapes and important cultural heritage.

Discover Walyunga National Park

Where is Walyunga National Park?

Walyunga National Park is located just behind the Darling Scarp. This is a steep slope that forms part of the Darling Range. The park spreads across a valley with very steep sides.

The Swan-Avon River flows right through the park. The Eastern Railway also runs through this area. A famous event called the Avon Descent passes through the park. It includes a challenging set of rapids in the river.

The land here is mostly made of large granite rocks. There are also smaller areas of dolerite. The tops of the hills are covered with a hard, reddish layer called laterite.

What Can You See and Do?

Walyunga National Park offers many things for visitors. You can enjoy a picnic or barbecue with your family and friends. There are special areas with barbecue facilities. The park also has parking and toilet facilities for your convenience.

The park is home to many amazing animals. You might spot a grey kangaroo hopping through the bush. Look up to see colorful birds like the galah. On the ground, you might see a goanna or a small gecko. Many other types of wildlife live here too.

The plants in Walyunga are also very interesting. You can find tall flooded gum trees. There are also jarrah trees, which are famous for their strong wood. Other unique plants include petrophile and hakea species.

A Place of History and Culture

The name Walyunga roughly means "Happy Place." This park has been a special meeting spot for a very long time. The Noongar people, who are the traditional owners of this land, have used this area for about 6,000 years. It was a significant place for gatherings and ceremonies.

Today, Walyunga National Park is an official protected area. This means it is kept safe for both nature and people to enjoy. It helps preserve the natural beauty and the rich history of the land.