Mundaring Weir - Outback dam
1 / 10

Mundaring Weir

4.7
·105 reviews·Sawyers Valley, Australia

An iconic 20th-century dam, part of the Golden Pipeline, offering heritage insights, scenic walks, and family picnic spots.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Mundaring Weir - Outback dam

Mundaring Weir

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic 20th-century dam, part of the Golden Pipeline, offering heritage insights, scenic walks, and family picnic spots.

4.7
(105 reviews)

"A must-see for history buffs and nature lovers, offering stunning views and educational experiences."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 No Dogs Allowed!

Remember, dogs are strictly prohibited on the dam and in the park areas. :noentrysign:

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of stairs for fitness enthusiasts and walking trails to explore. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Walk Across the Dam Wall

Walk Across the Dam Wall

Mundaring Weir

Experience panoramic views of the reservoir on one side and the historic pumping station on the other.

No. 1 Pump Station Museum

No. 1 Pump Station Museum

Base of the dam wall

Discover the engineering marvel of the Golden Pipeline and its vital role in WA's history.

Bibbulmun Track Access

Bibbulmun Track Access

Near the weir

Access a section of this famous long-distance walking trail for a scenic hike.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Beat the crowds by visiting during weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends can get busy with families and picnickers. Check the Water Corporation website for any event closures or specific opening hours before you go.

Getting Around & Staying

While Uber isn't reliable for return trips from the Mundaring Weir Hotel, pre-booking a taxi is recommended. Consider accommodation in Mundaring town for easier access to transport and amenities.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Spring afternoons
Why
Blooming gardens, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Is Mundaring Weir a popular, as in busy, place on weekends? Particularly long weekends?

🐾 No Dogs Allowed!

Remember, dogs are strictly prohibited on the dam and in the park areas. :noentrysign:

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of stairs for fitness enthusiasts and walking trails to explore. :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

Mundaring weir hotel

reddit.com

Best driving spots in Perth

🧺 Picnic & BBQ Ready

Plenty of picnic spots, BBQ facilities, and bins available for a family day out. :picnic_table:

📸 Capture the Views

Fantastic photo opportunities from the dam wall and surrounding heritage buildings. :camerawithflash:

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 No Dogs Allowed!

Remember, dogs are strictly prohibited on the dam and in the park areas. :noentrysign:

🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of stairs for fitness enthusiasts and walking trails to explore. :athletic_shoe:

🧺 Picnic & BBQ Ready

Plenty of picnic spots, BBQ facilities, and bins available for a family day out. :picnic_table:

📸 Capture the Views

Fantastic photo opportunities from the dam wall and surrounding heritage buildings. :camerawithflash:

🚕 Taxi Tip

Pre-book taxis for return trips, especially from the Mundaring Weir Hotel. Ubers are unreliable here. :taxi:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(105 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mundaring Weir is a cherished local attraction, praised for its historical significance, beautiful scenery, and family-friendly amenities. Visitors enjoy the walk across the dam wall and the educational exhibits at the No. 1 Pump Station. Some find the lack of nearby dining options a drawback, and transport can be challenging without a car.

"Stop in here every now and then to check water levels and snap a few pictures you can walk across the dam and there is toilets available"

Mark Gray

"🚫NO DOGS ALLOWED ON DAM OR PARK🚫

A lovely family trip to a beaten spot in the hills.
Make it your own...
Go a big loop hike or simple explore the weir surroundings and sight platforms.
✅️ Toilets
✅️ Water Fountains
✅️ BBQ facilities"

Ca Bi

"One of my favourite places in Perth :)

- Plenty of picnic spots
- bins and bench areas
- heaps of stairs for fitness finatics
- beautiful rose garden
- full of kangaroos!
- beautiful view
- fun walkway over the weir :)
- full of helpful historic maps and plaques to find out how the weir came to be
- interesting historic buildings :)"

Karen

What People Like

Historic engineering marvel
Beautiful reservoir views
Family-friendly picnic spots

What People Dislike

Limited public transport
No on-site food options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mundaring Weir is located about 45 minutes east of Perth. The most common way to get there is by car via Mundaring Weir Road. Public transport options are limited, so driving is highly recommended for flexibility. Reddit

Yes, there is ample parking available at the Mundaring Weir park area, including designated spots for coaches and caravans. Parking is generally free.

Public transport to Mundaring Weir is very limited. While buses service the Mundaring town site, you would likely need to arrange a taxi or walk the remaining distance, which is not ideal. Driving is the most practical option. Reddit

The general area can be found by searching for 'Mundaring Weir' on GPS or mapping apps. The No. 1 Pump Station is located at 1 Power Station Rd, Mundaring WA 6073.

While Mundaring Weir itself is a heritage site, there are 4WD tracks in the surrounding Perth Hills region. However, these are separate from the main visitor areas of the weir. Always check local regulations and track conditions before venturing off-road.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Mundaring Weir park and dam wall is generally free. There are no admission fees for general visitors. Reddit

The park and dam are typically open daily from dawn to dusk. However, the No. 1 Pump Station Museum may have specific opening hours, so it's best to check the Water Corporation of WA website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

The park area is generally accessible from dawn to dusk. For safety and security reasons, overnight stays or late-night visits are usually not permitted. Always adhere to posted signage.

The BBQ facilities at Mundaring Weir are free to use. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's a good idea to arrive early if you plan to use them, especially on weekends.

While general access to the weir is free, there might be a small entry fee or donation requested for the No. 1 Pump Station Museum. It's advisable to check the Water Corporation's website or inquire on-site for current pricing.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can walk across the dam wall for scenic views, explore the No. 1 Pump Station Museum, enjoy picnics and BBQs, and access parts of the Bibbulmun Track for hiking. There are also interpretive plaques detailing the weir's history. Reddit

Yes, public toilets and water fountains are available within the Mundaring Weir park area, making it convenient for day visitors. Reddit

Fishing is generally not permitted within the reservoir itself due to water quality management. Always check signage and local regulations regarding recreational activities. Reddit

Absolutely! Mundaring Weir is a great family destination with picnic areas, BBQs, a playground, and plenty of open space to explore. The historical exhibits also offer an educational element for children. Reddit

You might spot kangaroos in the park areas, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. The surrounding bushland is also home to various bird species. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there are no cafes directly at the weir, the Mundaring Weir Hotel is nearby and offers dining options. You can also bring your own food for picnics and BBQs in the designated park areas. Reddit

Yes, Mundaring Weir has excellent BBQ facilities available for public use. These are located within the park area and are a popular choice for families and groups. Reddit

Mundaring town, a short drive from the weir, offers several cafes, bakeries, and pubs for more dining choices. The Mundaring Hotel is a notable option for a meal. Reddit

There are no shops or kiosks selling food and drinks directly at Mundaring Weir. It's best to bring your own supplies or plan to visit the nearby Mundaring town for purchases. Reddit

The Mundaring Weir Hotel typically serves pub-style meals, including classic dishes like burgers, steaks, and parmigianas. They also often have specials and a good selection of drinks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The dam wall offers stunning panoramic shots of the reservoir and the historic pumping station. The area around the No. 1 Pump Station also provides great heritage architecture for photography. Reddit

Yes, the expansive reservoir views, the surrounding bushland, and the imposing structure of the weir itself make it a great location for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh, but can still be used creatively. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits or prior approval. Always check with the Water Corporation if you have specific professional photography needs. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of the dam and reservoir. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the pumping station or wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mundaring Weir is a fantastic family outing! The spacious park with its BBQ facilities and playground makes it easy to spend a whole day here. Kids will love exploring the dam wall and imagining the journey of the water. The No. 1 Pump Station Museum offers an engaging way to learn about history, with interactive elements that can capture children's attention. Reddit

Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no shops on-site. The walking trails are generally easy to navigate, and the open spaces are perfect for running around. Just be mindful of the 'no dogs allowed' rule, so leave your furry friends at home for this trip. Reddit

🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers

For hikers, Mundaring Weir is a gateway to the Bibbulmun Track, one of the world's great long-distance walking trails. You can access sections of the track from near the weir for day hikes or longer treks. The walking trails around the weir itself offer beautiful scenery and a chance to connect with nature. Reddit

Keep an eye out for native flora and fauna, including various bird species and the resident kangaroos. The panoramic views from the dam wall are also a treat for nature lovers, offering a sense of scale and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The park's mature trees provide a peaceful environment for a leisurely stroll. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Mundaring Weir is a photographer's delight, offering a mix of heritage architecture and stunning natural landscapes. The dam wall provides dramatic perspectives, especially with the reservoir on one side and the historic pumping station on the other. Capture the imposing structure of the weir and the vastness of the water. Reddit

Golden hour – sunrise and sunset – offers the most magical light for capturing the beauty of the weir and its surroundings. The No. 1 Pump Station with its tall chimney stack is a fantastic subject for architectural photography. Don't forget to look for wildlife opportunities, particularly kangaroos in the park areas. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Golden Pipeline: A Marvel of Engineering

Mundaring Weir is a cornerstone of the Golden Pipeline, one of Western Australia's most ambitious engineering feats. Built between 1898 and 1903, this scheme was designed to transport water from the Perth hills all the way to the arid Goldfields, supporting the burgeoning gold mining industry. The sheer scale of the project, which involved pumping water over 500 kilometers, was revolutionary for its time and is a testament to the vision of engineer C.Y. O'Connor. Reddit

Visitors can learn about this incredible history at the No. 1 Pump Station Museum, located at the base of the weir. Here, you can see original pumping equipment and interactive displays that explain the complex process of water transfer. The interpretive exhibits scattered around the weir also provide fascinating insights into the challenges faced and overcome during its construction. It's a powerful reminder of how infrastructure can shape the development of a region. Reddit

Walking across the dam wall itself offers a tangible connection to this history. On one side, you gaze upon the vast reservoir that holds the precious water, and on the other, you see the imposing structure of the pumping station. The historical plaques along the way further enrich the experience, detailing the 'Scheme of Madness' as it was once called, and its eventual triumph. Reddit

Exploring the Mundaring Weir Park

The Mundaring Weir park is an expansive area perfect for a relaxing day out. It boasts numerous picnic spots and BBQ facilities, making it a popular destination for families and groups. Shady trees, many of which are of various species, provide ample cover, creating a tranquil atmosphere for enjoying a meal or simply unwinding. Reddit

For those seeking a bit more activity, the park offers walking trails that meander through the natural surroundings. You might even encounter some of the local wildlife, with kangaroos often seen grazing in the open areas. The park also features a playground, ensuring entertainment for younger visitors. The rose garden is another charming spot to explore, particularly beautiful when in bloom. Reddit

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of stairs scattered throughout the park, offering a good workout with rewarding views. The overall experience is one of natural beauty combined with well-maintained amenities, making it a well-loved local attraction. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2