Jarrahdale has cemented its reputation as the heart of Western Australia’s horse riding community, with two new trails officially opened in the historic town this week.
The trails project was made possible through a partnership between the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, and the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale Council. It’s supported by $1.9 million in Australian Government funding over two years through the Priority Community Infrastructure Program.
“Jarrahdale holds a special place in our Shire’s story, and these new trails build on its reputation as the heart of Western Australia’s horse trail network,” said President Coales.
The Whim Trail offers a relaxed 5km loop ideal for beginner riders, while the Jinker Trail stretches 20km through the forest for those seeking a longer adventure. For riders keen to go even further, a 4.2km spur, with breathtaking lookout over the Darling Range, extends the journey.
At the trailhead, visitors will find everything they need for a comfortable ride, including horse yards, mounting blocks, water, and a peaceful picnic area to rest and take in the forest surroundings.
The funding also included the upgraded car park at Gooralong in Jarrahdale adjacent to the popular Kitty’s Gorge trail, providing 30 parking bays to make it easier for visitors to reach Kitty’s Gorge, a key attraction in the Serpentine National Park.
The names Whim and Jinker are bedded in Jarrahdale’s history as a timber town. Over a century ago, large logs were hauled from the forest using basic machines such as ‘jinkers’ and ‘whims’. They were then placed on forest landings where they were transported to the sawmill by steam train. Riders along the Jinker Trail will be following some parts of the old railway corridor.
The trails were officially opened by WA Senator Ellie Whiteaker, on behalf of Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King.
She was joined by Minister for Peel, Jessica Stojkovski, Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale President, Rob Coales and Peel Development Commission Chair Myrianthe Riddy.
“Delivered under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program, the Whim and Jinker Trails project demonstrates the Program’s commitment to building Australia’s future by investing in community assets that promote active lifestyles, strengthen regional economies and preserve access to Western Australia’s unique natural landscapes,” said Senator Whiteaker.
“As a passionate but novice horse rider, I’m excited about today’s opening of the Jarrahdale Horse Trails. This high-quality expansion to Western Australia’s extensive trail networks will build new opportunities for nature-based tourism, community wellbeing, and economic diversification across Peel,” said Minister Stojkovski.
