4.7
(17)
144
hikers
4
hikes
Hiking in Rottnest Island State Reserve offers diverse landscapes, transitioning from coastal headlands and pristine beaches to tranquil inland salt lake systems. The island's terrain includes sandy coastal paths and more rugged sections, particularly towards the west end. As an A-Class Nature Reserve, it preserves unique flora and abundant wildlife. The Wadjemup Bidi, a 28-mile (45 km) network of trails, allows exploration of these varied environments.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
7.88km
02:03
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
7.44km
01:56
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(2)
13
hikers
15.6km
04:01
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
5.13km
01:20
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
A truly magical spot where you can see ospreys and dolphins (if you're lucky)! The coastline here is also incredibly beautiful! 😍👍🤙
2
0
The Kingston Barracks are a relic from the Second World War! Now you can stay overnight in them!
0
0
Wonderful location, several different types of beer and delicious food "around the clock"!
1
0
A great bay in the wild south of the island!
1
0
Perfect for seal watching or just gazing into the distance!
0
0
Another absolutely beautiful bay here on Rotto! Watch out for the cliff edge!
1
0
There are 4 dedicated hiking trails in Rottnest Island State Reserve that are easily accessible from bus stations, allowing you to explore the island's unique landscapes conveniently.
The trails accessible from bus stations on Rottnest Island offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll find sandy coastal paths, paved sections, and some more rugged natural tracks, especially as you venture towards the island's west end. Expect varied surfaces as you transition from pristine beaches to inland salt lake systems.
Yes, there are several easy options perfect for families. For instance, the Mable Cove – Rocky Bay Beach loop from Radar Hill (PA) is an easy 7.4 km route. Another great choice is the Hotel Rottnest loop from Rottnest Island, which is a 5 km easy hike, offering beautiful coastal views.
Hiking from bus stations allows you to discover many of Rottnest Island's natural and historical highlights. You can spot the famous Quokkas on Rottnest Island, visit stunning beaches like Little Parakeet Bay and Fish Hook Bay, and see iconic lighthouses such as Wadjemup Lighthouse and Bathurst Lighthouse. Many trails also lead to scenic viewpoints like the West End Viewpoint and the Cathedral Rocks Viewing Platform, where you might even spot New Zealand Fur Seals.
Yes, several circular routes are accessible from bus stations. The Mable Cove – West End Viewpoint loop from Rocky Bay is a moderate 7.8 km loop. For an easier option, consider the Hotel Rottnest loop from Rottnest Island, which is a 5 km easy circular hike.
Rottnest Island offers great hiking conditions for much of the year. Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) provide pleasant temperatures, ideal for longer walks. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the island's flora is often at its best. If you visit between August and December, you might also have the chance to spot migrating humpback whales from coastal viewpoints.
Absolutely! Rottnest Island is an 'A Class Nature Reserve' and famous for its unique wildlife. You're almost guaranteed to see quokkas, especially in the late afternoon. Keep an eye out for osprey nests along the coast, and from platforms like Cathedral Rocks, you can observe a New Zealand Fur Seal colony. The tranquil inland salt lakes, accessible via some trails, are also excellent for bird spotting.
The hiking trails in Rottnest Island State Reserve are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the opportunity to see unique wildlife like quokkas, and the convenience of accessing trails directly from the island's bus system.
While many trails are easy to moderate, you can combine sections or choose longer routes for a more extensive experience. The Bathurst Lighthouse – Hotel Rottnest loop from Rottnest Island is a moderate 15.5 km hike, offering a longer exploration of the island's northern and eastern coasts, providing a good challenge for those looking for a full day out.
No, Rottnest Island is an 'A Class Nature Reserve' with unique and protected wildlife, including the quokka. To protect this delicate ecosystem, pets, including dogs, are not permitted on the island or its hiking trails.
Yes, many of the trails accessible from bus stations will take you past or directly to some of Rottnest Island's most beautiful bays and beaches. You'll find numerous opportunities for a refreshing swim at spots like Little Parakeet Bay, Henrietta Rocks, Parker Point, and Marjorie Bay, making it easy to combine hiking with a dip in the ocean.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.