Syd's Rapids and Aboriginal Heritage Trail, Avon Valley

The easy 5.2 kilometres Syd's Rapids and Aboriginal Heritage walk trail is located where the Walyunga National Park joins the Swan River, 40 kilometres north east of Perth. Taking half day or less to complete, this Top Trail provides interpretation on the indigenous history, plants and animals and the history of white water rafting in this beautiful location. Walyunga National Park lies in the Darling Range, just behind the Darling Scarp. The Swan River runs through the centre of the park, forming a string of placid pools along the valley floor in summer and a raging torrent with long series of rapids in winter. The latter provides one of Australia's best white water canoeing courses and is part of the annual Avon Descent race each August. The 5.2 kilometre Syd's Rapid trail leaves from Boongarup Pool and is a flat easy walk up to the rapids. The easy 1.2 kilometre Aboriginal Heritage Trail meanders along the river bank, between Walyunga Pool and Boogarup Pool, and allows people to learn about Aboriginal myths and legends and see the park's plants and animals through the eyes of the original inhabitants. The park is also known for sensational wildflowers in winter and spring.