As well as being an idyllic place for a scenic drive, a picnic with friends, or bushwalking, Mundaring Weir is also an important part of Western Australia’s heritage.

Located in natural bushland in the Perth Hills, Mundaring Weir is one of the world’s greatest engineering projects.

Completed in 1903, the Weir was the start of the water pipeline that pumped water to the Kalgoorlie goldfields, some 700 kilometres away.

At the foot of the weir is the Number 1 Pump Station Museum where you can learn more about the brilliant engineer behind the project, C.Y. O’Connor, who endured much public criticism and tragically took his own life.

A drive trail that follows the pipeline called the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail starts at the museum.

There are several walking trails around Mundaring Weir that take you deep into the virgin bush.

You’ll see beautiful native plants, animals and plenty of birds. You can also walk across the massive concrete weir wall.

Pack a picnic and enjoy the barbecue facilities, grassed areas and shady trees. While improvement works are underway, there will be limited access both above and below the Weir wall.

Mundaring Weir is about a 40 minute drive from Perth.