Last Updated on 12 August 2024 by Ariana Svenson
There are so many things to do in Pemberton; we wish we had allowed more time. We recently had a midwinter escape. Pemberton, WA, is a cute timber town with an active mill and lots of fun things to do with kids.
This charming town is truly located in tall timber country, and there are nature-based activities galore to fill your lungs with fresh country air.
Wondering what to do in Pemberton? One of the best things to do in Pemberton is enjoying the forests. Pemberton is surrounded by three national parks, The Gloucester, Warren, and Beedelup National Park. You will be wowed by the towering Karri forests. These are the tallest trees in Western Australia, many of which are over 400 years old.
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Here is our top list of what to do in Pemberton.
** Who are we? We are Western Australian locals and over the years I can’t count the number of times we have visited Pemby (that’s the local name for Pemberton). The things we have shared here come from many visits with the kids at different ages and stages. As they are getting older I have some grand plans to get into the more adventurous activities in the next couple of years.
Which Pemberton are you Looking for?
Have you heard of a tourist town called Pemberton before? You might be confused with Pemberton, British Columbia, Canada, a small village in the coastal mountains 100 miles (159 km) north of Vancouver.
Pemberton, British Columbia, was first settled during the Canadian gold rush between 1858 and 1860. It was named for Joseph Pemberton, the surveyor-general for the Vancouver Island colony who was responsible for laying out the city of Victoria’s townsite.
The village’s look is rustic and has the appearance of being from an old west movie. As such, it has been used as a movie set and for car commercials.
There are some uncanny similarities with Pemberton, Western Australia. For example, it seems it was settled by the Europeans more or less at the same time as its Canadian counterpart.
Following an expedition to the Pemberton, Australia, area in 1861 by Edward Brockman and his uncle Pemberton Walcott, the Brockman family established the Warren homestead on the Warren River and Walcott, for whom the town would be named Karri Dale Farm.
Pemberton, Western Australia, also has a rustic appearance. However, it is significantly smaller in population, with only 720 residents compared with 2,500 in Pemberton, British Columbia.
Map of the Top Things to Do in Pemberton + Places to Stay
Top Things to Do in Pemberton, WA
1. Gloucester Tree Pemberton
Location: Burma Rd, Pemberton
**Currently closed The 61-metre-tall Gloucester and Dave Evans Bicentennial trees were closed to climbers in 2023 for structural safety reasons. ** might re-open in April 2025, check for updated information on their website.
Once used as fire lookouts, the climbing trees in Warren National Park Pemberton are thrilling places to visit for those who love heights. In the days before aeroplane surveillance for fires, these fire towers made a network across the forest.
Gloucester tree is the most famous climbing tree in the Pemberton area. It is only a short 5-minute drive from the centre of Pemberton.
Three short walking trails of 400m and 800m also begin from the Gloucester Tree picnic area. So even if you don’t climb the tree (like this mumma!), there is still something to do.
There are some covered picnic tables in the area close to the base of the tree and carpark, and this makes a great place for a picnic.
Be warned, these climbing trees are not for the faint of heart. There are metal rods into the tree for rungs and chicken wire for protection and support if you slip!
This 53-meter-high giant tree is very tall. There are no safety ropes, so climbing is at your own risk! Be sure you are not very afraid of heights, or you might have trouble climbing down. Everyone who does make it up the tree raves about the view from the top.
We estimate that the Gloucester Tree Pemberton would be an activity for children 10 and up.
While the iconic Gloucester Tree remains closed for refurbishment, an exciting new aerial adventure course has opened within the Gloucester National Park. Designed in collaboration with French adventure park experts Arboricorde, this thrilling adventure paroffers challenges for kids, teenagers, and adults alike. There are plenty of things to explore, including floating zig zag bridges, suspended rope walkways, and a 100-meter flying fox, all set against the stunning backdrop of the park’s majestic Karri trees.
For those less inclined towards high-adrenaline activities, the site will also feature a welcoming Karri Cafe where visitors can soak in the majesty of the forest while enjoying local produce. Access to the Aerial Adventure course is paid, but visitation to the Gloucester National Park itself is currently free of charge for the next six months (last update: June 2024). Check out their website or Facebook profile for updated details.
2. The Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree – The Tallest Climbing Tree in the World
Location: Yeagerup Fishing track, off the Old Vasse Road.
Also closed, see above.
In addition to the Gloucester Tree, one of the top Pemberton activities is to climb the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree. The Diamond Tree near Manjimup has now closed.
Located in Warren National Park, this tree is the tallest of the three lookout trees, at 75 meters high. The Bicentennial Tree is named in honour of Australia’s bicentennial year, 1988, and was opened to the public in that same year.
This climb is not for the faint-hearted, as there are no safety nets, and it’s a true test of your head for heights.
4. Pemberton Playground
Location: 38 Brockman St, Pemberton
There is a fun playground opposite the main group of shops in Pemberton. It is ideal while someone is over in the IGA (the only grocery store in town). The children’s playground has shelter and shade for hot days.
While it isn’t one of the best playgrounds in all of Western Australia, it was sufficient for the kids.
5. Beedelup Falls
Location: Beedelup National Park, Beedelup
Located in the heart of the forest, Beedelup Falls is an easy 2km drive from the main road. From there it’s a short 300m walk to the falls, which is perfect for little legs.
The Beedelup Falls are just beautiful in winter, though they can be a little dry in the hot Aussie summer. The Karri forest has a beautiful misty feel in the winter and birdlife all year round.
We did the loop around the falls, which was a nice break while driving a car.
Beedelup falls is one of the best waterfalls in the Perth area!
Tips & Hints
If you are staying at the highly recommended Karri Valley Resort (see below), then it is a 2km round trip. This is a beautiful way to explore the forest while also stretching your legs.
Other Things to Do in Pemberton
We have these things to do in Pemberton on our list for our next visit. These were all Pemberton things to do that we wanted to get to initially but simply ran out of time. If you spend more than a day, perhaps you can add them to your itinerary.
6. Forest Drives
When you travel with kids, you know that drives to put the kids to sleep are always on the cards. The good news is that Pemberton has some absolutely spectacular drives where you can be wowed while the kids sleep.
I just had to do the Heartbreak trail, which is a 12 km drive trail that winds through the magnificent Karri forest and along the Warren River. It takes you to the Dave Evans Bicentennial and Marianne North trees.
Another amazing drive is the Karri Forest Explorer Drive. The drive is well-signposted and includes several highlights, such as the Big Brook Dam, Beedelup Falls, and the Warren River.
7. Bushwalks
There are lots of wonderful opportunities and hikes of varying distances in and around Pemberton. Depending on the age of your children and the weather when you visit, we recommend doing some bushwalks around Pemberton.
The tall old-growth forests are so magnificent and peaceful, and most trails are well-marked.
When in town, visit the Pemberton Visitor Centre (also Pemberton Tourist Information Centre), located on the main street, for maps and suggestions tailored to your family’s abilities.
Cascades
One of the easiest short walks around Pemberton is at the Cascades, just a few kilometres out of town. The walk from the carpark down to the falls (or the Cascades) is sealed and downhill.
There are steps and boardwalks, so not ideal for those who find them difficult.
Be warned, I let my kids run ahead and discovered them playing in the rapids when I got there.
The Big Brook Dam has a 4km sealed track around it with wheelchair access the whole way, which would work well if you are pushing a pram.
Alternatively, the 100-year-old forest sounds so romantic and offers an easy 1.5 km walk trail through regenerated karri forest.
8. Hidden River Estate – Food, Wine and Even a Playground
Location: 156 Mullineaux Road, Pemberton, Eastbrook
A visit to the Hidden River Estate is a fantastic thing to do around Pemberton. The restaurant is a perfect spot for a family lunch.
We recommend sitting out on the terrace to enjoy the view and conversation (the main dining area can get quite loud). Many people rave about the wonderful food, especially the options on the kid’s menu.
In fact, besides the great kid’s menu options, Hidden River Estate has things to keep kids entertained. They have a grassy area where kids can burn off energy, swings, slides, and a sandpit.
Besides the restaurant, winery, and play area, several farm animals can be seen wandering about. This is truly a great place to stop for a bite to eat, sample the wines, and enjoy your time in Pemberton.
9. Trout Fishing
Keen to try your hand at some of the best fishing in Pemberton Western Australia? If so, Old Vasse Trout And Marron Farm is just the place. They have a fully stocked trout pound among the karri trees at the edge of Warren National Park.
Did you know that Karri trees can reach up to 90m? Read more Western Australia facts here >>>
Old Vasse caters to novices as well as experienced anglers. Don’t have a fishing pole? That is no problem. They can provide you with one for a small fee of $5.
Keep in mind there is a $15 entrance fee for adults and $10 per child.
Also, you pay for the trout you catch. They do not practice catch and release. Any trout caught is packed up for you to take home with you. The trout’s cost depends on the fish’s length and weight.
This attraction is located south of Pemberton. Even if fishing isn’t on the agenda, you can still purchase whole trout and marron directly from them. Trout fishing tops our what to do in Pemberton list.
10. Visit Mountford Winery and Tangletoe Cidery
Location: Bamess Rd, Pemberton
Mountford Winery is one of the top Pemberton tourist attractions, as well as being one of the best local wineries in Pemberton. It’s a hidden gem known for its cool-climate wines. The winery is family-friendly, with a charming garden and picnic area.
During your visit, you can try their world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The cellar door is open for tastings, and the staff are always eager to share insights about the winemaking process.
Mountford Winery also offers platters featuring local produce, perfect for pairing with their wines. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon exploring Pemberton’s wine country.
11. Visit the Pemberton Lavender And Berry Farm + Vëska Café
Location: 174 Browns Rd, Pemberton
The number of families that poured through the gates while we were there shows that the Lavender and Berry Farm is top of the things to do in Pemberton for Kids list. With good reason—this place is awesome, especially on a sunny day.
The first stop for us was feeding the alpacas. The shop sells a bag of feed for $2. This activity was a winner with the kids. We also petted the ponies, which you cannot feed due to their diets.
There are lovely gardens to run in. The gardens are filled with plenty of lavender and berry plants, as to be expected.
Great picnic tables are set up overlooking a picturesque lake and playground. We were close enough to supervise the children while also being able to enjoy our meals.
With hot cheese chicken toasties, hot chips, and the famous blueberry pancake, this could only be described as tasty, hearty country fare and perfect for kids.
An attractive shop sells delicious jams, preserves, and soaps—a win-win for everyone. The Lavender and Berry Farm & Cafe is one of the top things to do in Pemberton, WA.
Tips & Hints
Order your food, and then go play with the alpacas. While it would be best to visit while it’s not raining, there is also a cozy dining room.
Pemberton WA Accommodation Options
12. Go Mountain Biking in Pemberton Mountain Bike Park
Location: Swimming Pool Rd, Pemberton
If you’re looking for a high-adrenaline activity in Pemberton, Pemberton Mountain Bike Park is the perfect destination. There’s a large trail suitable for all skill levels, from cross-country to downhill trails, which wind through the Karri forests.
The Pump Track and Skills Park are perfect for learning biking techniques before heading out on the longer trails.
Bike rentals are available in town, making it easy to hit the trails even if you don’t bring your own gear.
Tips
- Make sure to wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet and gloves.
- Check the trail conditions before you go, especially during the wet season when trails can become slippery.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
13. A Donnelly River Cruise
The Donnelly River Cruise starts in the Karri forests and winds down a 12km section of the Donnelly River and the Jarrah Forest.
The cruise will help you learn a lot about the plants and animals in the area through the guided commentary. You will travel through wetlands, sand dunes, and forests; there are plenty of wildlife spotting and photography opportunities.
There’s also a beach landing, which is only accessible by boat.
Bus transfers are available from Pemberton Visitor Centre and Manjimup Visitors Centre.
14. Pemberton Pool
Location: LOT 12183 Swimming Pool Rd,
Pemberton Pool is a beloved local spot surrounded by towering Karri trees. The pool is natural and the perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring.
Originally constructed in the 1920s as a recreational facility for timber workers, Pemberton Pool is now popular with visitors. The pool is fed by the Lefroy Brook and has clean and cool water year-round.
The area around the pool has picnic tables, BBQ facilities, and a playground.
15. D’Entrecasteaux National Park
Location: D’Entrecasteaux Dr, Windy Harbour
One of the top things to do near Pemberton is visit D’Entrecasteaux National Park. The park has dramatic cliffs, expansive beaches, beautiful lakes, and forests.
One of the park’s highlights is the Yeagarup Dunes, the largest land-locked mobile dune system in the Southern Hemisphere. You can explore the sand dunes on foot or by 4WD.
Lake Jasper, the largest freshwater lake in the park, is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking.
The park is also home to several walking trails where you can also go bird spotting.
Things to do in Northcliffe
1. Understory (Southern Forest Sculpture Walk)
Location: Lot 178 Muirillup Rd, Northcliffe
Located in Northcliffe, a short 25-minute drive from Pemberton, this Understory sculpture walk was everyone’s favorite for the day. Sure, we like walking, but this is an exceptionally well-put-together art walk.
From the moment that Master 2 was able to see the blackened faces in the trees (and Nanna couldn’t), we were all captivated as we enthusiastically discovered different artworks.
Even for the children, the pieces were so beautifully created they stimulated intellectual and whimsical engagement with the forest. Gorgeous! Plus, you can spot wildflowers when they are in season. Check out our best wildflowers in Western Australia guide.
Tips & Hints
Arrive before 3 p.m. We arrived too late in the day to hire the audio, which has adult sections and children’s recordings to listen to in the animal story nooks.
We suspect Master 2 wouldn’t have sat still long enough to enjoy them, but this would be an asset for children 5 and older.
For the adults, it was joyous to be part of a walk of discovery with the kids, and their enthusiasm was contagious. We may have liked to know more about the artworks themselves, but maybe this would have occurred on lap 2.
The 1.2 km loop took us about 30 minutes. At a slower pace, you could spend an hour with the audio recording.
There is a playground across from the sculpture walk—this might be a good option for adults who want to enjoy the commentary and thoughtful reflection.
Where to Stay in Pemberton
RAC Karri Valley Resort
Location: 11342 Vasse Highway Yeagarup, Yeagarup
This hotel is situated beside Lake Beedelup, which makes for a wonderful location. Karri Valley Resort is a modest lakeside bush resort. Keep in mind it is located approximately 22km south of Pemberton.
There are two types of accommodations offered here. Choose from self-contained chalets nestled into the karri trees or more hotel-like rooms overlooking Lake Beedelup. Don’t expect a 5-star hotel, but more of a stunning bush getaway.
The balcony view overlooking the lake from the cabin was to die for and we also had this view from our bedroom. The birds that come to visit are a delight.
Given the resort is so far from town having self-contained accommodation is useful – especially if you caught trout as we did.
The location is spectacular. Many birds, kangaroos, and emus can be spotted from your room or chalet. Plus, there are so many activities to choose from.
You can rent a SUP, rowboat, canoe, or kayak for a small fee. There is also an animal farm and archery. Remember, too, this lake is filled with trout. So bring your fishing pole. This is a great Pemberton accommodation.
Check Booking.com for current rates to stay at RAC Karri Valley Resort.
Check Expedia.com for current rates to stay at RAC Karri Valley Resort.
Check Agoda.com for current rates to stay at RAC Karri Valley Resort.
Treenbrook Cottages
Location: 12928 Vasse Hwy, Pemberton
Treenbrook Cottages is a lovely accommodation choice in Pemberton, WA. The self-contained mudbrick cottages are nestled on 12 acres that border the Treenbrook State Forest.
Each cottage has a full kitchen, private verandah, and BBQ. It is also spacious, with enough room for the entire family. There are also games, videos for the kids, and other activities, including feeding the resident alpacas.
Several forest walking trails are behind the lovely cottages. Treenbook Cottages is only a five-minute drive from Pemberton, making it an ideal location.
Check Booking.com for current rates to stay at the Treenbrook Cottages.
Check Agoda.com for current rates to stay at the Treenbrook Cottages.
Check Expedia.com for current rates to stay at the Treenbrook Cottages.
Pemberton Farm Stay Options
There are plenty of farm stay options around Pemberton. They are some of the best farm stays in Western Australia:
Diamond Forest Farm Stay
Location: 29159 S Western Hwy, Middlesex
If you are looking for a Pemberton Farm Stay option, consider Diamond Forest Farm Stay. With so much to do for the entire family, you are sure to keep busy. Note that the Diamond Forest Farm Stay is located halfway between Manjimup and Pemberton.
The cottages are cozy with private verandahs to enjoy your morning coffee or a quick snack on. The chalets are self-contained and can accommodate up to 5-guests.
They are also dog-friendly which is a big plus! This is a great dog-friendly accommodation in Western Australia option.
Farm activities include daily animal feedings, petting pens, a playground, a game room, a fishing pond, and a firepit to relax around. Not to mention this is a gorgeous country setting with breathtaking scenery.
Check Agoda.com for current rates to stay at Diamond Forest Farm Stay.
Check Booking.com for current rates to stay at Diamond Forest Farm Stay.
Check Expedia.com for current rates to stay at Diamond Forest Farm Stay.
Pump Hill Farm Cottages
Location: 129 Pump Hill Rd, Pemberton
Pump Hill Farm Cottages offer a unique accommodation farm stay option in Pemberton, WA. The self-contained cottages sleep 4-9 people, great if you have a larger group. Fully equipped kitchens, a private BBQ, and a gas stove all come standard in each cottage.
Pump Hill offers all the typical farm stay experiences like animal feedings, bird watching, and bush walks. Perhaps a bit more rustic than other similar farm stay options, Pump Hill should not be overlooked.
Check Agoda.com for currents rates to stay Pump Hill Farm Cottages.
Check Expedia.com for currents rates to stay Pump Hill Farm Cottages.
Where to Eat in Pemberton?
Hidden River Estate is a truly boutique winery with stunning views across the vines in the Pemberton region. Connoisseurs will enjoy tastings while families love the old converted tram carriage that adjoins a cubby house.
How to Get to Pemberton from Perth
The best way to travel from Perth to Pemberton is directly down the South West Highway, through Bunbury, Donnybrook, and then Manjimup. 16km south of Manjimup, on the road to Walpole, you will see the turnoff to Pemberton.
Make sure you read our guide to things to do in Walpole if you’re planning a stop!
All up, it takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes to travel from Perth to Pemberton without stopping, or you can plan a Perth to Pemberton road trip.
In total, it is 30km or 30 minutes of driving from Manjimup to Pemberton. If you are travelling with kids, we highly recommend following these stops in our Great Stops For Kids On A South West Australia Road Trip recommendations.
Speaking of Perth, don’t forget to check out all our amazing Perth Resources here.
Visiting Pemberton on a Road Trip
Pemberton is a key stop in some of the best road trips around Western Australia, most of which start in Perth.
If you’re planning a WA road trip, make sure you read our Perth to Albany road trip guide and our Margaret River to Albany road trip guide.
And if you are looking for other travel destinations, check out our guide on the best things to do in Denmark, just a 2-hour drive from Pemberton.
Pemberton and the Bibbulmun Track
If you love hiking, Pemberton is a key stopping point on the Bibbulmun Track, one of Western Australia’s premier long-distance walking trails, stretching nearly 1,000 kilometers from Kalamunda in the Perth Hills to Albany on the south coast.
The Verdict – Things to do in Pemberton
There are many things to do in Pemberton, Western Australia that you could very easily spend several days exploring.
Pemberton is a nature-lovers playground with plenty to offer each member of the family. Whether it is a great bushwalk, having an amazing Pemberton farm stay experience, trout fishing, or even wine tasting the choice is yours.
Plus, with so many great Pemberton, WA accommodations, you could easily make it a weekend getaway for the family.
These are our top Pemberton things to do. Do you have any ideas on what to do in Pemberton? If so, we would love to hear from you. Please leave it in our comments below.
[…] you can, allow 1 full day in Pemberton. We have covered the many things to do in the Best Things To Do In Pemberton WA. There are LOADS of […]
Unfortunately the pemberton Tram has closed however there are other quality tours available to do in and around the town.
These local operators have been operating for years and dedicate their time and Experience to make sure you have a holiday to remember.
http://Www.pembertondiscoverytours.com.au (we also run WAWilderness) – with 4WD ecotours that are fantastic for all ages
Also check Pemberton Hiking and Canoeing and Donnelly River Cruises.
Hi Toni, Thanks for the heads up, I have made the update. I have to spend some time adding to the Pemberton page soon; probably need to make a trip to Pemby or Northcliffe. I want to add things like Mt.Chudalup, Yeagerup dunes, and the Donnelly river cruise that you mention.