Bushwalks and Beers: Exploring the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail from the Mahogany Inn & Distillery
There’s something great about going on a weekend wander (or midweek wander if you have time), finishing with a cold drink and a hearty meal. And in the Perth Hills, that pairing hits new heights with a leisurely walk along the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail, followed by a pint (or a gin) at the heritage listed Mahogany Inn and Distillery (affectionately known as The Inn).
This is bushwalking and beer at its best — local, laid-back, and close enough from the city to reach, but far enough to retreat (you can even book a room and stay the night if you want to truly get away).
The Walk: Railway Reserves Heritage Trail (From Mahogany Creek Section)
Distance: Choose-your-own-adventure (2km–41km)
Trail type: Shared-use (walkers, cyclists, horse riders)
Grade: Easy
Surface: Crushed gravel, well-maintained
Start point: Mahogany Creek (if walking from The Inn), or Glen Forrest, Darlington or Mundaring access points a short drive from The Inn.
The Railway Reserves Heritage Trail follows the old Eastern Railway route, winding through forests, hills, and historic townships of the Perth Hills. The Mahogany Creek to Glen Forrest or Mahogany Creek to Mundaring stretch offers gentle gradients, peaceful tree-lined trail sections, and the occasional encounter with local wildlife — from kookaburras to quendas.
The whole loop trail is peppered with old railway relics, charming footbridges, and plenty of shady spots to pause. You can make it a short out-and-back stroll, or do the whole loop, depending on your level of fitness, physical ability, whether you’re walking or riding a bike and how soon you want that drink.
Highlights:
– Birdsong and breeze through beautiful jarrah, marri, flooded gum, swamp peppermint, and paperbark trees at various points on the trail
– Quiet, uncrowded trails even on weekends
– Dog-friendly trail – as long as your dog is on a lead (dogs not permitted where the trail passes through John Forrest National Park)
– Dog-friendly venue – well behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the Inn’s garden bar and verandah
The Reward: Mahogany Inn and Distillery
Location: 4260 Great Eastern Hwy, Mahogany Creek WA
Established: 1842
What to expect: Historic charm, own range of spirits distilled onsite, great selection of beers on tap, hearty pub meals
Once you’ve clocked some steps, dust off your boots and settle in at the Mahogany Inn and Distillery, just off the trail on the corner of Homestead Road and Great Eastern Highway. This iconic establishment is one of the oldest inns in Western Australia, but it’s far from stuck in the past.
Yes, the stone walls and fireplaces ooze colonial charm. But the real surprise is the on-site distillery, which produces a small-batch gin and spirits range that rivals the best boutique labels in WA. There’s also a wine list with WA heroes, a range of beers on tap and a kitchen turning out elevated, hearty dishes.
What to Order:
– Gin & Tonic featuring the house-made Spirits of Mahogany Dry Gin
– Vodka and Soda featuring the award winning, house-made Spirits of Mahogany Vodka
– Locally made wine, such as Mandoon Estate Rose or Myattsfield Durif
– Bangers and mash or the fish of the day — perfect after a hike
– Dessert tip: The sticky date pudding is a fan favourite
Grab a table in the leafy beer garden if the sun’s out, or settle by the fireplace in winter. Either way, this is one of those places where the outside world just fades away.
Plan Your Bushwalks and Beers Day
9:00 AM: Arrive at Mahogany Creek or Glen Forrest
9:15 AM: Hit the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail for a 6–10km walk, out and back
1:00PM: Return to your start point and head to The Inn
1:15PM: Lunch and drinks at Mahogany Inn and Distillery
3:30 PM: Optional: Pick up a bottle of house gin or award winning vodka to take home
3:45 PM: Head home feeling happily fed, watered, and mildly bush-dusted
Or why not book a spacious, deluxe room, retire to your room, have a nap, freshen up and return to the restaurant for a delicious meal followed by a night of live entertainment with music in the main bar (or garden bar, depending on the time of year).
Why This Combo Works
Low effort, high reward: The trail is accessible and easy-going, but still offers that satisfying “I did something active” vibe.
Historic meets modern: The heritage of the railway and The Inn adds depth to the experience — you’re literally walking through history.
Local gems: Supporting locally made-made spirits, wine and food while enjoying the great outdoors? That’s a win on all fronts.
Tips Before You Go:
– Bring water for the trail, especially in warmer months
– Trail is family- and dog-friendly (on lead) and so is The Inn’s garden bar
– Book ahead for lunch at Mahogany Inn on weekends — it gets popular
– Ask the staff about the gin and vodka produced onsite — you can have a free taster
– If cycling, the trail is perfect for gravel or mountain bikes
– Book a room in advance if you’re planning on staying the night, to avoid disappointment.
Final Word
Bushwalks and beers might just be the ultimate WA weekend ritual — and Mahogany Creek is the perfect destination. Whether you’re there for a Sunday stroll, a cheeky midweek lunch, or just want to swap the city noise for birdsong and a cold drink, this combo has the goods.
Walk. Drink. Eat. Stay. Repeat.
See the map of the Railway reserves Heritage Trail here
