“Cycling has become the most rapidly growing form of outdoor recreation, not only in Western Australia, but also in many other parts of the world”.

The City of Swan aims to develop a network of dual use cycle and pedestrian paths throughout the Swan Valley over the coming years. As the City works within a budget, not all of this can be done at once, but sections are being prioritised to link in with communities, attractions, businesses and infrastructure.

In 2004/5 the City spent $550,000 building almost three kilometres of path along the western side of West Swan Road, between George Street, West Swan and Henley Street, Henley Brook. This stretch of path will be a major link for many tourism businesses. It will also join the Maali Footbridge, which will enable cyclists and walkers to cross the Swan River, providing linkages to the eastern side of the valley.  

The Swan Valley Cycle Trail will accommodate cyclists of all ages and abilities, as well as pedestrians and people with impaired mobility.

State Government Support

December 2004, the State Government announced that it would contribute $800,000 to the Swan Valley Bike Plan, which will enable much faster progress on the Swan Valley Bike Plan.

This funding will help undertake work that complements what the City has already undertaken and committed to through the Swan Valley Bike Plan. It will also add another layer to the attractiveness of the City’s successful Swan Valley Food and Wine trail which recently won a WA tourism award for best new tourism development.

The State Government’s funding will enable the bike trails to be extended northwards to provide an important cycle link between the Swan Valley and the growing residential areas of Ellenbrook and the Vale. This residential community, which is expected to grow to 45,000 people, will now be able to more easily access and appreciate the many Swan Valley tourism experiences on their doorstep.

The link will not only provide an important tourism connection, but also will help residents access employment in the Swan Valley’s growing tourism sector.

Additionally the funding will enable the completion of a number of paths already planned by the City of Swan. This broad range of initiatives will implement important aspects of the Swan Valley Bike Trail to provide benefits to the local community, visitors and businesses and make the Swan Valley more accessible and safer for all.

So what exists now?

There is currently almost 3kms of dual use path (pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchairs) on West Swan Road and, which provide an opportunity for visitors and residents to get out and see some of the attractions the Swan Valley has to offer, while enjoying some exercise.

There are also further stretches of dual use path at various locations throughout the region including at the top of Great Northern Highway (it is envisaged that future works will ultimately link these paths.)

Additionally there are stretches of sealed shoulder on West Swan Road,

Great Northern Highway, Roe/Reid Highway, Lord Street and Benara Road. Whilst these adhere to guidelines, these are located on fast roads and are not currently recommended for family cycling.

Where can I cycle now?

It is suggested that you drive to and park your car at Maali Bridge (access from Great Northern Highway – see map) and commence your bike ride from there.

From here cross the Swan River (Maali Bridge) and you are able to access a number of tourist attractions on West Swan Road via 3 kilometres of dual use path.

What is happening withn the next 12 months (2005-2006)?

In addition to ongoing works on the cycle path network itself, high quality interpretive panels will be placed along the trail route 2005/6. Furthermore, a detailed trail guide will be produced that includes additional interpretive material, a detailed map of the trail route.

What about beyond 2005-2006?

The City of Swan is currently working to prioritise future stages of the Swan Valley Bike Plan.

Swan Valley Map

For a detailed map of the Swan Valley, listing all attractions, please contact the Swan Valley Visitor Centre, 9am-4pm 7 days a week on (08) 9379 9400 or email visitorcentre@swan.wa.gov.au 

A printable version of the map is available on the website www.swanvalley.com.au (the map is usuable in black and white, but is colour coded and therefore preferable to print in colour).

Aims of the Swan Valley Bike Plan

The aim of the trail is to provide a unique and healthy means of travelling through the Swan Valley region.

The trail will enrich the experience of visitors to the Swan Valley, making their stay more meaningful and enjoyable; and it will assist visitors to develop a keener awareness, appreciation and understanding of the history and on-going development of the Swan Valley and its multi-faceted natural and cultural heritage.

The trail will also be of economic benefit to businesses in the region.

More information

Should you require any further information about the Swan Valley Bike Plan, please contact the City of Swan, Product Development Officer, Tourism who will be able to direct your call to the appropriate person, according to your question. Tel: 08 9379 9500

© City of Swan 2000-2010