Mumballup: Bibbulmun Track, Glen Mervyn Dam and Forrest Tavern

When planning a stay in Mumballup, you can consider three distinct interests: the route of the Bibbulmun Track, activities at Glen Mervyn Dam and the architecture of the Forrest Tavern. Together, they give the town different characteristics. Consider whether hiking, time by the water or an architectural feature should shape your stay.

Hiking and scenery

The Bibbulmun Track crosses the dam wall at Glen Mervyn Dam and then descends to the Forrest Tavern. The tavern is in the small settlement of Mumballup on Donnybrook-Boyup Brook Road. The route described therefore leads from crossing the dam wall down to the tavern in the settlement.

The Mumballup section of the Bibbulmun Track offers hikers views across the Preston Valley. In addition, the Mumballup area offers the opportunity to walk through one of the best stands of old-growth jarrah forest in the southwest. These are distinct landscape highlights: views across the valley and the chance to experience old-growth forest on foot. When planning, you can therefore consider whether you are more interested in the route or the landscape.

Glen Mervyn Dam: water and day use

Swimming is possible at Glen Mervyn Dam in Mumballup, and fishing is permitted there year-round. The year-round reference applies to fishing; do not automatically assume it applies to swimming. Water conditions and access rules can change. So check current conditions before swimming; if you plan to fish, check the applicable rules before your trip.

There is a day-use picnic area on the eastern shore of Glen Mervyn Dam, with toilets and picnic tables. These facilities for taking a break during the day complement the opportunities for swimming and fishing. Before visiting, check whether the area and its facilities are currently available, as such amenities can change.

The dam has two distinct roles in travel planning: the track crosses its dam wall, while swimming, fishing and the picnic area are options for spending time by the water. This lets you distinguish the route from the activities and day-use facilities at the dam.

Architecture in Mumballup

The Forrest Tavern is a good example of a tavern in the Federation Queen Anne style. This gives architecture enthusiasts a specific point of interest in addition to hiking and nature. The tavern is also part of the route described: the Bibbulmun Track descends to it. So you can consider the architectural interest and hiking together, without treating them as if they say the same thing about Mumballup. The style adds a built-environment perspective to the views across the Preston Valley and the opportunities at the dam.

Discover more destinations: North Fremantle, Treeton, Rosa Glen, Green Head, Wellington Mill, Denbarker, Broadwater, Carabooda

For the broader travel overview: Western Australia.