The Goldfields region of Western Australia is known for its rich gold mining history, but it’s also a playground for outdoor enthusiasts seeking rugged landscapes, unique wildlife, and exhilarating adventures. From hiking through dramatic gorges to exploring vast salt lakes and off-roading in the outback, the Goldfields offer a wide range of outdoor activities for adventurers of all ages. Here’s your guide to the top outdoor adventures in the Goldfields that will immerse you in the natural beauty and excitement of this iconic region.

1. Hiking in Kalgoorlie’s Bushland Trails

Kalgoorlie and the surrounding Goldfields are crisscrossed with scenic bushland trails, perfect for hikers looking to explore the rugged beauty of the outback. The Karlkurla Bushland Park, located just outside Kalgoorlie, is a great place to start. This 200-hectare park offers easy walking trails through native flora, with interpretive signs along the way to help you learn about the region’s plant life.

For more adventurous hikers, Rowles Lagoon Conservation Park offers longer walks through bushland surrounding the lagoon, where you can spot native birds and wildlife. These trails give visitors a chance to experience the peaceful and wide-open landscapes of the Goldfields.

What we love: The serenity of walking through native bushland and the opportunity to spot wildlife like kangaroos and emus along the trails.

Good to know: Kalgoorlie’s trails are well-marked, and Karlkurla Bushland Park offers shorter walks ideal for families and beginners.

Location: Karlkurla Bushland Park, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430

Image © Tourism Western Australia

2. 4WD Adventures: Off-Roading in the Goldfields

For thrill-seekers, the Goldfields region offers some of the best 4WD adventures in Western Australia. The rugged terrain, remote tracks, and open landscapes make it a paradise for off-road enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring abandoned ghost towns like Kookynie and Gwalia or venturing into the wilderness of the Goldfields, a 4WD vehicle is essential for accessing the more remote parts of the region.

Popular routes include the tracks around Ora Banda and the Hampton Hill Circuit, which takes you through historic mining sites and scenic desert vistas. These off-road adventures are perfect for those looking to get off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems of the Goldfields.

What we love: The freedom of off-roading through the open outback and the sense of adventure that comes with exploring forgotten ghost towns and remote landscapes.

Good to know: Make sure to bring plenty of water, food, and a GPS, as some of the tracks are isolated and require preparation for self-sufficient travel.

Location: Various off-road tracks throughout the Goldfields

3. Camping Under the Stars

There’s nothing quite like camping under the vast, starry skies of the Goldfields. The region offers several scenic campsites where you can pitch a tent and enjoy the peaceful outback atmosphere. One of the best spots for camping is Rowles Lagoon, a freshwater lake surrounded by bushland, making it an ideal place for a weekend getaway. With clear skies and minimal light pollution, this area is perfect for stargazing.

For a more remote camping experience, head to Lake Ballard, where you can set up camp near the famous Gormley sculptures. Here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking sunsets and uninterrupted views of the Milky Way.

What we love: The quiet solitude of camping in the Goldfields and the incredible night skies, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts.

Good to know: Some campsites, like Rowles Lagoon, offer basic facilities, but be prepared for self-sufficient camping in more remote areas like Lake Ballard.

Location: Rowles Lagoon Conservation Park and Lake Ballard

Image © Tim Campbell Photo

4. Birdwatching at Rowles Lagoon

Rowles Lagoon is not only a great camping and hiking destination but also a haven for birdwatching. As one of the few permanent freshwater lakes in the Goldfields, Rowles Lagoon attracts a wide variety of bird species, including black swans, pelicans, herons, and ducks. The surrounding bushland also provides habitat for smaller bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature photographers.

Bring a pair of binoculars and a camera, and spend the day spotting waterbirds as they glide across the lagoon or rest along the shoreline.

What we love: The tranquility of birdwatching at Rowles Lagoon, with the chance to see a wide variety of species in their natural habitat.

Good to know: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best birdwatching opportunities, as many species are most active during these times.

Location: Rowles Lagoon Conservation Park, WA 6430

5. Cycling the Goldfields Track

For those who prefer exploring on two wheels, the Goldfields Track offers an exciting cycling adventure through the region’s historic landscapes. This trail takes riders through a variety of terrains, from rocky outcrops to bushland, passing by old mining sites and ghost towns along the way. The trail can be challenging in parts, making it ideal for experienced mountain bikers looking for a rugged and rewarding ride.

Cycling through the Goldfields is a fantastic way to see the region’s natural beauty up close while also learning about its mining history. The Golden Quest Discovery Trail is another great cycling route that takes you through historic mining towns and scenic backcountry roads.

What we love: The combination of adventure and history along the Goldfields cycling tracks, with plenty of opportunities for exploration.

Good to know: Some parts of the track are remote and rugged, so be prepared for a physically demanding ride and ensure you have plenty of water and supplies.

Location: Goldfields Track and Golden Quest Discovery Trail

Image © Tourism Western Australia

6. Exploring Lake Ballard and the Gormley Sculptures

Lake Ballard is one of the most unique outdoor destinations in the Goldfields, known for its eerie, salt-crusted landscape and the famous Inside Australia art installation by Antony Gormley. The salt lake, located about two hours from Kalgoorlie, is dotted with 51 life-sized steel sculptures, which represent the local residents of the nearby town of Menzies.

Exploring Lake Ballard is a surreal experience, as the sculptures appear to blend into the stark, white landscape. It’s an ideal spot for photography, and the expansive views of the lake and surrounding hills are nothing short of breathtaking.

What we love: The striking contrast between the sculptures and the salt lake, creating a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure.

Good to know: The salt flats can be muddy after rain, so check conditions before visiting and wear appropriate footwear for walking across the lake.

Location: Lake Ballard, via Menzies, WA 6436

Image © Tourism Western Australia and credit @apertunity_ on social media

7. Wildflower Season: A Burst of Color

From July to October, the Goldfields region is transformed by the vibrant blooms of wildflowers. During this season, the landscape comes alive with a stunning array of colors, including everlastings, wattles, and banksias. The wildflowers provide a striking contrast to the rugged outback scenery and are a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.

For the best wildflower displays, head to Kalgoorlie National Park or the bushland around Coolgardie, where you can find fields of colorful blooms that stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s the perfect time to explore the region’s walking trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the outback.

What we love: The burst of color and beauty that wildflower season brings to the Goldfields, making it a photographer’s dream.

Good to know: Wildflower season can vary depending on rainfall, so check local conditions before planning your visit.

Location: Various locations around Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Final Thoughts

The Goldfields region is not just about its gold mining history—it’s a place where outdoor adventures await at every turn. From hiking and cycling through scenic bushland to camping under the stars and exploring vast salt lakes, the Goldfields offer a wealth of experiences for those who love nature and adventure. So pack your gear, hit the trails, and discover the rugged beauty and outdoor fun that the Goldfields have to offer.