Section 2 - Canning Dam to Roleystone (inc. Araluen)

From Canning Dam, head out along McNess Drive. The road winds through thick forest before emerging at Araluen Youth Camp. A small bridge leads over the Canning River and onto Croyden Road. About 200 metres west of the bridge, a drive leads up to the main Ararluen Park entrance.

The area around Canning Dam is thickly wooded.

Araluen Park began as a Young Australia League holiday camp in 1929, taking its name from the Aboriginal word for running waters. This 60 hectare park was purchased by the State Government in 1990 and transformed through a concerted restoration and planting program. Today the park boasts many exotic species of flora from around the world. The grounds are open to the public daily from 9am to 6pm and include a large gift shop, cafe and restaurant.

Floral display at the entrance to Araluen Park

After visiting Araluen, head west along Croyden Road as it follows the meandering banks of Canning River. This area has many fine homes and gardens, along with a couple of tearooms. About two kilometres from Araluen, you will pass Heritage Drive, which is the major road into Araluen Country Club. Views from the clubhouse are superb but this steep detour ride requires some real effort and is only recommended for experienced / fit riders. Croyden Road comes to an end at Brookton Highway. The Roleystone Theatre and public toilets are just across from the junction. Turn right into the Highway and proceed up the hill a short distance and then turn left at Holden Road.

Proceed up Holden Road for a kilometre and turn left into a shared path running down the northern side of Wygonda Road. This takes you to the small Roleystone Shopping Centre.