Gnangara Off-road Vehicle Area

About Gnangara Off-road Vehicle Area

Gnangara Off-road Vehicle Area is a designated 350-hectare OHV riding area within Gnangara State Forest, located north of Perth near Lexia and managed by the WA Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. It is one of the few formal off-road vehicle areas close to metropolitan Perth and is open to motorcycles and quad bikes of all engine capacities. Entry is free and the area is open every day of the year except during total fire ban days. The main trail is the Lexia Loop, an 8 km sand trail that starts and finishes at the first cleared block north of the pine plantation. Terrain is predominantly soft sand and can be challenging for small-wheeled or low-powered bikes. Note that the area has suffered from maintenance underfunding and rubbish dumping in recent years — riders should check current conditions via the RTRA or DLGSC before visiting, as temporary closures have occurred in the past.

Trails & terrain

• Lexia LoopThe primary marked trail: an 8 km sand circuit developed in 2011. It starts and finishes at the cleared block north of the pine plantation and is suitable for riders who are comfortable on soft sand.
• Terrain typePredominantly soft, whooped-out sand throughout the area. Small-wheeled bikes (e.g. trail bikes with narrow tyres) may find the surface more demanding than larger enduro machines.
• Area size350 hectares within Gnangara State Forest, providing space for informal riding beyond the marked loop, though conditions vary.
• Current conditionThe area is described by the RTRA as unmanaged with ongoing maintenance issues. Check current status before visiting, as conditions can deteriorate.

Good to know

• Getting thereAccess via Gnangara Rd, Lexia — west of the Beechboro Road intersection, north of Perth. No formal sealed car park; bring a trailer suitable for sandy access tracks.
• Entry & registrationEntry to the area is free. Off-road vehicles must be registered with the WA Department of Transport (OHV registration), and riders must wear a helmet, boots, and appropriate protective clothing.
• Fire restrictionsThe area closes automatically on total fire ban days — check the DFES website before travelling on hot or high-risk days.
• No facilitiesThere are currently no facilities on site (no toilets, no water, no shade structures). Bring everything you need and pack out all rubbish.
• Verify before visitingTemporary closures have occurred in the past due to safety concerns. Confirm current access with the RTRA (rtra.asn.au/gnangara) or the DLGSC before your visit.

FAQ

Quick facts

• ExperienceOHV off-road riding area
• VehiclesMotorcycles · quad bikes
• Area350 ha · Gnangara State Forest
• Featured trailLexia Loop (8 km sand)
• CostFree
• LocationNorth of Perth, near Lexia WA
• Rating4.3 / 5 (25)

Contact Information

Location