Glen Forrest between timber and railway history

Glen Forrest brings together a long history of the timber industry, traces of the railway and a distinctive historic building. Glen Forrest Hall is octagonal and dates from 1897. Together with the former railway grounds and the Heritage Walk, this gives the town several points of interest: you might be interested in architectural history, local history or outdoor activities.

Glen Forrest has a long connection with the timber industry. In the wider Mundaring District, permanent settlement began in the late 1870s, when Alfred Smith established a steam-powered sawmill there. The town’s history therefore also offers insight into the broader historical context of the travel region.

Hall architecture and railway history

Glen Forrest Hall is listed on the State Register of Heritage Places. It was built in 1897 as Forrest Hall; Henry Eltze-Vicot developed the octagonal design with the aim of providing an uninterrupted view in every direction. Volunteers from the community built the Hall’s stone boundary wall in 1935. It is now heritage-listed.

Glen Forrest Stationmaster's House is one of the few surviving buildings closely connected with the region’s railway history. It is located in the Glen Forrest Historic Precinct beside the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail. Morgan John Morgan Reserve is also linked to the railway: it is on the site of the former platform and railway facilities of Smiths Mill station.

On foot, by bike and with time for a break

The Glen Forrest Heritage Walk passes through the village of Smiths Mill, now Glen Forrest. The Railway Reserves Heritage Trail also passes through the town and is suitable for walking and cycling. This gives you a choice of different ways to enjoy an active day: take a walk through the village or explore the trail on foot or by bike. Check current map details for the Heritage Walk and conditions on the trail before setting out.

Morgan John Morgan Park, also known locally as Train Park, is a good spot for a picnic. A tourism description dated 10 August 2025 says that children can play there while adults relax under the trees. The same description reported that Gourmet in the Park markets were held in the park twice a year. Check current event dates before travelling.

If you’d like to explore the trail by bike, Hillside Cycles is another practical option: a tourism webpage dated 10 August 2025 listed the business right beside the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail and mentioned mountain bike rentals. Check in advance whether rentals are available for your travel dates.

Plan your stay around your interests

When looking for a holiday rental in Glen Forrest, you can first decide what you’d like your stay to focus on: architectural and railway history, getting around on foot or by bike, or taking a picnic break in the park. If needed, check current map details, trail conditions and mountain bike rental availability in advance.

Discover more destinations: Harvey, Carbunup River, Pickering Brook, Kendenup, Meekatharra, Nannup, Chittering, Yanchep.

For the broader travel overview: Western Australia.