Bells Rapids

Bells Rapids is a natural river park on the Swan River in Brigadoon, within the City of Swan, Western Australia, about 45 km northeast of Perth. It is known for seasonal rapids where the Swan River narrows over granite outcrops, creating white water in winter and spring. The reserve features walking trails, lookouts, picnic areas and the Bells Rapids Bridge, and is a key viewing point for the annual Avon Descent white-water event.

Visitors can expect a natural bushland reserve centred on the Swan River rapids with granite rocks, river pools and seasonal white water. The park offers marked walking trails including the River Walk and Goat Track, a pedestrian bridge over the river, elevated lookouts, and grassed picnic areas. Surroundings are open eucalypt woodland with wildflowers in spring. Facilities are basic and the experience is focused on nature, walking, photography and river viewing.

Named after Captain John Bell, an early settler in the Swan River Colony. The area served as a river crossing point and later became a recreation reserve. The Bells Rapids Bridge, first constructed in the early 20th century and subsequently rebuilt, provided important access across the Swan River for the Upper Swan and Brigadoon district.

Located on Whadjuk Noongar Country along the Swan River (Derbarl Yerrigan), which holds cultural significance for Noongar people. The river and surrounding bushland are valued for natural heritage and as part of the Swan Valley landscape.