Matilda Bay

The run along Matilda Bay is another great option for a centrally located waterside run. This option is along a quieter section of the Swan River, from Elizabeth Quay to the University of Western Australia in the suburb of Crawley, west of the city. This route doesn’t attract the crowds of the Bridge-to-Bridge run. It is a combination of dedicated path and roadside multi-use path, mainly paralleling Highway 5, skirting the eastern edge of Kings Park. There are great water views most of the way, but also plenty of shade, grassy lawns, and opportunities to  gaze at the sailboats on the river. The southern section near the Royal Perth Yacht Club is especially pretty. The total distance is 10.8 km out and back.

Add-On: The campus of the University of Western Australia at the southern end of the route is a nice detour, featuring pretty paths and attractive older buildings.