Discover a trail where art and nature collide amid Western Australia’s ancient forests. The Understory Art & Nature Trail combines outdoor exploration with captivating artworks that inspire conservation and creativity.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness level recommended for walking the entire trail comfortably
Wildlife
History
The Southern Forests are part of one of Australia’s oldest ecosystems, dating back millions of years, and have long been home to Indigenous communities who harvested the land sustainably.
Conservation
The trail is maintained with minimal environmental impact, emphasizing preservation of the forest and native species through eco-friendly practices.
Southern Forest Arts
Discover a trail where art and nature collide amid Western Australia’s ancient forests. The Understory Art & Nature Trail combines outdoor exploration with captivating artworks that inspire conservation and creativity.
Southern Forest Arts operates the Understory Art and Nature Trail in Northcliffe, Western Australia. The organisation presents a 1.2 km self-guided trail through an ancient forest that displays more than 90 artworks sourced from artists around the world. The trail combines sculpture, music and storytelling to create an art-in-nature experience that highlights the ecology and beauty of the Southern Forests.
Southern Forest Arts offers both self-guided visits and a Guided Tour - Understory Art and Nature Trail. The guided tour leads visitors along the same 1.2 km route, with curated commentary that connects individual artworks to local natural history and conservation ideas. Both options aim to inspire appreciation for native ecosystems through creative interpretation and sensory experiences.
The program emphasises environmental conservation by using art and narrative to promote awareness of the region's forests and biodiversity. The Understory trail is set within an ancient forest near Northcliffe, providing direct engagement with mature forest habitats and native flora. Artworks are integrated into the landscape to invite contemplation and learning while preserving the integrity of the site.
Practical information is clear and local: the trail length is 1.2 km and features over 90 sculptures and installations. Visitors can choose a self-paced exploration or book a guided tour for added context and storytelling. Southern Forest Arts focuses on delivering accessible, educational and conservation-minded outdoor art experiences in Western Australia’s Southern Forests.
Booking and guided tour details are available from Southern Forest Arts for visitors planning to experience the Understory trail in Northcliffe, Western Australia.
Location
Northcliffe, WA
Situated in Western Australia's Southern Forests
Trail Length
1.2 km
Walk the full Understory route
Artworks
90+ sculptures
Installed along the forest trail
Tours Offered
Self-guided & Guided
Two ways to experience Understory
Select self-guided or a guided tour through Northcliffe's ancient forest — find trail details and booking information to plan the visit.
Wear comfortable footwear
Sturdy shoes are recommended as the trail includes uneven terrain and natural surfaces.
Bring a camera or sketchpad
Capture or document the artworks and scenery to enhance your experience.
Check weather forecast
Weather can change quickly; dress appropriately for sun, rain, or wind.
Arrive early in the day
Morning visits provide better lighting and fewer crowds for a peaceful experience.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking on natural trail surfaces.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated as you enjoy the outdoor experience.
Notebook or sketchpad
Capture artistic impressions or make notes along the trail.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protect yourself during outdoor activities under the sun.