The road follows the former alignment of the Upper Darling Range Railway, which operated until 1949.
The conversion from a railway line to a scenic road was completed in the 1970s to preserve the historic route for public use.
The drive features a consistent, steep descent that requires the use of low gears for vehicles.
The surrounding vegetation consists primarily of Jarrah and Marri forest, typical of the Darling Scarp ecosystem.
Zig Zag Scenic Drive is a steep, winding road located on the Darling Scarp that offers panoramic views over the Perth coastal plain. Originally built as a railway line in the 1890s to transport timber down the escarpment, the route was later converted for vehicular use. The drive descends through the Gooseberry Hill National Park, navigating sharp hairpin bends that challenge drivers. It is a one-way road that requires careful navigation due to its narrow width and steep gradient. The area is situated within the Perth Hills, providing a dramatic change in elevation from the Darling Range to the metropolitan lowlands below. It is a popular vantage point for viewing the city skyline and the Indian Ocean coastline.
The lookout points positioned along the descent that face toward the Perth metropolitan area.
Engage a low gear before beginning the descent to manage vehicle speed safely.
Pull over only at designated spots to avoid obstructing the narrow, winding roadway.
Drive slowly as the road is narrow and visibility around hairpin corners is limited.
Do not attempt the drive in a large campervan or towing a caravan due to the tight hairpin turns.
The road is occasionally closed to vehicles during periods of high fire danger or extreme weather events.
Stay on the designated road surface to protect native vegetation and avoid entering closed tracks.
