wongulla walker flat loop trail

A loop trail starting at Wongulla boat ramp and passing through Wongulla lagoon and Manuka lagoon, then on to Walker Flat, returning to launch point. Alternatively this paddle can commence at Walker Flat and be completed in the opposite direction.

Murray River, Lakes and Coorong

Walker Flat (131 km from Adelaide)

16km return

5 hours (allow day)

Conditions

Moderate difficulty due to portages

Murray River, Lakes and Coorong

Walker Flat (131 km from Adelaide)
Paddle Distance

5 hours (allow day)
Weather

Always check weather and wind conditions before setting out.
Visit BOM for weather conditions
Conditions

Moderate (see caution) - River and river backwaters
Do the five weather safety checks
Facilities

Toilets are located at Wongulla Boat Ramp.
Parking

At campsite

Paddle SA is the governing body of paddle sport and recreation in South Australia. It leads and supports paddling in South Australia and encourages the safe exploration of our waterways. Paddling Trail South Australia has a range of Paddling Trails to suit different abilities. Know your ability.

Caution Information This trail can be undertaken in either direction beginning at Wongulla Foreshore Reserve or at Walker Flat.
This trail is rated as moderate difficulty due to portages along the way.

Trail 10

If you have a smartphone or tablet you can download the free Avenza PDF Map app and have interactive paddling trail maps on hand when you need them. The app uses your device’s built-in GPS to plot your real-time location within the park onto a map. The app can be used without a network connection and without roaming charges. You can also measure area and distance, plot photos, and drop Placemark pins.

Trail Information

Launch sites:
There are 2 alternative launches (and exit) points provided for this paddling trail, and it can be tackled from any of these, traveling in either a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction.

Wongulla foreshore reserve campsite. GPS: 34.7081 S; 139. 5724 E
Walker Flat GPS: 34.7546 S; 139.5688 E

Trail Points:
Access into the lagoon is at Point A about 3.5 k downstream from Wongulla. GPS 34.7289 S; 139.5458 E
There is a short portage into Manuka Lagoon at Point B GPS: 34.7444 S; 139.5435 E.
The return trip is via the river.
The trip can be extended by three kilometers by paddling into Lake Bywaters. The point of entry can be seen at Point C GPS: 34.7514 S; 139.5591 E
This trail can also be commenced at Walker Flat.

However, when planning your trip, bear in mind that this area can be busy with ferry activity and visitors during holiday periods. The launch facilities here are not as convenient for paddlers to access and use as they are at Wongulla.

Camping is allowed at Durden (but no facilities here)
Full facilities at Walker flat including shops and campgrounds

Avenza Interactive Trail map

Points of Interest

Wongulla
With its spectacular views as you wind down into the floodplains from the unsealed Swan Reach road, it’s a delight to drive to Wongulla. Descending into the floodplain from the south you’ll encounter a spectacular Maynards Lookout near Aruma. Enjoy the drive to Wongulla along the backwaters and floodplains surrounding the town all teeming with birdlife.
Wongulla boasts many river shacks and holiday homes along with a boat ramp and picnic spot with public toilets. (from http://www.murrayriver.com.au/wongulla/)

Walker Flat
Walker Flat has great, tall, ochre-coloured cliffs and a superb lookout.
Walker Flat is one of the most spectacular spots on the river. Facilities include a boat ramp, a free 24-hour ferry to cross the Murray, a general store, and various accommodations are also on offer.
Walker Flat is also a popular mooring spot for houseboats, whose passengers enjoy the iridescent sunsets over the dramatic cliffs…beautiful. (text from http://www.murrayriver.com.au/walker-flat)