⚠️ Portages required. Rated Moderate due to a short portage at Point B (Manuka Lagoon entry). Allow a full day. Wongulla launch is more convenient than Walker Flat.
📌 GPS Waypoints
Launch 1
Wongulla Foreshore Reserve
34.7081 S 139.5724 E
Launch 2
Walker Flat Boat Ramp
34.7546 S 139.5688 E
Point A
Wongulla Lagoon Entry
34.7289 S 139.5458 E
Point B — Portage
Manuka Lagoon Portage
34.7444 S 139.5435 E
Point C — Optional
Lake Bywaters Entry (+~3 km)
34.7514 S 139.5591 E
🛥 Route Summary
- Launch → Point A: From Wongulla, paddle downstream ~3.5 km to the Wongulla Lagoon entry (Point A).
- Point A → Point B: Through Wongulla Lagoon to Point B — short portage required into Manuka Lagoon. Continue through lagoon backwaters to Walker Flat.
- Walker Flat: Good lunch stop. Boat ramp, general store, free 24-hr ferry, accommodation. Spectacular ochre cliffs.
- Point C (optional): Paddle into Lake Bywaters for ~3 km extra before returning.
- Return: Upstream along the Murray River from Walker Flat back to Wongulla.
⚠️ Key Cautions
- Portage at Point B: Short portage required at Manuka Lagoon. Allow extra time.
- Ferry traffic at Walker Flat: Busy with ferry and visitor traffic during holiday periods.
- Weather: Check BOM Walker Flat before setting out. Very hot in summer — carry ample water and start early.
- Direction: Trail can be done clockwise or anti-clockwise from either launch.