Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the beauty of Murramarang National Park on the Durras Lake Discovery Trail, a 1.7km moderate Grade 3 circuit hike. This family-friendly trail takes you through majestic spotted gum trees, rare rainforests, and offers wildlife spotting opportunities. Complete with informative displays, a lookout tower, stepping stones, and a log walk, this hike, located on the NSW South Coast, is a perfect 45-minute adventure. Don't forget to extend your journey with the adjoining Lake Walk or enjoy a serene picnic under the spotted gums.

Length:

1.7km

Duration:

45 mins

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 49m

Min elevation: 27m

Total Ascent: 39m

Start: Lake Road Carpark

End: Lake Road Carpark

Murramarang National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Durras North

From state capital: 281km

Latitude: -35.63331550951075

Longitude: 150.29124933913334

Overview

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Hike overview

Nestled within Murramarang National Park on the NSW South Coast, the Durras Lake Discovery Trail offers a delightful 1.7-kilometer loop hike suitable for families with children. This easy grade 3 trail, taking roughly 45 minutes to complete, winds through a scenic environment boasting majestic spotted gum trees and pockets of rare, protected rainforest. Informative displays along the path detail the history of the forest and past logging practices, highlighting the importance of conservation.

The trail caters to youngsters with playful stepping stones, a lookout tower for panoramic views, and a log walk to test their balance. Keep your eyes peeled for vibrant birdlife like crimson rosellas and New Holland honeyeaters, or spot the park's resident kangaroos and red-necked wallabies.

For a longer exploration, connect with the adjoining Lake Walk for further Durras Lake views. Alternatively, find a shady spot under the spotted gums and enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst the beauty of the national park.

Tips

Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch
Check the weather before you set out as the road to Durras Lake Discovery trail can become boggy when it rains.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Durras Lake Discovery Trail Walk (1.7km)

Total distance: 1732 m
Max elevation: 49 m
Min elevation: 27 m
Total climbing: 39 m
Total descent: -40 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Murramarang National Park.

Accessible by car, the Durras Lake Discovery Trail lies within the central precinct of Murramarang National Park on the NSW South Coast. Travelers can reach the trailhead by turning off the Princes Highway at East Lynne and following Mount Agony Road for roughly 5 kilometers. Take a right onto North Durras Road and continue until reaching Lake Road. Look for signs directing you to the carpark at Lake Road entry point. Parking is conveniently available here, allowing you to easily commence your exploration of the trail.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Batemans Bay, Bawley Point, Kioloa, Maloneys Beach, Malua Bay, Milton, Moruya, Narooma, Nelligen, North Durras, Tomakin, Ulladulla

About the region

Murramarang National Park, a nature lover's paradise, stretches along 44 kilometers of dramatic coastline on the NSW south coast, near Batemans Bay. Here, visitors can camp under the shade of spotted gum trees that grow right down to the oceanfront, creating a stunning backdrop for a year-round escape. The park offers a variety of activities. Hike or bike along the trails, explore the cliffs and headlands, or relax on pristine beaches. Take a dip in the ocean, go surfing, or cast a fishing line for your dinner. Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos and the abundant birdlife that call the park home.

The park is particularly famous for the multi-day Murramarang South Coast Walk, a spectacular 3-day adventure for experienced hikers. But there are options for all fitness levels. Explore the Durras Lake discovery trail, perfect for a family outing with children, or rent a canoe to paddle around the calm waters of Durras Lake. Whether you're looking for a day trip or a longer stay, Murramarang National Park has something for everyone. Choose from a variety of camping options, including caravan and motorhome sites with amenities, or book a cabin for a more comfortable stay.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Murramarang National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

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Durras Lake Discovery Trail Walk (1.7km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Durras lake discovery trail walk (1. 7km)

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Durras Lake Discovery Trail Walk (1.7km)