Lake McKenzie Circuit Hike (23km)

The Kingfisher Bay Resort to Lake McKenzie circuit is a 23 kilometre, grade 3 walk through the western and central interior of Great Sandy National Park on K’gari. Most walkers allow seven to eight hours to complete the loop, though it also lends itself well to a relaxed overnight trip. The route links forested ridgelines, sandy fire trails and one of the island’s most iconic freshwater lakes, before returning via quieter coastal tracks back to the resort.

The walk begins at Kingfisher Bay Resort, where the track leaves from the right of the Village Store. Passing the fuel bowsers, follow the sealed road uphill before turning left onto the sandy track marked for the Beerillbee Trail, Lake McKenzie and the Dundonga Circuit. This opening climb is steep and soft underfoot, quickly lifting you out of the resort valley and into open forest. Once on the ridgeline, the sense of development fades and the walk settles into a steady rhythm through banksia and scribbly gum woodland.

Following the signs towards Lake McKenzie, the track descends to a junction marked by bollards. Turning right, the route follows a fire trail down towards Dundonga Creek, then climbs steadily to Cornwells Break Road. After crossing the road, the walking track continues through low forest to Sleeper Hill Fire Trail. The climb up Sleeper Hill is long but gentle, more of a sustained grind than a sharp ascent. On the southern side, the track crosses Lake Wabby Road before continuing towards Lake McKenzie Road and through the national park boom gate.

Lake McKenzie is a natural midpoint of the circuit and an ideal place to stop. The lake is perched above the surrounding landscape and filled entirely by rainwater, with clear blue shallows framed by fine white silica sand and blackbutt forest. It is a popular destination, so expect company, but it remains a striking and restful place to pause, eat, and cool off before continuing the loop.

From the lake, the circuit heads west and north, following sandy walking tracks and old fire trails that gradually lead away from the crowds. This section feels quieter and more remote, passing through low heath and woodland before eventually reconnecting with coastal tracks closer to the resort. The terrain here is generally flat to gently undulating, with long stretches of compacted sand that are easy enough underfoot but can feel tiring late in the day.

The final leg traces the western side of the peninsula, with occasional glimpses of the bay through the trees, before closing the loop back at Kingfisher Bay Resort. It is a satisfying circuit that showcases the contrast between K’gari’s busy focal points and its quieter interior, offering a full day of varied walking that feels earned without being overwhelming.