Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the stunning Lake Mournpall on this 9.8km circuit hike, ideal for moderate level walkers. Starting and ending at the Lake Mournpall camping area, you'll traverse River Red Gum flood plains and Mallee dunes, witnessing the dramatic changes in vegetation. Be ready to spot kangaroos, emus and a variety of birds including wedge-tailed eagles. A perfect trail for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers, with fishing opportunities for Murray Cod and Golden Perch.

Length:

9.8km

Duration:

3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 65m

Min elevation: 44m

Total Ascent: 189m

Start: Lake Mournpall Campground

End: Lake Mournpall Campground

Hattah-Kulkyne National Park

Victoria

Nearby town: Ouyen

From state capital: 492km

Latitude: -34.70469078059918

Longitude: 142.33577728271487

Overview

Map

Gallery

Weather

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Region

3,659 views

Hike overview

Starting at the Lake Mournpall camping area, this loop walk follows the northern edge of Lake Mournpall before circling north around Lake Konardin passing through River Red Gum flood plains and Mallee dunes. The walk showcases the dramatic changes in vegetation, as you get closer and further away from water. Keep an eye also for the abundant wildlife. Kangaroos and emus can frequently be spotted, as well as a variety of birds, including wedge-tailed eagles, whitebellied sea eagles and whistling kites.

Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for emus and three kinds of kangaroo (Red, Eastern Grey and Western Grey) especially at dawn and dusk. The park has a rich variety of birdlife ranging from wetland species such as pelicans, ducks and spoonbills to dry mallee specialists such as Mallee fowl and emu wrens. Fishing for Murray Cod and Golden Perch (Yellowbelly) provide good sport for anglers.

Camping

There are two designated campgrounds in the park with basic facilities, including non-flush toilets, fireplaces and picnic tables. They are at Lake Hattah and further north at Lake Mournpall. Advance bookings and payment are required for these sights via the Parks Victoria website. Other river camping areas without facilities are available at Ki Bend, Firemans Bend and Jinkers Bend, all along the Murray at the eastern edge of the park. No booking or fees are required, although these areas are best accessed with a 4WD.

Lake Mournpall Camping Area offers 16 unpowered campsites, suitable for tents, camper trailers, campervans and caravans. Campground facilities include non-flush toilets, fireplaces and picnic tables. Individual campsites cannot be reserved, please select your campsite(s) within the campground on arrival. Advanced bookings and payment are required year-round. Each campsite holds a maximum of six people. Please book multiple sites for bookings of more than six people.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file
Mournpall Lake Loop Hike (9.8km)

Total distance: 9746 m
Max elevation: 65 m
Min elevation: 44 m
Total climbing: 189 m
Total descent: -189 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Hattah-Kulkyne National Park.

Hattah-Kulkyne National Park is half way between Ouyen and Mildura, off the Calder Highway. It’s a hefty 5.5 hours’ drive from Melbourne, but only 45 minutes due south of Mildura. Most visitors enter via the Hattah Entrance Road and head directly for the Lake Hattah Campground. The park extends north and east, covering 48,000 hectares, before hitting the Murray River off Hattah–Robinvale Road not far from the small village of Liparoo. Many of the park’s best spots are accessible in a 2WD car, but some tracks are 4WD only. Be especially careful if there’s been recent rain.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Hattah, Irymple, Kulkyne, Merbein, Mildura, Nangiloc, Ouyen, Red Cliffs

About the region

Hattah-Kulkyne National Park lies in typical mallee country with extensive low scrub and open native pine woodland. Superbly adapted birds, animals and vegetation thrive in the poor, sandy soils and searing summers. The freshwater Hattah Lakes is seasonally filled by creeks connected to the Murray, providing food and shelter for waterbirds and fish. These lakes can remain full for up to ten years without flooding, but flooding generally occurs once every two years. Camping, walking, bike riding and canoeing are popular here and in the adjoining Murray-Kulkyne Park.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Hattah-Kulkyne 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

Reviews
Mournpall Lake Loop Hike (9.8km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

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