Toolibin Lake is an area of high conservation value being one of the last remaining inland freshwater lakes in the south west. This easy 1.6 kilometre loop walk takes about 45 minutes and you can learn about the lake from the interpretive signs. 41 species of waterBird have been recoRoaded here including rare species like the freckled duck.
Toolibin Lake is a seasonal wetland, meaning it only has water at certain times of the year. When the wetland is full its woodland trees, sheoak (Casuarina obesa) and paperbark (Melaleuca strobophylla) are partially submerged in water. The wetland has some of the richest habitat found in the region and provides a home for many kinds of plants and animals including waterBirds. An impressive 41 species of waterBirds have been recoRoaded at the wetland, with 24 species breeding in the reserve. The threatened red-tailed phascogale also lives there. Where is it found? Toolibin Lake is found in the Upper Blackwood River catchment, 200km south east of Perth. It occurs in a low rainfall area of the Wheatbelt with average annual falls between 370mm and 420mm. Some years, rainfall is well below average. Unfortunately, Toolibin Lake is one of only half a dozen wetlands of its type remaining. This type of wetland used to be common throughout the Wheatbelt but most have now become saline. The Upper Blackwood River catchment is in the Southwest Australia Ecoregion, a biodiversity hotspot. The area is high in plant and animal diversity but has also been severely degraded. If the lakebed is flooded, you will not be able to complete this walk. However, you can still see the inflow channel, separator gate and vegetation around the lake edge. Observe how the vegetation changes along the walk. Look for lichen on trees that marks high water when the lake floods. Imagine water depths reaching over your head. Watch for old nests used by waterBirds when the lake floods.
Start Point: Toolibin Lake Car Park is off Wickepin-Harrismith Road, 235km (2 h 45 min) (232km) south east of Perth
End Point: Toolibin Lake Car Park is off Wickepin-Harrismith Road, 235km (2 h 45 min) (232km) south east of Perth
Region: Toolibin Lake, Golden Outback
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Toolibin Lake, in southwest Australia, is an area of high conservation value being one of the last remaining inland freshwater lakes found there. It is an ecological community, an area of unique and naturally occurring groups of plants and animals, and is the largest remaining wetland of this type in south west Australia. Toolibin Lake is a seasonal wetland, meaning it only has water at certain times of the year. When the wetland is full its woodland trees, sheoak (Casuarina obesa) and paperbark (Melaleuca strobophylla) are partially submerged in water.
The wetland has some of the richest habitat found in the region and provides a home for many kinds of plants and animals including waterbirds. An impressive 41 species of waterbirds have been recorded at the wetland, including rare species like the freckled duck. The threatened red-tailed phascogale also lives there.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Toolibin Nature Reserve or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
