Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the fantastic birdwatching trail of Thirlmere Lakes, a serene 6km circuit in Australia offering an enjoyable Grade 5 (Difficult) hike. Starting from Couridjah picnic area, this unmarked yet well-defined track encircles three lakes, Gandangarra, Werri-Berri and Couridjah, providing ample opportunity to spot 140+ species of birds. Best enjoyed in spring and autumn, the trail features ground orchids, woodland vegetation, and aquatic plants, adding to its scenic charm.

Length:

6km

Duration:

3.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 0m

Min elevation: 0m

Total Ascent: 0m

Start: Dry Lakes Rd

End: Dry Lakes Rd

Thirlmere Lakes National Park

New South Wales

Nearby town: Thirlmere

From state capital: 98.1km

Latitude: -34.21376543

Longitude: 150.548676

Overview

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Weather

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Hike overview

A fantastic birdwatching walk, Thirlmere Lakes walking track is unmarked but well-defined. Setting out from Couridjah picnic area, the flat, enjoyable 6km loop joins Dry Lakes Road and passes Werri Berri picnic area and Heritage Pump Station as you return along Slades Road. Even though there's no directional signage, you'll have no trouble finding your way.
Encircling three of the lakes - Gandangarra, Werri-Berri and Couridjah - here you'll see many of the 140+ species of waders, waterfoul and woodland birds that visit the area. Among them are white-faced herons, musk ducks, pacific black ducks, pied cormorants, Australasian grebes, and white-bellied sea eagles.
The mild weather of spring and autumn is the best time to enjoy this pretty walk and admire the lovely ground orchids, wetland and woodland vegetation, as well as aquatic plants.

Tips

Remember to take your binoculars if you want to birdwatch.
There is limited/no mobile reception in this park.

Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.

The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.

Gallery

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Walk map and GPX file

Thirlmere Lakes Walking Track (6km)

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Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Buxton, Camden, Picton, Tahmoor, Thirlmere

Getting to the trailhead in Thirlmere Lakes National Park.

Thirlmere Lakes walking track starts at Couridjah picnic area in the southern precinct of Thirlmere Lakes National Park. To get there:If travelling north from Buxton on West Parade, turn left into Slades Road or Pumphouse Road.If travelling south from Picton, turn right onto Slades Road and continue to the picnic area, which will be on the left. Parking Parking is available at Couridjah picnic area.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Thirlmere Lakes National Park is part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, and makes a great day trip from Sydney. Birdwatchers should keep an eye out for some of the 140 birds that inhabit the park, including the white-faced heron, musk duck, and white-bellied sea eagle. Many native Australian plants can also be found here. The mild weather of spring is a great time to admire the colourful ground orchids.

Thirlmere Lakes National Park is named for its 5 freshwater lakes, which are thought to be around 15 million years old. There's no swimming or canoeing in the lakes due to low water levels.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Thirlmere Lakes National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Track grade

Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.

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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Thirlmere Lakes Walking Track (6km)

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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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Thirlmere Lakes Walking Track (6km)