For a beautiful lakeside walk that combines impressive scenic views and superb birdwatching, head for Yanga Lake walking track. This short track traces part of the eastern shoreline to link some of the most scenic features of Yanga National Park, part of Murrumbidgee Valley National Park. Near Yanga Homestead, it's an ideal introduction to the tranquil beauty of the wetlands for families, school groups and nature lovers.
The steep and rough track descends from Yanga Lake viewing deck through majestic river red gums and river coobas to the very shores of the immense lake. Enjoy a leisurely picnic as you soak in the natural beauty and serenity.
Spring and Autumn are excellent times to visit as bird activity is at its peak. However, there's birdlife all year round including pelicans, cormorants and white-bellied sea eagles. For a more immersive birdwatching experience stop by Yanga Lake Red Gum bird hide.
Check the weather before you set out as the road to Yanga walking track can become boggy when it rains
There is limited 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.
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Getting there
Yanga Lake walking track is in the Homestead precinct of Yanga National Park. To get there:From Balranald, travel east along Sturt Highway for 7km.Turn right into Yanga picnic area just over Yanga CreekTurn left at the Yanga National Park sign and drive 2km along unsealed road to Yanga Homestead, where the track begins. Parking Parking is available at Yanga Homestead.
Photo gallery
If you’ve got some great shots from this hike, I’d love to see them! Please upload your .jpg files here to help inspire other hikers and show off the beauty of the trail.
A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
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.
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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.
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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.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe