Thirlmere Lakes walking track is a 6km, grade 5 hike located in Thirlmere Lakes National Park, New South Wales. The hike should take around 3.5 hours to complete.
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.
Route and GPX file
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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.
Trail location
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Getting there
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.
Gallery
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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.
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Explore Safe
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.
Let someone know
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Gear to consider
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
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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.