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Optimal canoeing conditions are towards the end of winter and into early summer when water levels are at their highest.

Depth Gauges:    Depth gauges are in place on the trail.  Please adhere to the instructions attached to the gauges.  Do not proceed past the gauges if the low water indicator is visible.

Esperance Lakes Canoe Trail Esperance Lakes Canoe Trail

  • 1-3 hours
  • 5.5 km

A great way to appreciate the peace, beauty and birdlife of the Esperance Lakes system.  A self-guided canoe trail winds from Woody Lake through a tranquil channel and out into Lake Wheatfield.

Esperance Lakes Canoe Trail1 Tourismwa
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Esperance Lakes are part of the wetland network that supports a variety of wildlife on the south coast.  The Lakes are a wonderful place to explore on your paddle craft  and take in the picturesque surroundings.  Beaches, sandbars and samphire flats.  Lush sedgelands and gnarled paperbark trees.  Open water and narrow winding channels. 

Birdlife is prolific on the lakes and paddlers will be able to see egrets, pelicans, swans and a variety of ducks and summer visitors such as sanderlings and green-shanks.

Lake Wheatfield to Windabout Lake is 5.5km one way.
Lake Wheatfield to Woody Lake is 2.5km one way.
Woody Lake to Windabout Lake is 3km one way.

Esperance Visitor Centre

(08) 9038 1555

Other Links

  • Australia’s Golden Outback

    Comprehensive information on the Golden Outback region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.


Be trail ready for Esperance Lakes Canoe Trail

Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.

Time / Duration

Time will depend on the route taken.

Length

The longest return distance is 11km

What To Pack

Group F - Paddling Trails (Paddling trails) required.

Trail Start

Windabout Lake boat ramp, off Windabout Way is 13mins from Esperance which is 720km (7.5 hours) south east of Perth

Get directions

Trail End

Facilities

Canoes can be launched at the Woody Lake boat ramp or at the Lake Wheatfield car park.
Reflective trail markers are placed at intervals of 200m or less to help you navigate your way. Follow the markers and stay on the trail at all times.
  • Car Park
  • Water Access Points

Best time of year

July to early December when water levels are at their highest.

Trail Access

Road 2WD

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1 trail goers have rated Esperance Lakes Canoe Trail as 2 out of 5!

We love to hear from people who've been on our Western Australian trails, so it would be most appreciated it if you wanted to leave a review.

Twiddle sticks

Reviewed 11 Apr 2019, 9:31am

This is a reasonably nice local trail to do. Fairly protected from the coastal winds. Not recommended on a hot day, should be fine all other times. The walking is pretty easy with only a few small hills. Well marked trail. No facilities - no water, no loo.

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