Eaton to the Cut, Kayak Trail

Overview

Starting from the boat ramp in Eaton, seven kilometres from the centre of Bunbury, this paddle trail follows the last of the Collie River out onto Leschenault Inlet. Pass from suburbia to coastal wilderness in half a dozen paddle stokes.

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About the Trail

Start at the tidal part of the Collie River at Eaton which is 161km (1 hour 40 minutes) south of Perth. The  boat ramp is on the south side of the old bridge. Follow the river out onto Lechenault Inlet. To the west (in front of you) you will see the Cut, a rock wall lined channel linking the inlet to the sea.

Paddle directly to the cut, around 1.5km, and land on a small beach inside the north side. There is a grassy camping area with BBQ's here, accessable only by boat. Kangaroos abound.

If camping overnight you will need to be self sufficient as there is no drinking water. There is no need to book and most likely you will have the place to yourself.

Paddle through the cut onto the ocean, surf waves at the entrance here are a common place to encounter dolphins.

Return to Eaton or if you can arrange a car to pick you up, you can land on the Bunbury side of the cut. Access to this point is along the road past the old power station.

In calm conditions continue this paddle all the way to Bunbury, or paddle it in reverse, departing from the Bunbury foreshore and simply follow the coastline around. Physical distance is less than 10 kilometres.

Need to Know

  • Time

    Allow at least a half day

  • Distance

    10km loop, but can also be paddled as a through trail, see text. Length is 5km (Loop).

  • Trail Start (Loop)

    Boat ramp at Eaton, on the Old Coast Road 161km (1 hour 40 minutes) south of Perth

  • Degree of Difficulty

    Easy - Suits majority of fitness and experience levels.

  • What to Pack?

    Group F (Paddling trails) required.

    • Plenty of water and food for duration of trip.
    • Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (30+)
    • Clothes to suit the activity and potential weather conditions
    • Lifejacket or flotation device
    • Leg or paddle leash if paddling in the ocean

  • Best Time of the Year

    September to April

  • Facilities

    If you do camp you will need to be completely self-sufficient - including drinking water.

    • Cafe
    • Camping

  • Hazards & Warnings

    Kangaroo ticks abound on the grass of the camping area.

  • Access to the Trail

    Road 2WD