Kapagup Nornalup Paddle Trail Network

The Walpole and Nornalup inlets are a permanently open estuarine system that experiences marine-like conditions for most of the year. The open inlet mouth, the mixing of fresh river and salty ocean waters and healthy riparian vegetation result in diverse marine habitats and a high diversity of marine flora and fauna.

You can launch your kayak at a number of sites around the marine park such as Walpole Town Jetty, Rest Point or Nornalup. From each launch site, you can choose where to paddle depending on your ability and time frame. You can paddle up the Deep, Frankland or Walpole rivers or explore the Walpole or Nornalup inlets. You can paddle over to Sealers Cove and then walk to Circus Beach and the wild Southern Ocean. It's completely up to you!

The trailhead signage at each launch point will give you several suggested destinations. Paddles range from 3 km to 12 km one way. Check the weather conditions before you go and choose a destination that is suitable for your paddling experience. 

Offering protection from the wind, the lower Walpole, Deep and Frankland rivers are generally classified as easy with slow to fast moving water and few obstacles. Although the Frankland and Walpole rivers flow all year round, about eighty percent of the discharge occurs during winter and spring, which can result in seasonal currents requiring advance paddling skills.

The Nornalup Inlet is exposed to wind, waves and tidal currents and is appropriate for medium to advanced paddlers. Weather conditions can change quickly and paddlers need to ensure that their skills are sufficient to manage the entire trip (self-rescue and navigation skills required).