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Great Egret Trail, Peel-Harvey Estuary Paddle Network Great Egret Trail, Peel-Harvey Estuary Paddle Network

  • 1-3 hours
  • 14.5 km

The 14.5km Great Egret Trail begins at the southern end of the Harvey Estuary and travels along the Harvey River to Lake Clifton Road. On this trail the river winds its way via bushland and rural properties. 

This is a very peaceful area, with wooded shorelines, estuary islands and beaches, abundant bird life and a feeling of 'getting away from it all'.

Island Point Great Egret Trail Visit Mandurah
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The Great Egret Trail travels along the Harvey River to Lake Clifton Road. The Harvey River headwaters are about 10km north of historic Hoffmans Mill in the Stirling Dam catchment area. Within its catchment there are five dams and a weir. From them run river diversions and drainage systems which supply water to the area's famous dairy and beef cattle and vegetable and citrus industries.

On this trail the river winds its way via bushland and rural properties. The Great Egret Trail begins at the southern end of the Harvey Estuary, either from Island Point on the western shore or Herron Point on the eastern shore. This is a very peaceful area, with wooded shorelines, estuary islands and beaches, abundant bird life and a feeling of 'getting away from it all'. If the water levels in this area are too low for paddling, an alternative is the beach at Park Ridge Reserve, Estuary Road, Park Ridge, on the western foreshore of the Harvey Estuary, approximately 10km back towards Mandurah.

The Great Egret (Ardea alba), the largest of the Australian egrets, is unmistakable. Standing 830mm tall, it has white plumage and, when not breeding, a yellow bill. During the breeding season (October to December) the bill turns mostly black. At this time, long hair-like feathers (nuptial plumes) on the back extend beyond the tail. It can be observed standing on its long, thin legs on the edges of waterways, quietly waiting for prey.

Mandurah Visitor Centre

(08) 9550 3999

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Down Under Discoveries

Welcome to Down Under Discoveries, where nature meets adventure, and every step is a journey of connection and discovery. Immerse yourself in the heart of WA with Chelle and her team Down Under.

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Be trail ready for Great Egret Trail, Peel-Harvey Estuary Paddle Network

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

Time / Duration

3-4 hours

Length

14.5km one way

What To Pack

Group F - Paddling Trails (Paddling trails) required.

Trail Start

Island Point Reserve, Herron

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Trail End

Lake Clifton Rd Bridge, Lake Clifton

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Safety

Paddlers should familiarise themselves with Boating Rules and Regulations contained in the official Western Australia Boating Guide.

Paddlers should keep to the right in boating channels and canals.

Use insect repellant and/or cover up to protect against mosquitos.

Facilities

  • Car Park
  • Picnic Area
  • Public Toilet
  • Shaded Area
  • Sheltered Area
  • Water Access Points

Best time of year

Anytime of year

Trail Access

Island Point Reserve, Island Point Road, Mandurah

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