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Mountain Duck Trail, Peel-Harvey Estuary Paddle Network Mountain Duck Trail, Peel-Harvey Estuary Paddle Network

Paddle  in Perth & Surrounds

Part of Peel-Harvey Estuary Paddle Trail Network network
  • Half day
  • 23 km

The 23km return Mountain Duck Trail travels along the Serpentine River through Goegrup Lakes and several other pools. The trail is home to the Mountain Duck, paperbarks, sheoaks and river gums.

If you want to experience 'paddling karma' then the top end of this trail is for you, with its expansive pools linked by short, scenic river sections which become racy in the wet seasons.

Kayakers Mountain Duck Trail Chelle Fisher
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The Mountain Duck Trail travels along the Serpentine River North of Riverside Gardens through Goegrup Lake and several other pools. A recently built all abilities launch facility at Riverside Gardens, makes this trail accessible to all. The shallowness of the pools means there are rarely any power boats; there will be just you, the birds, the bush, the sky and the sound of your paddle.

Paperbarks, sheoaks and river gums are to be found here, and there are extensive reed beds throughout the pools. The river level can rise considerably, and navigation may be difficult when pools are flooded and the water spreads onto adjacent land.

The beautiful Mountain Duck (Tadorna tadornoides) lives mainly on large waterways and not on mountains, as its name implies. This trail with its wide pools suits the Mountain Duck, and it honks to show it is happy. There is plenty of food for Mountain Ducks in this location, with weed, algae and numerous insects and their larvae. The Mountain Duck has a black bill, a glossy, greenish-black head and neck and a white collar around the base of its neck. The female is white around the eyes and bill, and both sexes have dark-brown eyes. The breast is cinnamon brown, the belly is dark brown and the wings are multi-coloured. The plumage also has showy patches of white, rich chestnut and olive green. The legs and feet are dark grey.

Mandurah Parks and Wildlife Office

(08) 9303 7750

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 Mountain Duck Trail, Peel-Harvey Estuary Paddle Network

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

Time / Duration

5-6 hours

Length

23km return

What To Pack

Group F - Paddling Trails (Paddling trails) required.

Trail Start

Riverside Gardens Boat Ramp, Wanda Rd, Greenfields.

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Trail End

Serpentine River

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Hazards & Warnings

All lakes and waterways upstream from Riverside Gardens are very shallow and suitable for paddling only in winter and spring after good rains.


May contain algae during warmer months.


Allow extra paddling time for navigation which can prove difficult in some areas.


Obstructions may occur in some sections of the river.


Some rest/ comfort sites may be difficult to access depening on river levels.

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

  • BBQ Facilities
  • Car Park
  • Dog Friendly
  • All accessible parking
  • Picnic Area
  • Public Toilet
  • Sheltered Area
  • All accessible toilet facilities
  • Water Access Points
  • Accessible picnic facilities
  • Accessible BBQ facilities

Best time of year

Anytime of year.

Trail Access

Riverside Gardens, Greenfields

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