Koondrook - Gunbower Island Canoe Trail

The Gunbower Island Canoe Trail is a 5km return paddling trail through the internationally significant wetlands of Gunbower State Forest. The peaceful route explores Gunbower Creek and Safe’s Lagoon among river red gums, wetland vegetation and abundant birdlife.

Distance: Approximately 5km return
Time: Approximately 2 hours
Start/Finish: Canoe Site, Koondrook Track
Route: Yellow numbered floating buoys mark the trail

Follow the numbered yellow buoys through the wetlands. The guided section finishes at buoy 8, where paddlers can spend some time exploring the surrounding reeds and wetlands before returning along the same route.

Along the trail look for waterbirds and other wildlife among the standing trees, river red gums, rushes and aquatic vegetation. Native fish found in these waters include Murray Cod and Golden, Silver and Macquarie Perch. Tree hollows provide habitat for parrots, rosellas, swallows, ducks, cockatoos, bats, owls and small climbing mammals.

An all-abilities canoe launcher is provided at Canoe Site to make entering and leaving the water easier. The access surface leading to the launcher is natural and can become soft or bumpy depending on conditions. There is no formal car parking area at the launcher.

There are no toilets at Canoe Site. The nearest accessible public toilets are approximately a 10-minute drive away in Koondrook.

Things to Know:

Wildlife is generally more active around sunrise and sunset.
Creek levels may be too low for paddling between May and August.
Access to the starting point can be limited during wet weather and floods.
Duck hunting may occur in the area between March and June.
Take drinking water, sun protection and suitable footwear.
Wear an appropriate personal flotation device when paddling.

Access for Dogs:

Dogs are permitted in this section of Gunbower State Forest. Dogs should be kept on a leash or under immediate control, and owners must clean up after them.