Mallacoota - The Narrows Walk
The Narrows Walk is a beautiful shoreline bushwalk near Mallacoota, following the peaceful waterway connecting the Top Lake and Bottom Lake within Croajingolong National Park.
The track winds through attractive coastal forest beside Mallacoota Inlet, providing picturesque views of the water, surrounding bushland and abundant birdlife.
Starting near Buckland's Jetty, the walk follows the shoreline of The Narrows, one of the most scenic sections of the extensive Mallacoota lake system.
Walk Details:
- Distance: Approximately 3km one way along The Narrows, with the option to continue to Captain Creek Jetty. Local tourism information lists the full extension as approximately 5km one way, although regional guides give a shorter distance.
- Time: Approximately 1.5 hours for the shorter one-way walk. Allow additional time for the longer extension and return journey.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with some rocky and uneven sections.
- Start: Buckland's Jetty, near the end of Lakeside Drive.
- Track Type: Shoreline bushwalking track. Return along the same route unless alternative transport has been arranged.
- Highlights: Mallacoota Inlet, coastal forest, water views, birdlife and historic boatshed.
- Facilities: Limited facilities along the route. Carry drinking water and supplies.
Walk Description:
The walk begins just beyond Buckland's Jetty, following a walking track into Croajingolong National Park.
The track winds beside The Narrows, a scenic waterway connecting the Top and Bottom Lakes of Mallacoota Inlet.
Much of the walk passes through attractive coastal bushland, with intermittent views across the water towards the surrounding hills and forest.
The shoreline environment is home to many bird species, making this a particularly interesting walk for birdwatchers.
Look out for small birds moving through the vegetation and waterbirds along the shoreline. Azure Kingfishers, Eastern Yellow Robins and Superb Lyrebirds are among the species recorded in the wider area.
Some sections of the track are rocky or uneven, so suitable walking shoes are recommended.
Along the route is a restored historic boatshed that was originally used for boat repairs. The area provides an interesting place to stop and enjoy the peaceful lakeside scenery.
The Narrows section can be explored as a shorter out-and-back walk, with visitors turning around whenever they wish.
Captain Creek Jetty Extension:
Walkers wanting a longer adventure can continue beyond The Narrows towards Captain Creek Jetty.
This extension follows the shoreline through additional forest and lakeside scenery.
Captain Creek Jetty is a popular destination for walkers and people exploring Mallacoota Inlet by boat.
Walking tracks continue from the Captain Creek area towards Genoa Road and other sections of Croajingolong National Park.
Visitors completing the longer walk should remember that they must return along the same route unless alternative transport has been arranged.
Published distances for the route vary between tourism sources, so allow extra time rather than relying on a precise return distance.
Getting There:
From Mallacoota, follow Lakeside Drive towards Karbeethong.
Continue past Karbeethong Jetty towards Buckland's Jetty.
A small parking area near Buckland's Jetty provides access to the beginning of The Narrows walking track.
Look for the walking track continuing beyond the jetty into Croajingolong National Park.
Important Information:
- The track is suitable for walkers with reasonable fitness, although some sections are rocky and uneven.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes and carry drinking water.
- Allow sufficient time for the return journey.
- There are limited facilities along the track.
- Mobile phone reception may be unreliable in parts of the national park.
- Keep an eye out for native birds and other wildlife.
- Dogs and other pets are not permitted in Croajingolong National Park.
- The walking track is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs.
- Check weather conditions and park closures before visiting.
Opening Hours:
The track is generally accessible throughout the year, subject to park conditions and temporary closures. See current Parks Victoria information and warnings.
Cost:
Free.
Review:
The Narrows Walk is a lovely option for families wanting to experience the quieter and more natural side of Mallacoota.
Rather than following an exposed coastal beach, this walk explores the peaceful shoreline of Mallacoota Inlet, with beautiful water views, attractive forest and plenty of opportunities to spot birds.
The changing scenery along the waterway makes the walk interesting, while the restored boatshed adds a small historical attraction.
One of the best features is the flexibility to turn around whenever you wish, allowing families to enjoy a shorter walk without committing to the entire route.
The longer extension to Captain Creek Jetty is better suited to families with older children who are comfortable walking longer distances.
The main drawbacks are the uneven sections of track and limited facilities, so visitors should bring suitable footwear, drinking water and snacks.
For families who enjoy bushwalking, birdwatching and discovering peaceful natural places, The Narrows Walk is a rewarding way to explore the beautiful Mallacoota lake system.
Web Links
→ www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/croajingolong-national-park
