Portland - Fawthrop Lagoon Walk

Fawthrop Lagoon is a significant natural wetland close to central Portland. Its network of sealed paths provides families with a choice of shorter and longer walks through an important habitat for waterbirds and other wildlife.

Around 150 bird species have been recorded at the lagoon throughout the year. Regular visitors include black swans, pelicans, royal spoonbills and red-tailed black cockatoos. A bird hide on the western side provides a quiet place to watch the wildlife.

The northern circuit includes a wooden footbridge and some steeper rises and descents. The southern circuit crosses wooden walkways and the Rotary Bridge. Other attractions around the lagoon include outdoor exercise equipment, picnic areas, undercover barbecues and connections to Henty Park, Portland Botanic Gardens and the Portland Powerhouse Motor and Car Museum.

Walk Details:

Distance: Approximately 2-5 km depending on the selected circuit
Time: Approximately 30 minutes to 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy, with some steeper sections
Type: Network of connected circuits
Surface: Sealed paths with wooden bridges and boardwalks
Suitable for walking, running, bicycles, prams and wheelchairs

Facilities:

Public toilets
Undercover barbecues
Picnic tables
Outdoor exercise equipment
Drinking fountain
Dog-waste bag dispenser
Bird hide
Rubbish bins
Car parking

Accessibility:

The paved paths are generally suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Some sections contain steep rises, descents, wooden bridges and boardwalks, so wheelchair users may require assistance. Hood Street provides one of the most convenient accessible starting points.

Access for Dogs:

Dogs are permitted but should remain on a leash. Owners must carry waste bags and clean up after their dogs.

Parking:

Parking is available in Hood Street behind the soccer field. Other access points include Glenelg Street near the Portland Powerhouse Motor and Car Museum, View Street and the area opposite Henty Park. The View Street entrance is not recommended for wheelchair access.