Lake Elizabeth Walk

Lake Elizabeth Walk is a 2 km out-and-back, about one hour return, from the day visitor area to Lake Elizabeth. It follows the East Barwon River through tall forest before opening onto the water. Choose this approach if you want to see the lake without taking on the separate Lake Elizabeth Loop Walk. It is a short hike, but the track rises and dips; it is not a level stroll. Leave time to linger at the lake, especially if you hope to spot wildlife.

The walk begins among tall forest and keeps close to the river for much of the approach. The mapped route reaches the lake's eastern boardwalk; turn around there and retrace the same path. There are short climbs and descents, with uneven ground underfoot, so expect to watch the trail rather than walk it like a smooth riverside promenade. The longer loop is a different outing: it continues around the shoreline and adds more track, so follow its signs only if you mean to extend the walk.

Lake Elizabeth is a young landscape feature. In 1952, heavy rain triggered a landslide that blocked the East Barwon River and flooded a forested valley. The river overtopped the natural dam later that year; heavy rain breached part of it in 1953, leaving a much smaller lake. Pale standing tree trunks are still visible in the water, reminders that this was once a forested valley rather than a lake. The drowned trees and the steep, timbered slopes give the shoreline its distinctive look.

A platypus colony lives at the lake, and dawn or dusk is usually the best time to look. A sighting is never guaranteed, so treat it as a reason to slow down rather than a promise. Keep your distance and tread lightly along the water's edge. The tall forest and river make the approach worthwhile even if the lake stays quiet.

Start at the Lake Elizabeth Day Visitor Area off Kaanglang Road near Forrest. The campground is separate and about 1 km from the lake, so do not use it as a substitute trailhead. Dogs are allowed on lead on the adjoining walking tracks. The terrain is steep in places and snakes are a stated hazard; take care on uneven sections and keep dogs close. For a photograph, frame some of the standing trunks with the water and forest behind them; that shows why this lake looks different from an ordinary bushland pond.