Canoeing & Kayaking on The Murray: Paddle Your Way to Paradise

There's no better way to connect with the Murray River than to be in it. Whether you're after a relaxing paddle along one of the region's inspiring canoe trails, or exploring the unique ecosystems of Gunbower Island and the Barmah wetlands, The Murray has something for every paddler.

From beginner-friendly stretches of the lower Murray near Wentworth to guided kayak tours of Lake Mulwala and canoeing through the flooded forests of Barmah, the river offers diverse experiences for all skill levels. Discover hidden gems, spot native wildlife, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this iconic Australian waterway.

Top Trails & Locations:

  • Lake Mulwala
    Discover the otherworldly beauty of this lake on a guided kayak tour. Enjoy calm waters and sandy river beaches off Gunbower Creek.
  • Gunbower Island
    Explore the recreational trail at Safe's Lagoon and try to spot native birds and maybe even reel in a Murray Cod.
  • Edward River Canoe Trail (Mathoura to Deniliquin)
    Discover another beautiful waterway on this designated canoe trail.
  • Mildura
    The Hattah-Kulkyne National Park and Kings Billabong offer excellent canoeing and kayaking options.
  • Lower Murray River (Wentworth area)
    Perfect for beginners, this section of the river is free from rapids. Paddle past majestic red gums, stop for a riverside picnic, or try your hand at fishing.

Murray River Canoe Trails (Murray Valley National Park & Barmah National Park)
Four marked trails offer various lengths and difficulty levels, from short loops to longer one-way trips. Explore the flowing Murray, secluded creeks, and Barmah Lake, surrounded by majestic river red gum forests. These Ramsar-listed wetlands are a haven for waterbirds and great for fishing.

Things to note:

  • Water Levels: Check Murray River and Barmah Lake water levels and flow rates before setting out, as these can affect safety and paddling time. Optimal levels are: Murray River 1.4m-2.4m (too shallow below 1.2m, dangerous above 2.7m); Barmah Lake 2.2m-2.8m (too shallow below 1.9m, dangerous above 3m).
  • Maps and Navigation: Download maps (available as PDFs) or the NPWS app for GPS-enabled maps for the Murray River canoe trails.
  • Best Time to Paddle: September to April is generally the best time for paddling on the Murray River.

Massive Murray Paddle event:
The iconic Massive Murray Paddle (Murray Marathon) is a 404km canoe race from Yarrawonga to Swan Hill, held annually in December. Participants raise money for charity and test their stamina in this five-day event.

Visitor Information

Getting There & Parking:

The Murray River canoe trails are accessible from three main points: Picnic Point (NSW), Barmah Lakes day visitor area (VIC), and Barmah Punt (VIC).

  • Picnic Point: From Mathoura, head west on Jones Street/Picnic Point Road (~10km) to the boat ramp.
  • Barmah Lakes day visitor area: From Moama (via Cobb Highway), turn north onto Barmah Road (~14.5km). In Barmah, turn left onto Moira Lakes Road (~6.3km), then left again to the visitor area.
  • Barmah Punt: From Moama (via Cobb Highway), turn right onto Barmah Road (~14km) to Barmah township. Turn right onto Evans Street to the carpark.

Free parking is available at all locations.

Facilities:

  • Picnic Point: Barbecue, fish cleaning table, general store, toilets, carpark, boat ramp, pontoon.
  • Barmah Lakes day visitor area: Picnic shelter, tables, toilets, carpark, boat ramp, information shelter.
  • Barmah Punt: General store, toilet, carpark, boat ramp.

Accessibility: These trails are not wheelchair accessible.

Fishing: Fishing is permitted (NSW recreational fishing license required).

Sign up & we'll send you our latest events and deals in the region. 
No spam, promise!