Lake Burbury

Lake Burbury is a stunning man-made lake in western Tasmania, cradled by the rugged peaks of the West Coast Range. Its deep blue waters, surrounded by temperate rainforest and alpine moorland, offer a serene escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is a popular stop on the way to the iconic World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, making it an ideal detour for self-drive travellers seeking solitude and raw Tasmanian beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Scenic Drives: The road along the lake's eastern shore provides breathtaking views of the water and mountains, with several pull-offs for photos.
• Fishing: Lake Burbury is renowned for its brown and rainbow trout fishing, especially in the spring and autumn months.
• Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore short walks like the Burbury Lakeside Walk or tackle longer routes into the adjacent wilderness.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for platypus, echidnas, and a variety of birdlife, including the endangered wedge-tailed eagle.
• Boating and Kayaking: The calm waters are perfect for canoeing or kayaking, with boat ramps available for easy access.
• Photography: The reflections of Mount Owen and Mount Lyell in the still waters create unforgettable photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers spend 2–4 hours at Lake Burbury, combining a scenic drive with a short walk and a picnic. If you're an angler or kayaker, plan for a half-day to fully enjoy the lake. It's also a perfect overnight stop for those wanting to explore the surrounding wilderness more deeply — the nearby Lake Burbury Campground offers basic facilities.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park — a must-visit for hiking and iconic Tasmanian landscapes, about an hour's drive north.
• Queenstown — a historic mining town with a dramatic lunar-like landscape and the West Coast Wilderness Railway.
• Strahan — a charming harbour village on Macquarie Harbour, offering cruises to Sarah Island and the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.
• Frenchmans Cap — a challenging but rewarding multi-day hike through pristine wilderness.
• Nelson Falls — a beautiful waterfall walk along the Lyell Highway, just a short drive from the lake.

Please check official sources for current details.