Snowy River Estuary Walk, Marlo
Snowy River Estuary Walk, Marlo
A fabulous must-do Gippsland walk with sensational views of the Snowy River entrance, as well as numerous boardwalk and wetlands sections to observe the birdlife and other animals, such as lizards.
Summary
A fabulous must-do Gippsland walk with sensational views of the Snowy River entrance, as well as numerous boardwalk and wetlands sections to observe the birdlife and other animals, such as lizards.
Description
Starting in the coastal township of Marlo, the walk explores the lower reaches of the Snowy River estuary finishing at the ocean beach opposite Frenches Narrows.
The walk has many lookouts and provides breathtaking elevated views of the estuary, river mouth and the sweep of coastline to Point Ricardo in the east.
The walk is about 5km one way (10k return) but can be done in sections.
The first section from Marlo to Mots Beach is about 3km with a flat even surface with no steps or steep sections so it is quite accessible and suitable for prams.
The second section from Mots Beach steps to Ocean Beach ) is hardened gravel surface and has some gentle hill sections or sections and some steps.
We did the walk in January when there was an array of wildflowers to be found.
Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
2216 Views
Points of Interest
1. Flowering gum
What a beautiful tree near the start of the walk that was flowering in mid-January.
2. Marlo Light House Flora Reserve
A nice little reserve offering a shaded path .
3. Sampson's lookout picnic table
Love the pelican sculpture too!
4. Through the bush
Cool, lush and beautiful on a warmish day.
5. Views to the mouth
Another of the many vantage points along the walk.
6. Footpath on Marine Pde
The walk crosses back to the other side of Marine Pde where there is not a lot of shade but, there are lots of front yards to look at.
7. Bush reserve
After the houses the walk enters a gorgeous Banksia and gum forest teeming with lizards and birds.
8. The Snowy
It is worth ducking across the road to look at the view of the river.
9. Orchids
Rosy or pink hyacinth-orchid (Dipodium roseum) can be found in a range of habitats from dry woodland to wet forests all the way up the coast as far as Queensland.
10. Road crossing
There a a few road crossings along the walk but, it was quite easy to see the occasional oncoming vehicle.
11. Boardwalks
One of the many boardwalks that enable you to get close to the trees and see down into the gullies below.
12. Flowers
Some of the many wildflowers to be found on the walk.
13. Shady path
The changing vegetation makes for a pleasant walk.
14. Lovelock Lookout
We don't know how the lookout got its name, but we loved it.
15. Looking back
Another of the amazing views, this time up stream.
16. Carpark and picnic area
There were a few picnic tables near the car park.
17. Littoral Rainforest
There was a little patch of rainforest, that is unfortunately critically endangered. The Grey-headed flying fox (bat) can sometimes be seen nearby.
18. A swim
A good pace for a swim, but the water of the Snowy was a bit cool...
19. Through the dunes
The path through dunes has rubber mats to make the walk easier. Keep an eye out for birds, we saw some brightly coloured Australian King Parrots.
20. Boardwalk to bridge
As you come towards Frenches Narrows the wonderful boardwalk enables you to really appreciate the surroundings.
21. View from footbridge
Nice views both ways.
22. Wetlands
A boardwalk over the wetlands, we were hoping to see a snake below but unfortunately didn't.
23. The inlet
The walk finishes at the Snowy, but you can continue around the shore and over the dunes to the beach (not far).
24. Look out
Before you return, you might want to ascend the 59 stairs up to the look out.
Features
Playground
Picnic spot
Drinking water available
Seating available
Public toilets
Nature trail
Lake, creek, river
