Murray-Sunset: Pink Lakes, Nature and Salt Mining History

In the wider Murray-Sunset region, the Pink Lakes combine a striking natural setting with the history of salt mining and a range of ways to spend time outdoors. This mix is useful when planning your trip: you can discover a seasonal landscape feature, fit a walking trail into your schedule or weigh up water-based activities against four-wheel-drive outings.

Pink Lakes, Seasonal Colours and Native Birds

Lake Hardy is considered the pinkest of the Pink Lakes in Murray-Sunset National Park. The Pink Lakes take their name from their colour in late summer, when algae produce the red pigment carotene. The colour depends on conditions. If you want to experience this natural feature, bear its seasonal nature in mind when planning your trip, rather than expecting the colour to remain the same.

The national park is home to Malleefowl, Regent Parrot, Red-lored Whistler and Mallee Emu-wren, all four of which are native to the area. This adds a specific nature theme to the distinctive landscape. However, individual animal sightings cannot be planned as a guaranteed experience.

Salt Mining and Regional History

Abandoned remnants of salt mines and salt heaps lie around the edges of the Pink Lakes. Operations ended in 1979. These remains give the landscape a historical dimension: the lakes are both a natural environment and a setting for work carried out in the past.

The Kline Loop Nature Walk explores the history of long-term salt mining in the area, the harsh conditions faced by workers and life in a remote part of the state. Shearers Quarters Cottage offers another glimpse into the past: the historic building once served as sleeping quarters for men who drove livestock through the region. Regional history thus centres on both salt production and working conditions, as well as the former practice of driving livestock.

Walking Trail, Water Activities and Scenic Drives

The walking trail around Lake Hardy is 1.7 km long, rated Grade 3 and takes about 45 minutes. Its length and approximate duration provide a practical guide for planning your day; the rating is an additional trail classification. Canoeing, boating and fishing are possible in the floodplain landscapes around Walpolla, Lindsay and Mulcra Island. Local conditions can affect access.

The drives also vary in character. Pioneer Drive passes through the Pink Lakes area from Lake Crosbie, via Lake Kenyon, to Lake Becking. In a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you can drive to Mount Crozier Lookout or the old outpost at Mopoke Hut. Check current road conditions before setting out.

Getting There and Choosing a Base

The Pink Lakes are on the Mallee Highway, 60 km west of Ouyen. An all-weather gravel road runs for 13 km to the main camping areas at Lake Crosbie. The Pink Lakes can also be reached from Linga via a gravel road suitable for two-wheel-drive vehicles. Check current road conditions before setting out.

The directions from Linga and the Mallee Highway provide practical guidance; the walking trail, water activities and four-wheel-drive outings suit different kinds of trips. By considering your destinations alongside the routes to reach them, you can choose a base that suits your planned stay.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Wandin North, Merricks, Amphitheatre, Drung, Winchelsea, North Wangaratta, Mt Beauty, Sunbury

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