Pack 'n' Paddle
Ever dreamt of truly disconnecting and immersing yourself in Western Australia’s stunning natural playground? The Pack ‘n’ Paddle adventure is your perfect escape! This isn’t just a tour; it’s an overnight journey where you’ll hike through the majestic Jarrah forest, sleep under a blanket of stars, and then paddle the serene and sometimes thrilling Murray River. It’s ideal for friends, couples, or small groups keen to embrace the outdoors without needing a heap of prior experience. Just bring your enthusiasm and we’ll handle the rest, setting you up for an unforgettable two-day wilderness experience!
Tour Details & Highlights
Get ready for an incredible overnight adventure that combines the best of land and water! Our Pack ‘n’ Paddle tour is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Dwellingup at your own pace.
Day 1: The Hike Your journey begins at 10:30 AM on Day 1 when you check in with us at Dwellingup Adventures. From there, you’ll set off on a self-guided 13km hike along a section of the famous Bibbulmun Track, from Dwellingup to the charming Swamp Oak Hut. Breathe in that incredible fresh forest air as you trek through the towering Jarrah trees. We provide a map with route notes, and while the track is well-marked, it’s always wise to stay alert and enjoy the scenery!
Swamp Oak Hut is a rustic, three-sided shelter with tiered bunks, a water tank, pit toilets, and a fire pit (season dependent – so remember to pack a stove for cooking!). Spend your evening under an unbelievable canopy of stars – a truly magical experience.
Day 2: The Paddle After a peaceful night, a short 1.8km walk from Swamp Oak Hut brings you to Island Pool on the Murray River. Our friendly Dwellingup Adventures staff will meet you at 10:00 AM, ready to swap your hiking gear for your supplied paddling equipment. We’ll even take any gear you don’t need on the river back to our office for you!
Then, it’s time to hit the water! Spend the next few hours paddling downstream on a 6km section of the Murray River. You’ll glide through long, tranquil pools, navigate exciting fast-moving channels, and even tackle a couple of small rapids – perfect for a bit of a thrill! The riverbanks are lined with lush forest, offering spectacular views.
Your paddle concludes at Dwaarlindjirraap (Baden Powell Waterspout). Don’t worry, we’ll meet you there at 2:00 PM to transfer you and all the equipment back to your vehicle in Dwellingup. This canoe leg is suitable for novices and beginners; at lower water levels, you might need to hop out and walk your canoe through shallow spots.
Important Notes:
- This tour operates daily.
- Day 1 start: 10:30 AM, Day 2 finish: 2:00 PM.
- Ages 8+ recommended (you’ll need to be able to hike 13km). See FAQ for shorter distance.
- Basic fitness level required.
- Min: 1 person, Max: 20 people.
- The tour includes all transfers, your choice of canoe/s or raft (depending on river levels), paddles, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and a map.
- You can hire camping equipment from us or bring your own. We offer delivery of camp equipment to the hut for an extra $80.00.
- More detailed Bibbulmun Track maps can be purchased at the Dwellingup Adventures trails shop.
- River levels are crucial for this tour. It’s dependent on natural rainfall, and April to October are usually the best months. We will advise you if water levels are unsuitable, and we have a safety cut-off for high water. Typically, from November to March, the river gets quite low, making this tour unavailable.
Safety and Equipment
Your safety is paramount. Our canoes and rafts are supplied in good working order. While the river section is generally suitable for novices, it’s a natural environment. If you encounter any issues with your equipment on the river, or if you become unable to proceed, the Murray River is paralleled by two roads: River Road (on river right, looking downstream) and Murray Valley Road (on river left). River Road can lead you back to your vehicle if needed. If you’re not at Baden Powell Waterspout at your designated pick-up time, Dwellingup Adventures staff will travel along River Road to check your location. Please secure all gear and canoes up from the river and note your location if you need to call for assistance.
Crucial Safety Point: Along the route you will see Bobs Crossing. You must exit and walk around the crossing. You must avoid going close to the tunnels. At certain river levels they can be extremely hazardous. They are easily avoided. Never attempt to paddle over the crossing. At the finish point, you will clearly see Baden Powell Water Spout. This is a severe drop that forms a Grade 4 rapid in high water and dangerous exposed rocky formations in low water. The area is clearly marked and easily avoided. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU DO NOT PROCEED OVER OR DOWNSTREAM OF BADEN POWELL WATER SPOUT.
