Big Brook Dam Pemberton
1 / 10

Big Brook Dam Walk

4.7
·358 reviews·Channybearup, Australia

A stunning freshwater lake nestled in a hardwood forest, offering a 4km scenic walk, swimming, and picnicking.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Nature awakens beautifully

CrowdLow
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Big Brook Dam Pemberton

Big Brook Dam Walk

Best Time

Spring mornings

Nature awakens beautifully

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning freshwater lake nestled in a hardwood forest, offering a 4km scenic walk, swimming, and picnicking.

4.7
(358 reviews)

"Beautiful lake amongst a beautiful hardwood forest with a well-paved circuit walk along the lake."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack for a Swim 🌊

The dam's clear, fresh water is perfect for a refreshing swim, especially on warmer days.

Trail Shoes Recommended :athletic_shoe:

While the main circuit is sealed, the Rainbow Trail is off-road and can be challenging.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Dam Circuit Walk

The Dam Circuit Walk

Around Big Brook Dam

A 4km sealed path offering picturesque views of the freshwater lake and surrounding hardwood forest. Perfect for walking and running.

Reddit
Sandy Beach & Swimming

Sandy Beach & Swimming

North-eastern shore

A charming white sand beach with refreshing, clear waters ideal for a dip, even for families.

Reddit+1
Rainbow Trail Bike Ride

Rainbow Trail Bike Ride

Starts from Pump Hill Road

An exhilarating 5.2km off-road mountain bike trail with steep sections and beautiful bushland scenery.

Reddit
Picnic & Dam Exploration

Picnic & Dam Exploration

Grassed areas near the dam

Enjoy a picnic with facilities available, and walk across the dam for unique perspectives of the landscape.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Escape to Big Brook Dam for a peaceful retreat. This stunning freshwater lake, surrounded by towering hardwood forests, offers a serene escape. The 4km sealed circuit is perfect for leisurely strolls or invigorating runs, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers seeking a quiet day out. Instagram

Adventure Awaits

Beyond the scenic walk, Big Brook Dam is a hub for outdoor activities. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters, have a picnic amidst the lush greenery, or for the more adventurous, tackle the challenging Rainbow Trail for an off-road biking experience. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Nature awakens beautifully
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Perfect for a refreshing swim
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn evenings
Why
Golden light on the forest
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hidden Gem in WA 🇦🇺 | Big Brook Dam Walk, Pemberton 🌲💧 If you're looking for peace, stunning views, and a walk surrounded by pure Aussie nature, Big Brook Dam in Pemberton, WA is a must-visit! Tucked away in the South West, this place is one of Western Australia's most beautiful hidden gems. Perfect for walking, relaxing, and soaking up nature. 🎒Would you visit here? Drop a 🌊 if it's on your lis...
sam_prayle
5 likes • 109 views

Pack for a Swim 🌊

The dam's clear, fresh water is perfect for a refreshing swim, especially on warmer days. Reddit+1

Trail Shoes Recommended :athletic_shoe:

While the main circuit is sealed, the Rainbow Trail is off-road and can be challenging. Reddit

Big Brook DM, Pemberton #bigbrookdam #bigbrookdamtrail #bigbrookdamwalk #holidaywa #wasouthwest #pemberton #pembertonwa #explorepemberton #tourismpemberton #pemberton_australia #tododownsouth #downsouth #downsouthlures #downsouthwa #downsouthlife #freshwaterfishingaustralia #familyspot #holidaymode
perth_mum_explores
13 likes • 1.5K views
The Pemberton Big Brook Dam is less than 30 minutes drive from Manjimup. It’s a fantastic place for a swim, bike ride or walk. The track around the dam is just over 4km. #perfectweather #swimming #Pemberton #KarriGladeFarmStay
karri_glade_farm_stay
8 likes • 268 views

Picnic Essentials :sandwich:

There are picnic benches, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature. Reddit

Check for Tiger Snakes :snake:

The bushland is beautiful but be aware of local wildlife, including tiger snakes, especially on trails. Reddit

reddit.com

Pemberton

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack for a Swim 🌊

The dam's clear, fresh water is perfect for a refreshing swim, especially on warmer days. Reddit+1

Trail Shoes Recommended :athletic_shoe:

While the main circuit is sealed, the Rainbow Trail is off-road and can be challenging. Reddit

Picnic Essentials :sandwich:

There are picnic benches, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature. Reddit

Check for Tiger Snakes :snake:

The bushland is beautiful but be aware of local wildlife, including tiger snakes, especially on trails. Reddit

No Shower Facilities :shower:

Public toilets are available, but note that shower facilities are not provided. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(358 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Big Brook Dam's serene beauty, highlighting the picturesque freshwater lake and surrounding hardwood forest. The well-maintained 4km circuit walk is a major draw, perfect for leisurely strolls or runs, and the sandy beach offers a refreshing swimming spot. While generally loved, some note the lack of shower facilities and the challenging nature of the off-road biking trails.

"Beautiful lake amongst a beautiful hard wood forrest with a well paved circuit walk along the lake."

Quentien Hickey

"A beautiful spot. Nice area to stop for a picnic, go for a walk or run around the lake on a sealed 4km track, or just splash about on the little sandy beach. Water is fresh but not too cold. Very nice."

Thomas Pethybridge (Tom)

"If you are after a good workout and like challenging off road bike rides maybe take the rainbow trail from Pemberton to the Big Brook Dam. The trail starts from Pump hill road on the western side of the creek on the eastern side of the road. Look for the small yellow triangle trail marks with the rainbow serpent logo. It’s about 5.2 km and it took us at least 1 hour on our e-bikes, but we had to push our bikes up most of the steep hilly sections. It was worth it, the bush is beautiful tiger snakes included, and the lovley smooth asphalt path circumnavigating the dam is very nice. There is even a white sand beach with refreshing mountain stream swimming 🥶"

Athfos

What People Like

Beautiful lake and forest
Sealed 4km walk
Refreshing swimming beach

What People Dislike

No shower facilities
Challenging bike trails

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Big Brook Dam is conveniently located just a short drive from Pemberton. Many visitors access it via Channybearup Road, which is noted for its scenic beauty. Reddit It's also less than 30 minutes from Manjimup. Instagram

Public transport options to Big Brook Dam are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider driving from Pemberton or Manjimup. Instagram

From Pemberton, head towards Channybearup Road. The dam is well-signposted and easily reachable. If you're looking for a more adventurous route, the Rainbow Trail starts from Pump Hill Road. Reddit+1

Yes, cycling is a popular option. You can cycle on the sealed circuit around the dam or take on the more challenging Rainbow Trail for an off-road adventure. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is parking available at Big Brook Dam, particularly in the areas designated for picnics and access to the walking trails. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is generally no entry fee to access Big Brook Dam and its surrounding parklands, making it a free and accessible natural attraction. Instagram

Big Brook Dam is typically open to visitors year-round during daylight hours. It's a natural park, so there are no strict opening or closing times. Instagram

No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously. Instagram

While generally open, always check local conditions for any temporary restrictions due to weather or maintenance. Be mindful of wildlife, especially snakes on trails. Reddit

Yes, swimming is permitted and highly recommended, especially during warmer months. The water is fresh and not too cold. Reddit+1

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The main circuit walk around Big Brook Dam is approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and is a well-paved, sealed track. InstagramReddit

The sealed 4km circuit is very suitable for children, offering a safe and scenic walk. The sandy beach area is also great for kids to splash around. Reddit

Facilities include public toilets and picnic benches. There is also a small sandy beach area for swimming and relaxing. Reddit

Fishing is mentioned in relation to the dam, with one reel noting 'freshwater fishing Australia' in its hashtags. Instagram It's advisable to check local fishing regulations. Instagram

Expect a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by towering hardwood forests, offering a tranquil and picturesque natural environment. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or cafes directly at Big Brook Dam. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic. Reddit

There are several grassed areas with picnic benches around the dam, offering lovely views and a pleasant atmosphere for a picnic. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, picnic areas often imply the possibility of barbecuing. It's best to check local signage or regulations upon arrival. Reddit

Pack sandwiches, snacks, fruits, and plenty of water. Consider items that are easy to eat outdoors and don't require much preparation. Reddit

Pemberton town, a short drive away, offers various cafes and restaurants if you prefer to dine out before or after your visit to the dam. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the serene lake reflections, the towering hardwood trees, the sandy beach, and the dam structure itself. Golden hour light is particularly stunning. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer beautiful soft light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural beauty. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone operation policies before flying. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and lake views. A polarizing filter can enhance the water and sky. Instagram

The entire circuit walk offers various viewpoints. Walking across the dam itself provides a unique perspective, and the sandy beach is also a picturesque spot. Reddit+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Big Brook Dam is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The 4km sealed circuit walk is perfect for strollers and little legs, offering safe and scenic exploration. Instagram The sandy beach area is a huge hit with children, providing a safe and shallow spot for them to play and splash in the clear, fresh water. Reddit+1 Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated areas with benches, making for a relaxed and enjoyable day out. Remember to bring swim gear and towels for the kids to make the most of the swimming opportunities. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Adventure Seekers & Cyclists

For those craving an adrenaline rush, the Rainbow Trail offers an exciting off-road mountain biking experience. This challenging 5.2km track is known for its steep climbs and descents, winding through beautiful natural bushland. Reddit It's a great option for experienced cyclists looking for a workout and a taste of adventure. Reddit Alternatively, the 4km sealed circuit around the dam is perfect for a more relaxed cycling tour, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Photographers

The 4km sealed circuit walk around Big Brook Dam is a dream for nature lovers and photographers. The path provides constant, beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding towering hardwood forest. InstagramReddit Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing stunning landscape shots, with reflections on the water and the golden hues of the forest. Instagram Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, adding to the photographic opportunities. The tranquility of the dam makes it an ideal spot for mindful walking and appreciating the natural beauty of Western Australia's South West. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Big Brook Dam Circuit: A Nature Lover's Delight

The Big Brook Dam Walk is the star attraction, a 4km sealed circuit that encircles the tranquil freshwater lake. This well-maintained path is perfect for all fitness levels, offering stunning views of the surrounding hardwood forest and the dam itself. It's an ideal route for a leisurely stroll, a brisk jog, or even a family bike ride. The path is wide enough to comfortably pass other visitors, and the consistent scenery ensures there's always something beautiful to admire. InstagramReddit

Along the circuit, you'll encounter a charming white sand beach, a delightful spot to pause, dip your toes, or even take a refreshing swim in the clear, cool waters. Reddit+1 The dam structure itself is also accessible, providing a different perspective of the landscape and a chance to appreciate the engineering amidst nature. Keep an eye out for local birdlife and the diverse flora that thrives in this unique environment. Reddit

For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Rainbow Trail offers a challenging off-road biking experience. This approximately 5.2km trail is known for its steep sections and rugged terrain, winding through beautiful bushland. It's a rewarding ride for experienced mountain bikers, though it may require pushing bikes up some inclines. Reddit The contrast between the smooth, paved dam circuit and the wilder Rainbow Trail provides options for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips

When planning your trip to Big Brook Dam, remember that while the main circuit is sealed and accessible, the Rainbow Trail is an off-road track best suited for mountain bikes and requires appropriate footwear and caution. Reddit The dam is a popular spot for picnics, with facilities like benches available, so packing your own food and drinks is highly recommended as there are no cafes or restaurants on-site. Reddit

Visitors should be aware of the natural environment. While the water is inviting for a swim, it's important to be mindful of wildlife. Tiger snakes have been spotted in the bushland, so staying on marked trails and being aware of your surroundings is crucial. Reddit Public toilets are available, but note that there are no shower facilities, so plan accordingly if you intend to swim. Reddit

The best times to visit often depend on your desired activity. For a peaceful walk and photography, spring mornings or autumn evenings offer beautiful light and fewer crowds. Instagram If swimming is your priority, summer afternoons are ideal, though expect more visitors during these times. Instagram Ultimately, Big Brook Dam offers a serene and beautiful natural escape year-round. Instagram

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