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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Nature awakens beautifully

Big Brook Dam Walk
Best Time
Nature awakens beautifully

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning freshwater lake nestled in a hardwood forest, offering a 4km scenic walk, swimming, and picnicking.
"Beautiful lake amongst a beautiful hardwood forest with a well-paved circuit walk along the lake."

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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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.

Sandy Beach & Swimming
North-eastern shore
A charming white sand beach with refreshing, clear waters ideal for a dip, even for families.

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.

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Adventure Awaits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Picnic Essentials :sandwich:
There are picnic benches, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature.
Check for Tiger Snakes :snake:
The bushland is beautiful but be aware of local wildlife, including tiger snakes, especially on trails.
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.
Trail Shoes Recommended :athletic_shoe:
While the main circuit is sealed, the Rainbow Trail is off-road and can be challenging.
Picnic Essentials :sandwich:
There are picnic benches, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature.
Check for Tiger Snakes :snake:
The bushland is beautiful but be aware of local wildlife, including tiger snakes, especially on trails.
No Shower Facilities :shower:
Public toilets are available, but note that shower facilities are not provided.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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. It's also less than 30 minutes from Manjimup.
Public transport options to Big Brook Dam are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider driving from Pemberton or Manjimup.
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.
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.
Yes, there is parking available at Big Brook Dam, particularly in the areas designated for picnics and access to the walking trails.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously.
While generally open, always check local conditions for any temporary restrictions due to weather or maintenance. Be mindful of wildlife, especially snakes on trails.
Yes, swimming is permitted and highly recommended, especially during warmer months. The water is fresh and not too cold.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main circuit walk around Big Brook Dam is approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and is a well-paved, sealed track.
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.
Facilities include public toilets and picnic benches. There is also a small sandy beach area for swimming and relaxing.
Fishing is mentioned in relation to the dam, with one reel noting 'freshwater fishing Australia' in its hashtags. It's advisable to check local fishing regulations.
Expect a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by towering hardwood forests, offering a tranquil and picturesque natural environment.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
There are several grassed areas with picnic benches around the dam, offering lovely views and a pleasant atmosphere for a picnic.
While not explicitly mentioned, picnic areas often imply the possibility of barbecuing. It's best to check local signage or regulations upon arrival.
Pack sandwiches, snacks, fruits, and plenty of water. Consider items that are easy to eat outdoors and don't require much preparation.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene lake reflections, the towering hardwood trees, the sandy beach, and the dam structure itself. Golden hour light is particularly stunning.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer beautiful soft light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural beauty.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone operation policies before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and lake views. A polarizing filter can enhance the water and sky.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴♀️ Adventure Seekers & Cyclists
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Big Brook Dam Circuit: A Nature Lover's Delight
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. 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.
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. The contrast between the smooth, paved dam circuit and the wilder Rainbow Trail provides options for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
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. Public toilets are available, but note that there are no shower facilities, so plan accordingly if you intend to swim.
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. If swimming is your priority, summer afternoons are ideal, though expect more visitors during these times. Ultimately, Big Brook Dam offers a serene and beautiful natural escape year-round.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit