Enoggera Reservior
Brisbane
The Gap
A delightful paddle around a small dam surrounded by forest and brimming with lily pads and wildlife, with onsite kayak/SUP hire.
This heavily trafficked paddle starts from the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre in the Gap at the designated swimming spot.
There is a portage from the car park of about 200m, which can be a little gruelling without a trolley. There is also onsite kayak and SUP hire at certain times.
From the swimming location, head left and circumnavigate the reservoir, hugging the right-hand bank.
Great views of the dam wall are afforded, with Mount Coot-tha in the background, as you round a corner fringed with bamboo.
The banks are lined with lily pads as you make your way into the most open part of the dam. Wildlife is aplenty, including a wide array of water birds and larger birds of prey, as well as turtles and lizards on the shoreline.
You may see or hear walkers on the trails that surround the dam.
As you approach the western end of the dam, there is a narrow tributary brimming with lily pads that can be followed until it bottoms out on a rocky creek bed.
On the return, continue sticking with the right-hand bank, with even better views of the dam wall. Explore the little inlet to the right, before the dam wall, to find a rope swing and additional swimming spot.
Pass by the dam wall and get an up close look on your way back to the start point.
Difficulty: The reservoir is open and offers limited protection from the wind. On a low-wind condition day, it is an extremely pleasant paddle. The tributary is narrow and more protected.
Direction: This is an out-and-back paddle that returns the way it came, circumnavigating the reservoir banks. There is limited ability for getting lost.
getting there
The paddle starts at the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre, on Mount Nebo Road in The Gap.
Parking is ample, however given the variety of activities at the location (e.g., swimming, walking), it does become extremely busy, especially on weekends, and often fills up.
best time to go
The paddle can be completed year-round. There is limited shade during the middle parts of the day, so morning or afternoon is recommended.
As with any kayak, it is recommended to go in low-wind conditions.
The reservoir is not tidal.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.