Lake Way

Signs by the Lake Way mark the start of different Discovery Walks as well as the locations of various Garden Areas.

The Lake Way is a wide and flat sealed road with rest seats and water bubblers along the way. It is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. A small electric buggy (People Mover) driven by a volunteer/guide is available to assist people with restricted mobility for transport up and back the Lake Way. Book ahead at the Information Centre and Shop (02) 6648 4188. A small fee applies and all proceeds support the garden.

Distances from the entrance to discovery walks and garden areas along the Lake Way:

100 metres to the Coffs Creek path, Garlambirla Walk and picnic areas by the water
250 metres to the start of the Nature Trail
350 metres to the Rare and Endangered Plants and the Early Settlers Walk
600 metres to the Sensory Garden and the Glasshouse
700 metres to Eastern Australian Plants and Rainforests
800 metres to International Garden Areas
900 metres to the lake, red bridge, and the Japanese Friendship Garden

On the Lake Way – the difference water makes from one side to the other

The Lake Way straddles a transition zone between forest trees which prefer drier soils, such as Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus signata) on the sloping ground to the western side of the path and wet soil tolerant trees such as the Paperbarks (Melaleuca quinquenervia) along with the Bangalow and Cabbage Tree Palms on the flat eastern side. 

The majestic Swamp Mahogany (Eucalyptus robusta) trees are found in a narrow belt alongside the Lake Way as the soil changes from drier to wetter. The Swamp Mahogany is also one of the preferred feed trees for the koala living in the garden, along with the Tallowwood (Eucalyptus microcorys). Many birds can be seen along the path including a pair of Powerful Owls in from late autumn to early spring.