Located in the Lakeside Estate of Pakenham, this busy little trail offers a delightful walk for both locals and visitors alike. Despite its popularity, the trail manages to maintain a sense of safety, making it an ideal spot for those with Reactive Pups. The walk can be best enjoyed during quieter times, as weekends and sunny days tend to attract more foot traffic.
Spanning a manageable 1.8km, this trail provides a perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll. The flat paved paths make it accessible for all ages and fitness levels, while the presence of a playground adds an extra element of enjoyment for families with children. As you wander along, be prepared to encounter a diverse range of wildlife, adding a touch of excitement to your outdoor adventure.
After soaking in some fresh air, you can unwind at one of the many charming cafes located nearby. Treat yourself to a cup of coffee and some delicious local treats! However, it's essential to remember the guidelines in place – refrain from feeding the ducks unless you have purchased duck food at the entry point. This simple act helps maintain the ecological balance of the area and ensures the well-being of the wildlife inhabiting the trail.
GENERAL TRAIN INFORMATION
Location: Lakeside Estate, Pakenham
Distance: 1.8km
Track Type: Paved
Grade: Level 1
Dogs on Lead: Yes- Well Signed!
Required Gear: Lead, Poop Bags, Harness.
Bins: Plenty, but be prepared to carry bags some distance between bins.
Busy Periods: Weekends, Summer Evenings, School Holidays
Phone Signal: Full signal, all Providers.
Getting There: "Lakeside Cultural Centre" in Google Maps.
Parking: Parking available on Lakeside Blvd at the Cultural Centre or further up the road at Lakeside Coles or Aldi. Parking also available behind Copper & Fox.
Nearest Vet: The Animal Doctors, Princes Hwy , Pakenham
ABOUT THIS TRAIL
We Explored a Lovely Trail on a Windy Day
Walking the trail on a breezy day meant fewer people around, which was nice. The trail itself was super easy and pleasant to stroll along. Despite the wind, the peaceful vibe of the surroundings made the walk even better. We got to see ducks and swans chilling in the water, adding to the calmness of the place. Just a heads up, it might not be the best spot for hyper dogs who go crazy around birds.
Rowing, Paddle Boarding, and a Dragon Playground
On the trail, you can catch folks rowing and paddle boarding on the lake, adding some action to the scene. Remember to keep your doggo on a leash near the water for everyone's safety. Also, watch out for people coming in and out of the water near the dock!
Don't miss the Dragon Playground near the dock – it's a fun pit stop, especially if you have kids. And if you started from the Cultural Centre, you might run into some friendly local dogs on your way back along the opposite side the lake where there is housing against the path. They were curious but well-behaved- some did come up to the fence but we were not barked at by any of them!
Chill Out and Refuel
Most of the trail has wide grassy areas, perfect for a leisurely walk while keeping your distance. Just a heads up, weekends can get a bit crowded. To wrap up your walk, grab a coffee at Frankies or enjoy a tasty meal at Copper & Fox in their cozy outdoor dining spot.
TRIGGER INFORMATION
Trigger | Notes |
Dogs | This is a dog on lead trail, and we are yet to see a dog off lead here. Weekends, Summer Evenings and School Holidays are very busy though, and thought there is plenty of ways to give yourself space, it may be too much for dogs who still need significant assistance and support to manage dog interactions. There is also at least 2 yards with dogs on the side with the apartments buildings. The fencing would not prevent damage during a bite incident and can easily be jumped, although all of the dogs acknowledged us without barking or running. There are very clear signs throughout the trail reminding people that dogs must be on lead- including at the Dock/Beach area. Please keep dogs on lead if they enter the water, and do not allow them to harass wildlife. |
Humans | This trail is in the centre of Lakeside Estate and starts on a busy main road with many shops. There is also a playground at one end and several backyards facing onto the the trail. Even on poor weather days, you will see many people and children from the moment you get out of the car. You may also come across humans in row boats, kayaks & paddle boards out on the water as well as people fishing off the dock and viewing platforms. |
Light/Shadow | There is trees that cast shadows along the trail as-well as many leaves about. There is also reflections on the water, and underwater shadows from water plants and the rocks etc on the bottom of the lake. |
Bugs, Birds & Wildlife | Lots of wildlife- in particular Ducks, Water Hens and Swans. The Swans in particular are not worried about humans or dogs and may not move off the footpath or may sit quite near to it. Quite often there will be ducks and water hens sitting on the grass, dock and other viewing platforms. There is fish in the lake too so there may be buckets of bait or caught fish around as well. |
Vehicles | The main entry onto the trail is on the busy Lakeside Blvd and the carpark is shared with the cultural centre or you can reverse park on either side of Lakeside Blvd- side street parking may be more suitable for dogs who chase vehicles. Once on the trail, cars are a good distance away and the plants mostly block the view of any street. Bikes are allowed on this path, but only children under 12. |
Other | This trail does have water- Please do not allow your dog off lead to swim. They can dip their toes at several points though! |
NEARBY DOG FRIENDLY FOOD
Copper & Fox is one of our favourite spots in Pakenham! There is a small outdoor area, but please call ahead first as this will not be suitable or easily accessed by all. Thankfully, they do take-away too! Highly recommend the Seafood Linguine!
Frankies Cafe is located just up the road in the Lakeside Shopping precinct and has many outdoor tables.
Maceys Pizza is located next to Frankies in the Lakeside Shopping Precinct. There is no eat-in but there are plenty of spots to have a picnic on the trail. Highly recommend the churros if you're after a sweet treat!
Lilin & Co is a bit further up the road across Princes Hwy in the Homemaker Centre. Some of the nicest coffee in Pakenham as well as a range of sweet treats, gluten free meals and a lovely sunny outdoor seating area! (Not suitable for vehicle chasing dogs as it is located on a busy roundabout).
NEARBY DOG FRIENDLY TRAILS AND CAMPING
Trails:
Toomuc Creek Trail Walk- Edenbrook Estate, Pakenham
Cardinia Aqueduct Trail- Officer
DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this blog is given as general advice only. Handlers should consider their own skills and abilities and that of their dog before attempting any walk published on this site. Information is correct at time of publishing. Hedy Nerdy Dog Training is not responsible or liable to any damage, injury or loss as a result of attempting any walk listed on this site.
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