About Lake Burley Griffin
Lake Burley Griffin is a large artificial lake in central Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, created in 1963-1964 by damming the Molonglo River with Scrivener Dam. Designed as the centrepiece of Walter Burley Griffin's 1912 plan for the capital, it spans about 11 kilometres and separates the Parliamentary Triangle from northern suburbs. Surrounded by national institutions, parks and cycling paths, it is Canberra's main recreational and scenic focal point.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large central urban lake surrounded by parklands, foreshores and national institutions. The lake features six islands, including Aspen Island, bridges including Commonwealth Avenue and Kings Avenue bridges, and a 40km shared walking and cycling loop. Surroundings include Commonwealth Park, Kings Park, Yarralumla foreshore and the Parliamentary Triangle. Activities include walking, cycling, picnicking, kayaking, sailing and sightseeing with views of Parliament House, the National Library and the Captain Cook Memorial Jet.
Key highlights
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Centrepiece of Walter Burley Griffin's plan for Canberra created by Scrivener Dam in 1964
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40km Central Basin loop for walking and cycling around the foreshore
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Captain Cook Memorial Jet and National Carillon on Aspen Island
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Foreshore parklands including Commonwealth Park, Kings Park and Weston Park