Lake Argyle is a large freshwater lake in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) east of the town of Kununurra. It is the largest man-made lake in Australia, covering more than 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles) at full capacity.
The lake was formed after the construction of the Loch Argyll Dam on the River Ord in the 1970s, which was built for irrigation and hydroelectric power. The dam is an impressive structure, 98 meters (322 ft) high and 1,035 meters (3,395 ft) wide, and holds approximately 44 times the water capacity of Sydney Harbour.
Lake Argyle is a popular tourist destination for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and numerous leisure activities. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, fishing, kayaking, and swimming in the clear waters of the lake. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including more than 25,000 freshwater crocodiles, as well as many species of fish, birds, and marsupials.
One of Lake Argyle's most popular attractions is the sunset cruise, which takes visitors on a leisurely boat ride across the lake as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a breathtakingly beautiful display of color. The lake also offers numerous camping and lodging options, including luxury cottages, houseboats, and an RV park.
In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Lake Argyle plays an important role in the local community, providing irrigation water for surrounding farmland and supporting the region's agricultural industry. Overall, Lake Argyle is a must-see on any trip to the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
Lake Argyle offers a wide range of leisure activities including:
1. Boat trip: Lake Argyll is a popular destination for boat trips, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the vast expanse of the lake and surrounding scenery. A variety of boat tours are available, including guided tours, sunset tours, and private charters.
2. Fishing: Lake Argyle is home to a variety of fish, including barramundi, catfish, and saratoga. Visitors can fish from shore or from a boat, and fishing gear can be rented on-site.
3. Kayaking and canoeing: The calm waters of Lake Argyle make it an ideal location for kayaking and canoeing. Visitors can rent kayaks and canoes on-site, or bring their own.
4. Swimming: The clear fresh water of Lake Argyle is perfect for swimming, and there are several safe swimming areas around the lake.
5. Bird watching: Lake Argyle is home to a variety of bird species, including egrets, herons, ibis, and kingfishers. Bird watching is a popular activity with visitors, and there are several viewing platforms and trails to choose from.
6. Scenic walks and hikes: There are several walking trails around the lake that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife.
7. Houseboats and camping: Visitors can rent a houseboat or camp on the shores of Lake Argyle, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Lake Argyle and the surrounding area.
8. Wildlife viewing: Lake Argyll is home to a variety of wildlife, including freshwater crocodiles, wallabies, and rock wallabies. Visitors can take a wildlife viewing tour, or keep an eye out for the animals while exploring the area.
