Thrombolites
Lake Clifton in Yalgorup National Park is quite a popular attraction. First, it is home to thrombolites – living organisms that are believed to be one of the earliest life forms on earth. These micro-organisms form calcium rich structures that over the years become thrombolites. Thrombolies are only found in a few places in the world and the ones at Lake Clifton are the largest in the southern hemisphere. They are around 2000 years old.
Thrombolites look quite impressive due to their interesting rounded shape. Visiting this place with children can be fun. You can play a game with them, suggesting to say what object each of the thrombolite can resemble. We had mostly pancakes, pies and meatballs (you could guess, that someone was hungry 😊).
What else is there at Lake Clifton?
Lake Clifton is a photographer’s delight. The best time to take nice scenery pictures is during the sunset when you see changing colours from the sky across the water and down to the thrombolites.
There is also a pleasant and easy 5km Lakeside loop walk, running parallel to Lake Cliffton. The vegetation there is quite thick on the sides of the track and in season you can spot some pretty wildflowers.
Microtis media Common Mignonette orchid (above).
There are picnic facilities, bbq and toilets near the carpark. There is no entry fee to Yalgorup National Park. Unfortunately, you cannot bring dogs there. If you would like to camp near Lake Clifton, we recommend staying at Martins Tank campground. It is a great bush camp and it is only half an hour drive south.
