About this place
The most striking things about the thrombolites are their limestone colour and rounded shape. The thrombolite-building micro-organisms are too small for the human eye to see and resemble the earliest forms of life on Earth.
The discovery of modern examples helped scientists to understand the significance of micro-organisms in the environment and unravel the long history of life on Earth.
Scientists know little about the thrombolites and why they form at Lake Clifton, but one theory is that they form because the lake is associated with upwellings of fresh groundwater that is high in calcium carbonate. The micro-organisms living in this environment are able to precipitate calcium carbonate from the waters as they photosynthesise, forming the mineralised structure that is the thrombolite.
Lake Clifton’s thrombolites are very fragile, so an observation walkway has been built for visitors to enjoy these incredible formations while protecting them from damage.
Do not leave cash or valuables in your car
Safety information
Plan when to visit. Consider travelling with a personal location beacon (PLB). In the event you need to be rescued it could save your life!
Gallery
Path from the parking area out to the jetty
Picnic area at the Lake Clifton Thrombolites
Thrombolites in the shallows
Lake Clifton in July. The thrombolites are less clearly visible when the water level is higher.
Lake Clifton Thrombolites all under water in July
The Lakeside Loop Trail, which starts at the Thrombolites parking area
Facilities
Toilet
Picnic table
Jetty
Activities
Bird watching
Bushwalking
Picnicking
Plants, wildlife and fungi
Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded within a 5km radius of Lake Clifton Thrombolites.
Traditional Owners
We recognise and acknowledge Pinjarup people as the traditional owners of Yalgorup National Park.
