Mannum on the Lower Murray: Boats, Trails and Markets

Mannum is situated along broad stretches of the Lower Murray. River heritage, walking trails and trips on the river shape the ways to get to know the town and its surroundings. When planning your visit, it’s worth considering which excursions interest you and how much time you’d like to allow for them: the trails described vary in length, estimated duration and gradient.

River heritage in Mannum

The Mannum Dock Discovery Centre comprises the paddle steamer PS Marion, the side-wheel paddle steamer Mayflower and the historic Randell Dry Dock. Interactive exhibits complement the Centre; their content may change. The Randell Dry Dock is heritage-listed and is the only dry dock on the Murray–Darling river system.

The PS Marion was built in 1897 and is one of the Murray River’s most significant historic heritage vessels. Visitors can explore its decks and see the engine room. Check the latest operating details before your trip. This lets you plan your visit around the actual viewing opportunities, rather than assuming the tour is a fixed part of a day’s itinerary.

Three local historic walking trails showcase Mannum’s cultural history. They offer another way to explore the town’s history, while the Discovery Centre brings together boats and the dry dock in a shared collection of exhibits. Anyone interested in the development of the river and its shipping will find different ways to engage with Mannum’s past.

Walks by time and route profile

The Randell Walk is 2.5 kilometres long, takes an estimated one to one and a half hours, and has a steep gradient profile. The Shearer Walk is shorter at two kilometres; its estimated duration is half an hour to one hour. This trail has uphill sections. The time estimates help you compare how long each walk may take, while the respective gradients are also important for planning. Trail conditions can change due to local circumstances.

If you’re choosing between the two stated walking times, the Shearer Walk is the shorter option. For the Randell Walk, allow for the longer estimate and steep gradient profile. Both timings are estimates, not a guarantee of a specific walking time. The three historic walking trails also cover themes from Mannum’s cultural history, adding an explicitly historical focus to your choice of route.

By bike or on the water

The Murray Plains Cycle Trek starts in Mannum and runs for 54 kilometres to Sedan. The route follows existing public roads. Its start and end points make it a route connecting the two towns; the stated distance describes the route, not the time needed to ride it.

The Mannum Canoe Trail lets you explore the Murray River around Mannum by canoe or kayak. This offers a way to tour on the water in addition to the cycling route. Conditions can change, so check the latest information before your excursion. This allows you to plan around your chosen activity and the conditions it entails.

Markets and excursions in the surrounding area

The Mannum Markets take place on the first Sunday of each month at Arnold Park, near the ferries. Offerings include food and fresh produce as well as handmade jewellery, local crafts, plants and candles. What’s available may vary by date and stallholder. If you’re planning a visit to the market, check the latest event details before your trip.

The Mannum Waterfalls are located near Mannum. Access is on foot from one of two car parks. Walking trails follow Reedy Creek to the waterfalls and have moderate to steep gradients. Before setting out, check the latest trail conditions and whether the trails are suitable for the season. As well as walks in Mannum, you can choose trails in the nearby area.

Discover more destinations: Keyneton, Walker Flat

For the broader travel overview: Mid Murray Council.