If you were looking at some R&R amidst a busy work week, head to Jurong Lake Gardens for all kinds of fun. From paddling the serene lake to running the many paths and trails, there’s something for everyone if you want to get out in nature.
Jurong Lake Gardens is a vibrant outdoor destination that is Singapore’s first national gardens in the heartlands, offering scenic landscapes, well-planned trails and engaging activity spaces within one stunning park.
Beyond everyday recreation, the gardens also host community programmes and seasonal events that bring the space to life. In this blog post, we’ll look at all the ways you can enjoy the jewel of the west, Jurong Lake Gardens.
Walking and Running
The gardens have a wealth of trails and paths crisscrossing the area, many of them connected to the Park Connector Network (PCN) and offering a wide network of well-maintained paths that make walking and running enjoyable for all fitness levels. You can explore marked garden trails such as the Banyan Trail and Mempat Trail, which guide you through grasslands, wetlands and scenic lakeside boardwalks.
These routes typically take between 30 and 60 minutes and provide a refreshing mix of greenery and open water views. Runners enjoy the flat, spacious paths that allow for steady pacing, while walkers can take their time to enjoy the surroundings. With shaded stretches and clear signage, the gardens are ideal for daily exercise, strolls or peaceful morning runs.
Cycling
Cycling around Jurong Lake Gardens allows visitors to experience the park’s scale and beauty while staying active. Designated cycling routes connect the gardens to Singapore’s wider Park Connector Network, making it easy to enjoy longer rides beyond the park itself. Just be sure to pay attention to the signs, as some paths are restricted to those on foot only.
Cyclists can travel along scenic paths that skirt the lake and pass through green corridors, offering uninterrupted views and fresh air. These routes also link to national trails such as the Coast to Coast Trail, appealing to recreational riders and fitness cyclists alike.
Paddling
Passion WaVe @ Jurong Lake Gardens offers pedal-boating, kayaking and dragon boating, which makes it possible to enjoy the gardens from a different point of view. Gliding across the water provides scenic views of the surrounding greenery and urban skyline, creating a calm yet energising experience.
These water-based activities are suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers, with structured sessions and community programmes available. Paddling adds variety to outdoor recreation at the gardens, combining fitness, teamwork and nature appreciation in one memorable activity on the lake.
Family-Friendly Fun
Jurong Lake Gardens is designed with families in mind, offering engaging spaces that encourage play and exploration. Forest Ramble is an excellent feature, featuring nature-inspired play zones where children climb, balance and jump through animal-themed structures.
Around the corner, Clusia Cove provides a water play area where kids can splash and explore shallow channels safely. Open lawns invite picnics and casual games, while wide paths make stroller-friendly walks easy.
These innovative spaces allow families to spend quality time together outdoors, blending fun, learning and physical activity in a safe, natural environment that appeals to both children and adults.
Wildlife Spotting and Photography
Jurong Lake Gardens is incredibly rich with flora and fauna, making it a rewarding place for wildlife spotting and photography. You can explore freshwater swamp forests, grasslands and wetland edges that attract birds, insects and aquatic life. Areas such as Neram Streams and the open grasslands are popular for observing birds in their natural setting.
Seasonal blooms like the Pink Mempat trees also draw photographers looking to capture colourful landscapes. The combination of water, greenery and open skies creates striking compositions throughout the day.
Attending Fun Programmes
Jurong Lake Gardens regularly hosts programmes that bring the community together and add variety to each visit. Activities like Confidence on Wheels help children learn cycling skills in a safe, supportive setting, while Arts@JLG introduces performances and creative experiences within the natural landscape.
Seasonal events such as Lights by the Lake transform the gardens into an evening attraction filled with illuminated displays.
Volunteer programmes also allow visitors to support conservation and community initiatives. These organised activities make the gardens more than just a green space, turning them into a lively hub where learning, creativity and nature come together.