Lake Burley Griffin, Artificial lake in Canberra, Australia

Lake Burley Griffin is an 11-kilometre artificial lake in central Canberra, formed by damming the Molonglo River at the 33-metre Scrivener Dam. Its irregular shoreline encloses three named islands, including Aspen Island, linked to land by a footbridge. The lake averages 4 metres deep and reaches about 18 metres near the dam.

Walter Burley Griffin's 1911 plan placed a geometric lake at the city's centre, but his design was altered and work stalled until 1960, when excavation began under Prime Minister Robert Menzies. The Scrivener Dam was closed in September 1963, and the lake reached its level in April 1964 after drought-breaking rain. It was inaugurated on 17 October 1964.

The lake's name honours Walter Burley Griffin, the American architect who won the 1911 competition to design Canberra. On Aspen Island, linked by a footbridge, stands the National Carillon, a gift from Britain in 1970; its 55 bronze bells ring in recitals. The Captain Cook Memorial Jet, inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II in 1970, shoots water up to 183 metres.

The shoreline is easy to access with well-maintained paths for walkers and cyclists, with seating areas scattered throughout. The area is best explored during daylight hours when facilities are open and visibility is good.

The water holds six islands, including one where the Australian National Carillon performs regular music concerts. These performances are accessible to visitors and offer an unusual experience of hearing music reflected across the water.