Surprisingly you can get to the water. Most Melbourne catchments are fenced and access to the water is prohibited. I think you are still not supposed to swim or wade in the water.
Solar power plant
The trails goes next to a solar farm with lots of panels.
The reservoir has weird irregular shapeYou can see Melbourne City in the distanceTrail
The trail was wide most of the time. Sometimes it would get narrow.
We walked around the reservoir clockwise. I think it was good decision – we saved impressive views over the reservoir till the end.
The sign says:
Melbourne Water
Most of Melbourne’s water comes from uninhabited, forested catchments. Melbourne is one of the few cities in the world that has protected water supply catchments. Melbourne Water manages these catchments to protect our drinking water.
Our water is safe and pleasant to drink, and undergoes minimal treatment – it is better to start with the highest quality source.
A key part of Melbourne Water’s responsibility is to encourage the sustainable use of this precious resource.
Water treatment plantView from the damBirds flying low in V formation
In the heart of Victoria lies a hidden gem, quite literally, known as the Emerald to Cockatoo Rail Trail. It’s not just a hike, it’s a time machine that transports you to an era where steam trains chugged through the lush eastern Victorian landscape.
This 6-kilometer trail (and a 13km roundtrip), is brimming with history and natural beauty, beckons adventurers and history buffs alike to embark on a hike that’s unique in it’s charm.
The trail follows the historic route of the Puffing Billy Railway, once a lifeline connecting the bustling towns of Emerald and Cockatoo. Today, it serves as a haven for walkers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts seeking solace in the tranquillity of the countryside.
The personality of the Emerald to Cockatoo Rail Trail is one of nostalgia and charm. It’s as if the very essence of the steam era lingers in the air, urging you to slow down and savour each moment.
Along the way, weathered railway sleepers and remnants of old stations stand as silent witnesses to bygone days, offering glimpses into a world of yesteryears. But it’s not just about the past; the trail also boasts breathtaking natural beauty that captivates the senses.
Tall eucalyptus trees sway gently in the breeze, their leaves whispering secrets of the forest. Birdsong fills the air as native wildlife flits among the branches, adding a touch of whimsy to the journey.
Keep an eye out for colourful parrots and cheeky kookaburras that call this home too. As you meander along the trail, each bend reveals a new vista more picturesque than the last.
The Emerald Lake Park, with its tranquil waters and lush greenery, offers a perfect spot for a picnic or a moment of reflection. Take a break by the lakeside and let the serenity wash over you as you watch the world go by.
What sets this trail apart is its ability to cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re a history buff eager to delve into the railway’s past or a nature lover seeking adventure in the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone along the trail.
Families can enjoy a leisurely bike ride, while avid hikers can explore the surrounding bushland via interconnected trails. But perhaps the most charming aspect of this trail is the sense of community that permeates its atmosphere. You’ll often encounter friendly locals out for a stroll or volunteers maintaining the pathway, their passion for preserving this slice of history evident in every interaction.
It’s also dog friendly! So whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure with your canine or exploring with loved ones by your side, be prepared to be enchanted by the magic of this timeless trail.
Nestled within the enchanted landscapes of Lorne, Australia, amidst Henderson, Phantom and Won Wondah waterfalls, hides the Canyon trail! And, she is not to be missed!
Arriving at the Sheoak picnic area, approx. 2hrs from Melbourne CBD on a sunny Sunday, I was surprised to see a large parking area with only 3-4 cars parked.
The picnic area was well shaded by giant Eucalyptus trees and surrounded by dense forest. It was a large space with plenty of room for lots of people with barbecues, shelters and facilities.
The signage quite poor left me looking around and wondering if I should leave and enjoy a day by Lorne beach? My backpack, curiosity and hiking shoes however, thought we should explore as the Canyon trail had been referred by a fellow hiking buddy.
The trail began with a gentle incline, leading deeper into the forest. Sunlight filtering through the canopies above as the trail twisted its way from rugged terrain into luscious ferns.
The scent of rainforest dew and sounds of bird life intensified as the path continually changed.
From crossing babbling streams, to stepping on bouldering rocks, my senses heightened unsure what we would come across next, as the sound of a waterfall continued to intensify.
Stopping to embrace the diverse geological landscape, showcasing the unique formations sculpted by centuries of erosion, I found myself completely mesmerised.
Moss, ancient ferns, wildflowers all taking refuge in the crevices and cracks of these rocks, while birds and small mammals had made their homes amidst the sheltered nooks and crannies.
From sighting kookaburras, wallabies, and many other different bird species, to crossing creeks, and looking at waterfalls. This spot was truly unique and is definitely one of my favourite trails to date.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual adventurer, exploring this trail promises incredible diversity and really showcases Australia’s flora and fauna beauty.
We had a blast last Saturday! Joined by a friend, we set off on the Red Bluff Sea Cliffs walk, starting from the car park near Hampton Beach.
The weather was perfect — sunny and warm.
Walking on the beach was tough with the soft sand, but it added to the adventure. After about an hour, we made it to the cliffs, which were pretty cool.
Red Bluff Sea Cliffs
The Red Bluff Sea Cliffs are such a neat spot, offering a really interesting landscape. We felt like adventurers as we wandered through.
A highlight was spotting the sunken ship HMVS Cerberus at Black Rock, a super cool piece of history.
HMVS Cerberus
On the way back, we took a different path, turning back at the Half Moon Bay Sailing Club. Instead of the Bay trail, we strolled along an unnamed trail by the bushes, which gave us awesome views of the bay and even a glimpse of the Melbourne City skyline in the distance.
We covered a total of 9 km in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. It was an awesome walk, and we’d totally recommend it for anyone looking for a fun outing in nature!
It was a cloudy and windy summer’s day, typical of unpredictable Victorian weather, and my friends and I had decided to embark on a short hike.
Phillip Island is a popular holiday destination, located a two-hour drive south of Melbourne.
The island is well-known for its Penguin Parade, where you can watch cute Little Penguins returning to their burrows.
But the island is also home to beautiful natural attractions and hikes.
The Pinnacles at Cape Woolamai are unique, granite formations, set against a backdrop of wild waves from the Bass Strait (the ocean separating Tasmania from mainland Australia).
As this was day a trip for us, the walk was short enough to fit into our schedule, but also a great option for photogenic coastal views.
To get to the start of the walk, search “Woolamai Surf Beach” or “Cape Woolamai Walk” into Google Maps. This will take you to a large carpark with toilets and a kiosk.
One thing to be prepared for on coastal walks is the strong wind. It was a mild day in Melbourne, but the moment we got out of the car on Phillip Island, the winds made it a few degrees cooler.
Whilst we were reading the board at the entry to the beach, some helpful people who were returning from the walk told us to head down to the beach, and walk left about 100 metres.
Although the day’s weather was temperamental (mostly cloudy, but with occasional breaks of sun), the short walk on the beach felt peaceful, as there was hardly anyone else there. Although online photos indicate the water is much more spectacular in colour on a warm, sunny day.
After a short walk on the beach, we reached a staircase, which according to Google Maps is called “Magiclands Steps”. The short, wooden staircase takes you back up to a path amongst the coastal scrub, with an elevated view of the beach.
From this point, you can also already see a slight side profile of the headland where The Pinnacles are.
The track is straightforward from here to the Pinnacles. It’s great that the shrub is low, you can enjoy the Cape Woolamai views all along the way.
Before you reach the Pinnacles, there is a section that breaks away to the right from the main path. It’s a nice place to stop and enjoy the views as it overlooks a beach – maps labels this one as “Cowrie Patch Lookout”.
Shortly after this, you reach the Pinnacles. There’s a bench seat if you need to take a breather, or simply take in the views.
Apparently, there is a steep track down to the beach, which we didn’t notice, but it’s a haven for landscape photographers who like to capture the rock formation at sunrise or sunset.
As you continue, the path continues on a coastal route with more benches and views – only this time it looks back toward the mainland (Kilcunda direction). It gives you a great perspective of where Cape Woolamai/Phillip Island is located.
From here, you can take the longer route back via Old Granite Quarry or Cleeland Bight Beach. I believe the entire walk would come to 8km+ if you take this way. However, we took an inland path back to the staircase going down to the Woolamai Surf Beach.
Overall, the walk should take 1.5-2 hours. The track was easy to follow with a few subtle inclines and declines as you walk through the natural landscape of the Cape. We also sighted a few animals like lizards and wallabies – make sure to keep an eye out for snakes if it’s a warm day.
It is a great walk for beginner hikers, or if you’re not in the mood for something difficult. If you are with people who just want to see the Pinnacles you could turn around after you reach the lookout and head back to the carpark the way you came.
Although it was cloudy, it was good hiking weather, and I look forward to trying a few more walks on the island.
I recently checked a major item off my bucket list – a trek to the iconic 12 Apostles along the mesmerising Great Ocean Road. Strap in for the ride as I spill the details of this coastal escapade that left me in absolute awe. Spoiler alert: nature’s wonders are even more breathtaking up close!
Chapter 1: The Road Less Travelled
Kicking things off, the drive along the Great Ocean Road starting from Melbourne was a journey in itself. The wind in my hair, the rhythmic waves crashing against the shore, and the twists and turns of the road set the perfect stage for the adventure that awaited me. I might have stopped at every scenic lookout – who could blame me?
Heading west out of Melbourne towards the Twelve Apostles, your journey will lead you across the West Gate Bridge and onto Princes Highway in the direction of Geelong. As you approach Geelong, a choice awaits – you can opt for the inland route towards Colac or set your course for Torquay.
Opting for the Torquay route treats you to a picturesque drive along the Great Ocean Road. This scenic choice guides you past some of Victoria’s most stunning beaches, dramatic coastal cliffs, lush rainforests, and delightful seaside towns. On the other hand, if you go for the inland option, be prepared for a landscape dominated by an incessant sight of farms.
Chapter 2: The First Glimpse
And then, there they were – the magnificent 12 Apostles! Standing tall against the relentless ocean, these limestone stacks seemed like sentinels guarding the secrets of the Southern Ocean. The feeling of seeing them for the first time is hard to put into words – it’s like witnessing a masterpiece crafted by nature.
Fun fact: The name Twelve Apostles was given to them, you guessed it, for tourism purposes. The number has varied over time due to ongoing erosion. Starting with nine rock stacks at the beginning of the 21st century, now eight stacks remain.
Chapter 3: A Stroll Along the Clifftops
Deciding to get up close and personal, I took a stroll along the clifftops. Don’t forget to make use of the walkways as much as possible, as these help you get some of the best views of the apostles, making it possible to even get quite close to some of them!
The sheer force of the wind, the sound of the waves below, and the panoramic views made it a sensory overload. It felt like being on the edge of the world, with nothing but the vastness of the ocean stretching out in front of me.
Chapter 4: Sunset Magic
When the sun was about to go down, I planted myself at a prime spot to catch the sunset over the Apostles. Let me tell you, watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow on these majestic formations, was nothing short of magic. The colours danced across the sky, and for a moment, time stood still.
Chapter 5: The Night Sky’s Symphony
Not one to call it a night too early, I stuck around to witness the stars come out to play. Away from city lights, the night sky was a canvas of twinkling wonders. I didn’t expect to have the company of a few fellow hikers and visitors joining me to experience that as well. The sound of the ocean below and the sight of the Milky Way above – it was a symphony for the senses.
Nature’s Grand Finale
As I left the 12 Apostles behind, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. Nature, in all its glory, had put on a grand show. The rugged coastline, the towering stacks, the sunset, and the starlit sky – it was a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones written by the earth itself.
Note: If you have some more time to spare, consider staying overnight along the Great Ocean Road. A night’s stay not only breaks up your journey but also prevents driving during the risky twilight hours. There are numerous lodging choices in towns like Port Campbell and Lorne, offering an opportunity to make the most of your additional time.
Distance from Melbourne: 275-285 km
Distance from the nearest town Port Campbell: 10 km
Just 6 kilometers from Dunkeld, Mount Abrupt proved to be a thrilling challenge for our Sunday hike. The Grampians has always been our go-to for weekend getaways, with its picturesque views and amazing hikes. We were no strangers to the mountains, having already accomplished the nearby Piccaninny.
Mount Abrupt truly lives up to its name on this 6.3km hike. A flat start of roughly 800 meters quickly becomes a steep climb, offering a challenge that’ll keep you on your toes. The hike may be tough, but the scenery that surrounds you constantly changes and is nothing short of stunning – it’ll make it all worth it in the end.
The view from the top of the summit is unparalleled, showcasing the vastness of nature at its most stunning. From the peak, the Grampians can be seen clearly aswell as surrounding towns and farmland.
We stopped at the summit for lunch and spoke to some other hikers, all of whom were friendly and up for a chat.
When braving Mount Abrupt, don’t forget to pack some delicious treats to munch on or enjoy a hearty lunch. To fully appreciate the journey, it’s crucial to take your time and relish each moment. Our trek lasted around 3 hours, and we made sure to bring sandwiches, tea and water.
The Grampians is a nature lover’s dream, where beauty and adventure await at every turn. Mount Abrupt is the perfect embodiment of this charm, offering a unique blend of heights and nature’s awe-inspiring beauty, while also being a challenging climb. It is a destination that appeals to everyone, from seasoned hikers to beginners, and has a special place for those looking for a wilderness retreat. It’s an experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression as you traverse the wild terrain of the Grampians. Mount Abrupt is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with Western Victorias vast landscape.
Nestled in the heart of Victoria, Australia, lies a picturesque region that has something for all. There’s trails for a casual stroll and there’s more technical, dog-friendly trails for those looking for a bit more of a challenge. Welcome to the Macedon Ranges, with its rolling hills, lush forests, and charming township and wineries. It’s an area that offers an idyllic setting for a leisurely walk that soothes the soul.
Having recently embarked on a hike last week, I’m keen to share what makes this area one of my favourites. I set out with my border Collie to explore one of my favourite parts of the state.
The air was crisp – it often is in Macedon – and I was on my way. I started my walk near the iconic Hanging Rock, home of many rock climbers and also a fun local half marathon, which centres on a geological marvel that has intrigued visitors for generations. The ancient rock formations and the lush greenery surrounding them painted a mesmerizing picture, reminding me of the timeless beauty of nature.
I chose the easier trail, clocking in at a bit under 4km for a roundtrip. Don’t let the shorter distance fool you, this is still challenging. There’s some steep inclines and a couple of dense sections. Luckily, it’s all marked and it’s easy to get around. It’s also very biologically diverse. I even saw a cat wandering the trail, with a harness on and slumped over her owners shoulder. It’s a hike that doesn’t discriminate, I can tell you that now! And as we ventured deeper into the wilderness, my energetic border collie, known for his curiosity, stumbled across a kangaroo lounging in a clearing. The kangaroo, seemingly unperturbed, regarded my dog with a mix of curiosity and mild amusement.
Observing these creatures in their natural habitat reminded me of the importance of preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystems, a lesson echoed by the conservation efforts in the Macedon Ranges.
Continuing my stroll, I ventured into the heart of a dense forest. The tall, ancient trees formed a canopy overhead, filtering the sunlight and casting playful shadows on the forest floor. The air was infused with the scent of moss and earth, creating an immersive experience that enveloped my senses. I marvelled at the resilience of nature, as the forest seemed to breathe with life, showcasing the wonders of biodiversity.
The view near the carpark is one to die for. It overlooks west and away from the city, to rolling hills and a still and amazing countryside.
My walk in the Macedon Ranges was not merely a physical journey; it was a soulful experience that allowed me to reconnect with nature in its purest form. The serene atmosphere, the diverse flora and fauna, and the breathtaking landscapes left an indelible mark on my heart. As I concluded my walk, I carried with me a newfound appreciation for the natural world and a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Macedon Ranges.
In a world often bustling with activity, the Macedon Ranges stand as a sanctuary of peace, inviting all who venture here to embrace the tranquillity and marvel at the wonders of our natural heritage. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone seeking solace in the beauty of the outdoors, a walk in the Macedon Ranges promises an unforgettable experience.
First, I would like to acknowledge the Wurundjeri peoples of the Kulin Nations as the traditional owners of Warrandyte State Park. I want to pay my respects to the past, present and any Indigenous people among us today. I also want to acknowledge that I have profited and benefited from stolen land and that Indigenous people were never ceded sovereignty. Finally, I would like to acknowledge again the Wurundjeri clan of the Kulin Nations the traditional owners of Naarm where I sit and write this blog today and I would like to acknowledge the traditional owners of the many lands my readers come from.
I had never been to Warrandyte State Forest before September this year although I had been to Warrandyte River many times. I was also not aware of the significant gold history in the area, my partner and I were delighted by how many tunnels and mine shafts we got to investigate throughout the trail. This is the official site of Victoria’s first gold discovery in 1851. Interestingly prospecting for gold is still permitted here as long as you follow the regulations. We parked the car at Whipstick Gully Rd where there are picnic tables and informative signs about the gold mining history.
The carpark at Whipstick Gully Rd.The informative signs at the beginning of the hike.The informative signs at the beginning of the hike.
After passing the gate and the signs underneath the shelter in the west we took the trail going to the east. This took us to the Victory Mine after hiking only 150m. We turned around and went back to the main intersection where there were two trail options. We chose to go straight up the hill onto Whipstick Gully Track. The first 500m has an elevation gain of 100m, it’s a wide dusty dirt road so very manageable. Along the sides of the road I saw many Chocolate Lilies in flower. This time of year they are everywhere, a delicacy first enjoyed by Indigenous people. To uncover the tubor, carefully use a digging stick around the base of the plant without breaking off the stem. Once uncovered you will find a small bulb that is brown with dirt, scrape the dirt off with your nail until it is completely white and enjoy. The taste is similar to potato.
Whipstick Gully TrackThe purple flowers are the Chocolate Lilies.
We came across a sign that did say no dogs in this state park so be aware this area is not pet friendly. Here there was road access, called Tunnel St, with parking spots. The trail changed name at this point to Wildcat Gully Track, we continued hiking for another 170m to find Geraghty’s Tunnel. You can enter this tunnel and walk a short way, definitely recommend a torch or phone light as it was pitch black inside. We continued hiking along for 500m until we came across the Anderson Creek crossing and could see a carpark on the other side. The creek crossing was extremely shallow and also had a few rocks to hop across. We were not interested in checking this out so we turned around and hiked for 180m to find a narrow wooden boardwalk travelling west towards the summit. Take care not to miss this trail.
Geraghty’s TunnelGeraghty’s Tunnel Informative SignAnderson Creek
We hiked along here contouring Fourth Hill for 450m and found some old mine shafts. Then turned northeast onto a different trail. It was only 4m before we turned north onto Johnson’s Track. This was the most challenging part of the entire day, 21m elevation gain in the space of 10m. The trail mostly disappeared in this section and its very rocky. You can avoid Johnson’s Track and stay on the one before which joins Betton Track if you want to stick to an easier route. The summit was quite disappointing, very overgrown so we could not see a view at all. This lasted for about 250m until we arrived at an intersection and back onto a dirt road which was the Betton Track.
Mine Shaft Informative signMine ShaftJohnson TrackFourth Hill Summit
Betton Track turned into Brackenbury Track and continued reasonably flat. After 190m we took a sharp southeast turn onto Waterman Track. We hiked along here for only 120m before turning onto Bruce Bence Track. In all honesty we walked right passed this turn off and had to backtrack a couple of metres to find it. This 400m trail descended down towards the Whipstick Gully Rd with an elevation loss of 60m. Although this day walk was only short the hilly terrain and maze of tracks kept us on our toes and made us work up a sweat. We thoroughly enjoyed our day trip to Warrandyte State Forest.
First, I would like to acknowledge the Taungurung peoples of the Kulin Nations as the traditional owners of Rubicon Valley. I want to pay my respects to the past, present and any Indigenous people among us today. I also want to acknowledge that I have profited and benefited from stolen land and that Indigenous people were never ceded sovereignty. Finally, I would like to acknowledge again the Wurundjeri clan of the Kulin Nations the traditional owners of Naarm where I sit and write this blog today and I would like to acknowledge the traditional owners of the many lands my readers come from.
I have often been to Rubicon Valley, but it holds a particular special memory for me. The last time I went camping with my grandparents many years ago. Which is especially important to me now because my Pa is not with us anymore. Although so close to Eildon and within the town of Thornton the surrounding Rubicon State Forest is absolutely stunning and the flowing river is calming. To begin the circuit you can park your car at the Lower Rubicon Power Station. Begin by walking across the road bridge that crosses the Rubicon River and walk onto the private property of the Outdoor Education Group here you make a sharp right turn onto the southeast facing Cicada Walking Trail.
The road bridge after the Lower Rubicon Power StationThe sign to look for directly after the bridge.The beginning of the trail.
I did this hike solo recently, I began at the bridge described above. The beauty of this circuit is that you can begin in multiple places, I will point out these spots along the way. The trail quickly joined a wider pathway travelling south east handrailing the Rubicon River. After the first 1km of hiking I came across a trail intersection on a hill and I turned east, inland away from the river, the elevation changes here as well. I began to walk uphill for the next 1km gaining 380m of elevation. This gradient is not overly steep but does work up a sweat, luckily the land gradually undulates and twists and turns above deep gullies of ferns and eucalypts. The path continues quiet compact and wide although I did run into some slippery, muddy sections which were a challenge with my current injury but for most people would be super easy to navigate.
First trail transitionThe wider pathwayThe intersectionThe wider, undulating pathwayMud I found along the way.
At this point the trail descends about 50m of elevation into a S bend over 300m of distance until the trail is handrailing the Rubicon River once again. The next 700m of trail is relatively flat. I crossed multiple bridges to get to the other side and join the Kendalls Link Trail. I chose not to continue on the Cicada Walking Trail to the Boys Camping Area since I have already been there many times. At the Boys Camping Area there is car access and a drop toilet so this could be an alternative start and finish spot if appropriate for you.
The second bridge.The third bridge.The fourth and most magnificent bridge along the way.
I continued hiking in a northwest direction on the Kendalls Link Track for 1.2km. I handrailed the river once again, this side of the river is much closer to the road and feels less remote. I traversed over a bridge and then a boardwalk before arriving at the sign for Kendalls Camping Area. Just before I entered the campground there is a subtle bend in the river, this can be a fun swimming hole but only enjoy it when the river levels are not too high and if your a confident swimmer, please take care. I hiked through the various campsites and picnic areas for 400m before joining up with the Cicada Walking Trail once again. I have camped here many times before, it is well looked after, with many large campsites where campfires are allowed in allocated fireplaces, theres car access, and drop toilet facilities. I would highly recommend a weekend away here. This could also be another start and finish point for the hike.
The boardwalk.The 5th bridge on this hike.I came through this fence and turned around to see this sign once arriving at Kendalls Camping Area.The largest campsite at Kendalls Camping Area right beside the Kendalls Link Track.
Once on the Cicada Walking Trail again I only had 1km left of the 6km hike. This part of the trail is further away from Rubicon River and closer to the road with a subtle decline of 50metres. I crossed the final bridge and took in the view of the Lower Rubicon Power Station now having come full circle. On the map it shows the trail ends here, but you can either walk down a very steep slope towards the Power Station or continue northwest along the road and then turn northeast down the gravel road towards the Power Station. I took the latter option. This area is known as the Rubicon Valley Historic Area where there is so much history and nature to explore (including waterfalls, trestle bridges, aqueducts etc.) making it the perfect weekend get away.
A view from the bridge above the Lower Rubicon Power Station, and the pipeline going down towards it.A view from the bridge below the Lower Rubicon Power Station pipeline.A view from the trail at the second kilometre mark during the hilly section.Natures simplistic beauty.The river was quiet fast flowing this visit.Another section of the river view from the trail.The water level was higher than usual.
