Trail Navigator Blog – Nice walks in Victoria, Australia

Alfred Nicholas & George Tindale Memorial Gardens, Sherbrooke

Nestled in the beautiful hills of the Dandenong Ranges is one of Victoria’s most charming short hikes. This loop starts and ends at the stunning Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden. The trail offers a feast for the senses and a much-needed escape from daily life. You will find a perfect mix of calm forest paths, colourful leaves, and elegant garden design.

Hollow Tree, Sherbrooke

Start your walk by parking at Alfred Nicholas Gardens on Sherbrooke Road. There’s usually plenty of parking, even on weekends. The earlier you arrive, the more peaceful it feels. Once you enter the gardens, it’s like stepping into another world. Tall Mountain Ash trees rise above you, while winding paths invite you deeper into the landscape.

Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens

The gardens were once part of Alfred Nicholas’s Burnham Beeches Estate, and today they are lovingly maintained as public parklands. A highlight here is the ornate Boathouse, quietly sitting by the lower lake. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the Dandenongs for good reason. On a calm day, the reflections in the water are truly magical. It’s a place that slows your breathing and helps you forget about your troubles.

From the Boathouse, head back uphill and exit the gardens onto Sherbrooke Road. Be careful as you walk a short distance along the roadside. Lloyd’s Track will then guide you through Sherbrooke Forest. This part of the hike is quieter and less manicured than the gardens. You will see towering gums, soft fern undergrowth, and you might even spot a lyrebird.

Bridge, Sherbrooke

Continue along the trail until you reach George Tindale Memorial Gardens, another hidden gem that often gets overlooked. Entry is free, and it’s well worth stepping inside. The gardens here have a more curated, botanical feel, with winding paths surrounded by rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, and maples, all thriving in the mountain air. If you visit in autumn, the leaves put on a colourful show, while spring brings vibrant flowers in every direction. Even in winter, the garden has a gentle, misty charm.

After enjoying your time in George Tindale Memorial Gardens, return to the track and start looping back to Alfred Nicholas Gardens. The return leg of the walk is mostly downhill or flat. You will find plenty of shady forest to keep you cool even on warmer days.

Plan for about two hours to complete the loop. While the trail is only around 6km, you’ll want to stop and soak it all in. It’s not a race; it’s a journey through some of the Dandenongs’ finest natural and cultivated beauty.

This walk reminds us how lucky we are in Victoria to have such beautiful natural spots just a short drive from Melbourne. If you haven’t yet explored Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens and the surrounding area, do yourself a favour. It’s the perfect place to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the world around you.

June 22, 2025
Exploring Wilsons Prom: Big Drift, Squeaky Beach, Wildlife Walk, and Glennie Lookout

Australia’s Wilsons Promontory National Park is full of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and beautiful beaches. This walking hike is the perfect choice for anyone who loves nature mixed in with hiking adventures. You will get to experience all kinds of terrain in this area, starting from the expected beaches and bushes typical to the country to the unexpected areas full of sand dunes.

Recently we travelled through the Big Drift, Squeaky Beach, the Wildlife Walk, and Glennie Lookout towards the southern end of the national park.

Big Drift: Teleport to a Dessert

We start our hike at the Big Drift, an otherworldly expanse of sand dunes that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. It’s just a short walk from the Stockyard Campground, but don’t be fooled by the ease of access—the soft sand and dramatic terrain offer a decent workout. The hike was so steep that sometimes I had to get on all fours to get to the top! But the view from there is worth all the sweat.

Make sure to bring plenty of water and a camera. The sweeping dunes create a breathtaking landscape, perfect for photographers or anyone looking to absorb all the beauty around.

You will truly feel that you aren’t in Australia anymore and have teleported to a distant desert or a different planet!

💡Trail Navigator Tip: Climb to one of the highest dunes for panoramic views that stretch to the coastline on clear days.

Squeaky Beach: Another White Marvel

Next up we headed to Squeaky Beach. The white quartz sand here is so fine that it makes a distinctive squeak underfoot—and that’s how it got its quirky name. It’s not just fun to walk on but also a visual treat. The turquoise waters and dramatic boulders make this beach nothing short of a postcard-perfect spot.

Take your time to relax, dip your toes in the water, or even go for a swim if the weather favours you.

Pro tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch with the soothing sound of waves in the background.

Wildlife Walk: Meet the Roos!

This offers a vibrant break after all the whites and blues your eyes have taken in. After enjoying Squeaky Beach, head to the Wildlife Walk, a gentle trail with zero difficulty level that delivers exactly what it promises. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and the occasional wombat lounging in the shade. It’s an ideal spot for wildlife lovers and families with kids—the path is flat, well-maintained, and buzzing with life.

The best time for this walk is early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. Don’t forget to walk quietly and respectfully; after all, we’re visiting their home.

Glennie Lookout: The Grand Finale

Our final destination was Glennie Lookout, a viewpoint that offers wonderful scenery of the coastline and nearby islands. The trail to Glennie Lookout is moderately challenging, but the reward at the top is well worth the effort.

On a clear day, you can see as far as the Glennie Islands, with the endless ocean as the backdrop. It’s a perfect spot to soak in the natural beauty that makes Wilsons Prom so special. If you time your hike right, catching the sunset here is an unforgettable experience.

Practical Tips for the Hike

– Plan your day: This route can easily take up most of the day, so start early to make the most of it.

– Pack essentials: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

– Check the weather: Conditions can change quickly, so dress in layers and be prepared for anything.

– Respect nature: Stick to the designated trails!

Wrapping It Up

From the vast sands of the Big Drift to the amazing views at Glennie Lookout, this hike is a must-do to experience Wilsons Promontory’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, this route offers a little bit of everything. Hit the trails and create your own memories in one of Australia’s most iconic national parks.

December 12, 2024
Apollo Bay to Shelly Beach Walk

We visited Apollo Bay for the Melbourne Cup long weekend. On Monday we decided to walk to Shelly Beach. We started right from our Airbnb place at Apollo Bay.

We walked on the Great Ocean Walk trail along the Great Ocean Road first. After crossing the Barham River we went down to the beach.

Beautiful Marengo beach

We continued and walked on the rocks after Marengo beach.

Bizarre rock formations next to Marengo beach

Rocky flat surface

Another nice beach near Marengo

We didn’t see any suitable passage back to the trail so we kept walking on a couple more beaches. Eventually we reached a cliff with rocks very close to the ocean. It was not safe to go through them and we didn’t want to go back all the way to Marengo beach.

We decided to scramble up the cliff and try to find our way to the trail there. The trail was close but it was thick and thorny bush between us and the trail. My wife told us that she couldn’t go back down the cliff so we slowly moved through the bush.

We were fortunate to avoid blackberry and surprised some people on the trail emerging from the bush.

Very thorny bush

Great Ocean Walk trail

Views from the top were excellent.

From time to time the trail would go down to the beach.

We reached the Shelly beach picnic area and had lunch there. We saw 3 koalas up in the trees. Unfortunately they were too high for a good shot (I mean photo shot, of course).

We walked on the Great Ocean Walk trail to the Elliot River crossing. There we turned north and walked on the rocks towards Shelly beach.

This is where I realised my mistake of not checking the tide. It was high tide and there was not much space on the rocks making moving forward difficult.

At one point a sudden wave caught me and my wife so we got drenched from the waist.

We walked on the Shelly beach and further until we reached more rocks. We met 3 girls that told us it would be hard to reach the next passage from the beach to the trail. They also told us that the high tide left them stranded on a beach for 2 hours.

That’s when we decided to go back to Shelly beach and go back to the trail there.

We had enough beach walking for the day so we returned on the trail.

Nice homes next to the trail

Overall it was a great day walk. We walked 19.4 km total. It took us 6 hours.

We finished the day with excellent dinner at the Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op.

This walk on the Trail Navigator Victoria: Apollo Bay to Shelly Beach

November 10, 2024
Exploring Warburton: A Picturesque Hike from Redwood Forest along O’Shannassy Aqueduct

Tucked into Victoria’s scenic Yarra Valley, Warburton is around 75km from the Melbourne CBD and is best accessible by car.

The picturesque town is popular with hikers, families and picnic goers offering beautiful forests, riverside trails, and towering redwoods.

This hike takes you through some of the area’s most iconic natural wonders, including the Redwood Forest, the banks of the Yarra River, and the historic O’Shannassy Aqueduct. A mostly flat trail, this hike is suitable for all fitness levels.

Starting Point: Cement Creek Carpark

This hike begins at the Cement Creek Carpark, which has a large parking capacity but can still get very busy during peak periods.

From here, you’re immediately surrounded by the spectacular Redwood Forest.

The Redwood Forest

The Redwood Forest hosts a magnificent stand of Coast Redwoods planted in the 1930s. Although they’re not native to Australia, these trees have thrived in the rich soils, creating a unique natural landmark. As you step into the forest, the temperature seems to drop, and the air fills with a piney, earthy scent. Rays of sunlight filter down through the tall trunks, casting a soft glow that makes the forest feel enchanted.

Many hikers find themselves pausing here, taking a moment to walk amongst the trees and stopping for the obligatory photo or two. The sheer height of the redwoods makes you feel small in the best possible way, offering a quiet moment of reflection and connection with nature. The forest floor, covered with soft needles and rays of light, is a tranquil escape from the everyday.

Following the Yarra River

After soaking in the Redwood Forest’s beauty, the trail leads you back toward the Yarra River. The Yarra snakes gently through Warburton, providing a beautiful, calming presence for the next leg of the hike. The trail here is mostly flat, making it an ideal stretch for a relaxed walk – but if you’re feeling adventurous, why not attempt a river log crossing!

Along this part of the trail, you might spot local wildlife including lyrebirds, kookaburras, and perhaps even a platypus. You will have to raise your voice to talk to your friends and family in order to be heard over the piercing cicadas which come out during the warmer months.

O’Shannassy Aqueduct

Next, the hike leads you to the O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail (around 10 minutes from Redwood Forrest), a flat path that follows the former aqueduct built in 1914 to carry water to Melbourne. This historic trail offers a window into the region’s history and an easy walking path through a stunning forest landscape. The aqueduct itself is no longer in use, but it remains a scenic and peaceful trail, with lush green surroundings and frequent views of the Yarra Ranges in the distance.

Returning to Cement Creek Carpark

After walking around six kilometres along the O’Shannassy Aqueduct, it’s time to turn around and walk back the same track to the Cement Creek Carpark, making it around 14km all up. If you’re feeling fit, you can walk further along the track! There are loop options to return to Cement Road, but be careful as they involve walking on a main road.

Back at the carpark, you can take a moment to stretch, reflect on the journey… even have a well deserved picnic. The Warburton hike offers a unique combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and peaceful landscape

Warburton Hiking Tips

• Wear sturdy footwear: The trail is mostly flat, but some sections can be uneven.
• Bring water and snacks: Although the hike is relatively gentle, it’s still 14km, so you’ll want to stay hydrated and energised.
• Protect against the sun and insects: There is plenty of shade, sunscreen is still a good idea however, as well as insect repellent to ward off all the pesky bugs!
• Take it slow in the Redwood Forest: This part of the hike is a real gem, so take your time to enjoy the surroundings and soak it all in.
• Plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon: Warburton’s beauty makes it a very popular area during peak times. Pick your time to get a good carpark and have the Forest more to yourself.

November 6, 2024
Two Bays walking track – Arthurs Seat to Cape Shank

When my friend suggested we do this hike I was like YES PLEASE! From amazing green scenery to beautiful dams with ducks quacking, going from insane views of Port Phillip Bay on day 1 to views of the wild ocean on day 2. This walk is located on the Mornington Peninsula.

I was lucky enough to have stunning weather on my journey. A perfect 22 degrees and sunny for day 1 at least, day 2 we were teased by some rain and clouds.

The first 2km of this hike if you are starting at Authors Seat is all up hills. With 17kg packs on and stiff legs this was a struggle. However, the views at the top of Authors Seat were beautiful and well worth it. The stairs are paved and not too difficult to climb however there where quite a few. Along the stairs there was multiple spots to take photos with stunning views over the Mornington Peninsula.

After smashing out the first stint of this track, it turned to be quite a nice walk. Lots of greenery, and flat nicely kept tracks suitable for single file walking.

The first leg of this walk if you are camping overnight at lightwood camp site is around 16km and leg 2 is around 10km so coming together is a 26km walk and is possible to be walked in 1 day.

Its not just the amazing landscape that was in full spring bloom which I loved but all the birds chirping away and seeing lots of kangaroos grazing.

Along the track there were also boot wash stations positioned throughout to stop the spread of fungi and diseases in Greens Bush. Greens Bush alone is a fantastic walk that you could do in 2 hours if your not up for the 2 day hike

After the first day of walking, we arrived at Lightwood campsite. This campsite has 5 designated camping spots with benches to cook and sit on. There was a drop toilet with lots of toilet paper and was surprisingly clean. There is no drinking water however there is bore/tank water that can be used to wash up.

There was no reception at the camp site which was quite nice but recommend downloading a movie or bringing some cards to play to keep you occupied. But if needed you can walk up the hill at the campsite and get a couple bars of reception. There are no bookings needed. On the night I was there the campsite was almost filled with 3 other groups camping there.

Day 2 of the walk was quite easy; it was nice and flat with well-kept dirt trails. The second leg was mainly walking through bushland in comparison to leg 1 where there was a little walking on roads needed. You will have amazing views of paddocks and land with beautiful trees, rivers and wildlife. There were multiple places to stop and eat lunch.

When arriving at Bushrangers Bay there are stunning rock pools that you can swim in on low tide. ONLY ON LOW TIDE! But unfortunately, it was not for us. When finishing the walk and arriving onto Cape Shank light house there was stunning views of the ocean.

As someone who is not an experienced walker I 100% recommend doing this walk even if you only do snippets of it the whole track is gorgeous filled with so many beautiful views and open spaces.

October 30, 2024
A Spectacular Scenic Hike – Olinda, Victoria

Olinda is located in Victoria’s outer east and is much loved by hikers and nature lovers.

The town is located around 40km from the Melbourne CBD and is easiest to get to by car.

The peaceful small town is also well known for its unique cafes, art culture and relaxed hippie vibe.

One of the most picturesque hiking trails in the region is a return loop which begins at Woolrich Lookout and winds it was through the R.J. Hamer Arboretum.

This hiking track offers amazing views, tranquil forests and lots of wildlife.

Starting at Woolrich Lookout

With plenty of parking, Woolrich Lookout is a perfect starting point for a hike.

When you get out of your car, you will instantly see a spectacular tree line and the beautiful Yarra Valley below.

The lookout is located on the edge of the Arboretum and offers a great opportunity to pause and take in the beauty of the Victorian landscape.

From the lookout, the track leading to R.J. Hamer Arboretum is easily accessible and follows a descent into a lush dense forest.

The journey through R.J. Hamer Arboretum

Established in the 1970s originally as a pine plantation, The R.J. Hamer Arboretum now covers more than 200 acres.

‘Arboretum’ means ‘a place for trees’ in Latin, and lots of trees you will find!
Along the track you will see over 150 tree species which offer spectacular colours depending on the season you are hiking.

In autumn, the Arboretum is a golden hue with leaves crunching under every step. During spring, the forest bursts to life in vibrant greens. The peacefulness makes it an ideal retreat for a leisurely hike and the trees provide a lot of shade which allows hiking possible even in warmer months.

Animal highlights along the trail

A lot of Australian birdlife can be seen along the trail including native parrots, cockatoos, and kookaburras. It’s also possible to see lyrebirds and echidnas on rare occasions, and the open spaces are littered with often curious kangaroos.

Wrapping up the hike

This hike is considered a moderate difficulty level. With an elevation of just over 300 metres, the inclines are gradual making the route suitable for most fitness levels. The loop takes around 7km and about 2 – 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and how many times you stop to take in the beautiful scenery.

The trail offers a beautiful blend of nature and serenity making it perfect for solo hikers, families and small groups. Don’t forget your camera!

If you’re feeling fit, you can extend your hike by exploring some of the many connecting trails which can offer more challenging terrain but at the same time equally stunning views.

Some tracks are also suitable for mountain bike riding and are shared with hikers.

Dogs unfortunately are not allowed in the national park.

With picnics tables and BBQ areas, the Arboretum it’s also a perfect place to stop for a leisurely lunch to take in the surrounds and disconnect from the everyday bustle of life.

October 12, 2024
Long weekend in Grampians – Mt Rosea Loop

We visited Grampians National Park on grand final long weekend in September. We stayed at the YHA Grampians at Halls Gap which was great.

On Saturday we drove to MacKenzie Falls. The trail to falls was short but it was very busy. After lunch at the picnic area next to the carpark we decided to tackle 10.5 km Mount Rose Loop.

We started from the Rosea Carpark and followed the loop in a anticlockwise direction on Mt Rosea Track.

The sign reads:

Plan and prepare

The Grampians Peaks Trail is a multi-day long distance walk. Plan carefully for your overnight hike and do not attempt unless prepared.

For further information, maps or to book a campsite call into Brambuk the National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap, phone 13 1963 or visit parks.vic.gov.au

The trail started as ascending dirt track:

Trail

… but soon became a series of a large rock steps:

Rock step

After about 30 minutes of ascending we started getting great views.

Rocks

More rocks

Finally we reached the summit. By this time clouds covered the sun, it was cold and windy. However the views were fantastic.

View from Mt Rosea

We continued on Mt Rosea Track, turned left to the Grampians Peak Trail and left again to the Burma Track.

We were walking through the forest now.

Trail in the forest

It was much warmer because there was less wind.

The final route segment was on the Silverband Road.

Overall it was a quite challenging hike. We walked 11 km for about 3 hours. We were pretty tired by the end and eager to get back to our car.

Trail Name Mount Rosea Loop
Distance 11 km
Estimated Time 3 hours
Grade 4
Type Circuit
Park Grampians National Park
Access 2WD (no dogs)

October 6, 2024
Experiencing the Beautiful Mount Macedon Ranges through Forest Glade and Hanging Rock
If you live in Melbourne and are looking to explore something natural not that far from the city, then the Forest Glade Gardens and the Hanging Rock are great choices – with the former being a relatively easy walk rather than a proper hike and the latter being a trail of easy-to-moderate difficulty.

Start Your Journey with the Not-So-Challenging Yet Vibrant Forest Glade

Just one hour drive away from Melbourne CBD, Forest Glade is perfect if you aren’t in the mood to challenge yourself to a challenging hike or trail. This place, despite being quite accessible, rewards you with the most colourful experience you can hope for – with its 14.5-acre expanse that wouldn’t let you get bored.

All through your journey, you’ll witness vibrant flora and lust greenery throughout the trail. It’s hard to see so much variety in a single place anywhere else.

The path winds through tall trees and thick foliage creating a peaceful environment. The trail is properly planned and marked, and hence easy to follow.

When you get to Forest Glade, take some time to enjoy the scenery. It also features some quiet spots with some clearing, along with old trees all around making it great for a picnic or to relax and take it all in.

You can breathe in the clean refreshing air and listen to the gentle sounds of nature as you’re nestled within nature’s expansive canopy!

Move Further along the Steep to Visit the Hanging Rock Summit

The hike can be finished quite quickly but set aside an hour to fully explore the rock formations and enjoy the views surrounding Mount Macedon. The hike is also pretty steep; fantastic for getting the blood flowing, but you may want to take a break on the way up. Do keep in mind that pets are not allowed for this walk.

The top of the Rock offers a plethora of rock formations to explore, which is ideal for children, as long as you know they can explore securely on their own – it’s easy for them to get lost among all the rocks.

This is a popular hike, and the picnic spots are frequently busy; if you prefer avoiding crowds, go on a weekday. Facilities include free gas BBQs, shelters, clean restrooms, and a small playground. Note that there is a cost to access the reserve, which is $10 per car.

A Piece of History

Hanging Rock plays a key role in Australian lore, as Joan Lindsay’s book Picnic at Hanging Rock mentions. The site’s magical feel and natural charm make it a captivating place to visit and think about its legacy.

Advice for Your Walk

Shoes: Put on tough hiking shoes for ease and backing on the steeper parts.

Drinks: Take lots of water to stay hydrated on hot days.

Food: Bring some snacks to eat at Forest Glade or on top of Hanging Rock.

Plan: Begin your walk early to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful time.

Care for Nature: Stay on marked paths, and don’t forget to take your trash with you to keep these natural gems clean!
September 23, 2024
Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
A Beautiful Quick Pit Stop Along the Great Ocean Road!

With so many beautiful things to see along the Great Ocean Road it can be challenging to decide what to see and where to spend your time especially if you only have a few days. That was certainly my experience when my wife and I were planning our three-day Great Ocean Road trip in late March. I wanted to see everything but soon realized that would be impossible within our timeframe since many of the popular bushwalks and waterfalls required significant detours from the Great Ocean Road.

I was initially drawn to the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk because it is located right along the Great Ocean Road and looked beautiful from the images I saw online. I’m glad we stopped there as it was a perfect way to start off our morning after leaving from our overnight stay in nearby Marengo.

Maits Rest Rainforest Bush Walk Details:

800m, 30 min circuit

Grade 2 easy, no steps, gentle slope

Mostly shaded

Approximately 2 hours and 50 minute drive (213km) from Melbourne CBD

When we arrived at 10am on a Sunday there were only a few other vehicles in the parking lot. Before heading on the trail, I enjoyed reading the signs and learning about the carnivorous and endangered Otway Black Snails which can be found in the area. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any black snails during our bushwalk but we did hear the lovely sounds of various birds overhead.

Welcome Sign at the Beginning of the Trail

The trail was in excellent condition and was very easy to follow. It is a combination of natural ground, metal and wooden boardwalks, and a few rest-stops with benches. The trail is very beginner and family friendly with minimal elevation changes and a few informative signs to read along the way.

Clearly Marked Trail to Follow

The trail is mostly shaded but we were fortunate to see the sun shining through the tall trees overhead at several points along the trail. There is also a wonderful variety of flora to see and appreciate along the trail.

Sun Shining Through the Flora

When I bushwalk, I love to stop and admire the beauty of tall trees such as the one in the following picture. According to the welcome sign, some of the trees in this area are over 300 years old and were left behind by loggers for future generations to admire.

One of Many Large Trees Along the Path

The path has a few twists and turns but overall is very easy to navigate as shown in the following image.

Easy to Navigate Trail

Another highlight of this trail is this old hollow tree shown in the following image. I imagine many animals have called this tree home at some point! I find it truly fascinating how trees can survive and continue growing even when missing a significant portion of their trunk.

Interesting Tree Along the Path

The whole walking trail only takes around 30 minutes to complete and is a wonderful pit stop along the Great Ocean Road. Be careful when exiting the parking lot back onto the Great Ocean Road as it can be difficult to see oncoming vehicles.

I hope you enjoyed the post and thanks for reading!
June 17, 2024
Hiking in the You Yangs – The Big Rock

Just an hour’s drive west of Melbourne, the You Yangs Regional Park is a gem that I highly recommend to anyone for a simple half or full day hiking trip. The You Yangs offers a range of different walks that you can go on, and even mountain biking trails, however the one that we went on were the Big Rock Walk and to the actual Big Rock itself.

Upon entering the park, you will be greeted by the eucalyptus and manna gum trees which are signature to this area. The drive from the gate of the park to the carpark is not long, but can be longer than expected, as you pass multiple signs for different carparks and routes, so be sure to check which carpark is the one you want to park at for which walk you want to go on.

For the Big Rock Walk, it is a fairly easy hike that is about three kilometres long, or about a one hour return from the Park Office Carpark. It is pretty relaxing but I would say it was rather uneventful for us. If you go around the Big Rock and make your way back down the same way, you will complete the walk.

If you do not want to make that hike around the Big Rock, make sure that when you drive in, you follow the signs all the way to where it states “Big Rock Carpark” as it will bring you to the Big Rock which is a whole attraction in itself (without the hike!).

The Big Rock is exactly what its name suggests – a huge rock which, when you are there, not sure where it starts and ends. When I first saw it, it reminded me of images in the Jurassic times when everything was just huge beyond imagination. It is clear that this rock has been here for as long as this park has been, and is an amazing stop to end your visit to the You Yangs with.

The climb up the rock is a little steep, so even though it is only a ten minute return walk from the Big Rock Carpark, when you think you have reached the end of the Big Rock – walk some more where you will then find yourself standing on the extension of what you thought was the Big Rock and find yourself being treated to one of the most stunning and panoramic views of the west.

If you go just before Sunset (which is absolutely when I recommend you to be there), you will realise that this is undoubtedly one of the best places to get sunset views. There is a 360 degree panoramic view all around with brilliant views towards Geelong, and makes you feel like you are on top of the world.

We also found these abseiling hooks that were drilled into the side of the rock – just staring at them gave me the chills thinking how someone could abseil down that way but I am sure this is spot is a hot favourite among the adrenalin junkies.

200 photos and a gorgeous sunset later, we made our way back to the car and drove out of the park.

There is also a picnic area with multiple benches around and an outdoor barbecue provided for use (we tested it and it seems to work), it was also pretty clean, so on a warmer night that would be a perfect spot for a summer picnic.

The beauty of the You Yangs is so understated, which, if I were to be selfish, is good that it is never crowded there, yet a shame that many have yet to experience all it has to offer. With its large range of hikes ranging from easy to high difficulty, it is certainly worth one’s while to make that trip down, which I can assure you won’t regret.

Just when we thought our adventure was over, we spotted some kangaroos and emerging from their daytime hiding spots – no better way to end the day!

June 6, 2024

Trail Name	Mount Rosea Loop
Distance	11 km
Estimated Time	3 hours
Grade	4
Type	Circuit
Park	Grampians National Park
Access	2WD (no dogs)

Big Drift: Teleport to a Dessert

Squeaky Beach: Another White Marvel

Wildlife Walk: Meet the Roos!

Glennie Lookout: The Grand Finale

Practical Tips for the Hike

Wrapping It Up

Start Your Journey with the Not-So-Challenging Yet Vibrant Forest Glade

Move Further along the Steep to Visit the Hanging Rock Summit

A Piece of History

Advice for Your Walk