Ada to Starlings Gap via New Ada Mill is a 16.1km, grade 3 hike located in Yarra State Forest, Victoria. The hike should take around 5 hours to complete.
Hike overview
This is a very beautiful Ada to Starlings Gap via New Ada Mill hike that passes the Ada Tree. One of the largest trees in Australia, at 76 metres high. It passes through some very beautiful and lush rain forest. It has well deserved reputation as a very scenic walk.
Starting at the Ada Tree Picnic area, after approx 1.6km you will come to the Ada Tree. Then follow the marked trail to Federal Mill and on to the Crossroads. Where you can take the diversion to the New Ada Mill (or Ada Mill if you wish). After returning to the crossroads continue to Starlings Gap.
The trails are mostly over old tram tracks and therefore of gentle incline. The Ada to Federal Mill is over gently undulating ground, plus from Crossroads to New Ada Mill is a mild incline.
Overall one of the most beautiful hikes in the Melbourne Area for sure.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 802 m
Min elevation: 685 m
Total climbing: 664 m
Total descent: -665 m
Tips
- This area can have a lot of leeches so bring your favourite leech remedy or repellant.
- This can be started from either end, just make sure you have transport arranged at the end.
Trail location
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Getting there
There are various routes to do, but perhaps the simplest is to find your way to Powelltown (assuming you come from the West), then look for the turn off to Big Creek Road on your left (roughly 6km after Powelltown). Follow the signs to Ada Tree.
Gallery
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.