Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the beautiful Chinese Gardens to Lake Kerferd trail located in the Beechworth Public Recreation Reserve, Victoria. This easy-grade, 6.5 km one-way hike is a stone's throw from Beechworth town and 290 km from Melbourne. This trail is an ideal escape to nature, filled with small streams, swing bridges, historical mine shafts, and a quiet fire track leading up to the serene Lake Kerferd. Remember to follow the signs and enjoy the scenic beauty of this unique trail.

Length:

6.5 km

Duration:

2 hrs

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 665m

Min elevation: 545m

Total Ascent: 160m

Start: Chinese Gardens

End: Lake Kerferd

Beechworth Public Recreation Reserve

Victoria

Nearby town: Beechworth

From state capital: 290km

Latitude: -36.36156951

Longitude: 146.6893780231476

Overview

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Important info

There are a number of old mine shafts in the area. Those on or beside the track are covered and safe. However do not wander off the well signposted path as there are many more deep shafts in the area.

Hike overview

You can start this walk in the main street of Beechworth. Just 200m down Camp Rd from the main intersection in town is the Chinese Gardens.

Proceed down through the gardens following the small stream up to Lake Sambell. Follow the path to the left along the shore towards the Caravan Park. At the entrance to the caravan park you'll see a small swing bridge to the left, cross this and then turn right, following the creek path. There are several bridges across the creek as you follow its path. After a while the track climbs slightly and you'll pass numerous old mine shafts close by the path.

One bridge crosses to the edge of Beechworth Holiday Park. Look for another bridge close by on your left and keep going. Soon you'll come to a small mine entrance, Heaven's Mine. If you look over the fence on the other side you'll see Hell Mine (below of course ¦).

Further on the track meets a road. Turn to the left, following the Lake Kerferd sign. After a while this merges with a fire track with pasture on one side. This is the Pipeline Track, and following the signs to the left it will take you right up to the Lake.

There is good vehicle access to the lake, and if you did a car drop you have a ride back to Beechworth. Otherwise retrace your steps and enjoy a meal back at Beechworth.

Tips

The hike starts in Beechworth and there is plenty of good eating places to pick up something to eat. There are no shops once you begin the hike.

The track has plenty of shade, so well suited to winter or summer hiking. After heavy rain it may be a little muddy, but still passable.

Trail features

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

Walk map and GPX file
Beechworth to Lake Kerferd Hike (6.5km)

Total distance: 6139 m
Max elevation: 665 m
Min elevation: 545 m
Total climbing: 160 m
Total descent: -41 m

Gallery

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Beechworth Public Recreation Reserve.

Beechworth is a 3 hour drive from Melbourne via the M31 Hume Freeway. Take the Great Alpine Road B500 to Tarrawingee and the C315 to Beechworth. Sydney is a 6 hour drive to Beechworth via the M31 Hume Freeway to Wodonga, then follow the signs to Beechworth on the C315.

Rail services run daily from Melbourne and Sydney to Wangaratta and Albury. View VLine and NSW TrainLink XPT for timetable information.

Wangaratta Coachlines operate a service Monday to Friday to Beechworth. View timetables at www.wangarattacoachlines.com.au

VLine also operates regular coach service from Melborne, Wangaratta and Bright. View timetables at www.vline.com.au.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

Access conditions

2WD Access

About the region

Beechworth is a beautiful historic town with an old gold mining heritage. Indulge and discover fabulous food, and hand-crafted wine and beer in Australia's finest historic gold-mining town. Wander, relax and re-connect amongst elms and oaks, heritage architecture and boutique shopping.

Beechworth is the ideal escape for those needing to recharge their batteries and reconnect with the body, mind and soul. Discover for yourself the sights and sounds of the beautiful surrounds of Beechworth.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Beechworth, Chiltern, Eldorado, Murmungee, Wangaratta, Yackandandah

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Beechworth Public Recreation Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

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Beechworth to Lake Kerferd Hike (6.5km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Beechworth to lake kerferd hike (6. 5km)

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025