Trail Fast Facts
Bells Beach & Ironbark Forest is an 11.1km, grade 3 hike in Surf Coast, Victoria. This hike typically takes 4 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
Cliff backed beaches, superb coastal views and a wonderful ironbark forest, make this Bells Beach & Ironbark Forest hike a varied and interesting hike.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 113 m
Min elevation: 1 m
Total climbing: 326 m
Total descent: -326 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Put the co ordinates in your GPS or From Melbourne drive 75km to Geelong and then a further 22km to Torquay. Continue west along the Great Ocean Rd for 3km, turning left on Bells Beach Rd. Follow the signs towards Bells Beach, which is reached in a further 4 km. Park near the toilet block at the southern end of the carpark.
What to take
Bathers if it is hot and you can have a swim during or after the hike, food, water, wet weather gear.
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
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? 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
Suggest an edit
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
Weather
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.