The Borella Walk Ben Nevis circuit can commence at either Chinamans Campground or the Ben Nevis picnic area. Borella Walk is a bird watchers delight. It was named in memory of noted local bird observer Max Borella and offers great lookouts. As the walk can be quite steep in places, it is recommended that you take your time and enjoy the views. Panoramic Views can be enjoyed at the summit of Ben Nevis.
This is a steep hike located at the Northern end of the range. There was an old foot pad from Chinamans Campground but this may have disappeared so if you cannot locate it, follow the 4WD track from the campground which is north to the gully at the back of the campground. The 4WD track very steep 4-wheel for approximately 1.25km.
Borella Walk was named in memory of noted local bird observer Max Borella and offers great lookouts. A monument stands at the Ben Nevis lookout in memory of the tragic victims of a 1942 RAAF Avro Anson plane crash, which occurred on the mountainside blow.
Chinamans Campground
Chinamans Campground is a fantastic free camping area within the Mount Cole State Forest – a beautiful scenic area with amazing views, popular for camping, horse riding, four wheel driving, walking and picnicking. A large central shelter contains sturdy wood-slab picnic tables and an open fireplace, and is a great spot for a picnic lunch. The shelter is surrounded by a large clear area with multiple campsites. Picnic tables, fire pits and wood fire barbecues are scattered throughout the campground, and a toilet block provides non-flush toilets.
Dogs are permitted in the forest and a horse pen is available for visitor use so be sure to bring along your four-legged friends.
- Rough Trail
- Well Marked Trail
- Dog Friendly
- Steep Terrain
- Scenic Viewpoints
- Untreated Water
Located one hour drive west of Ballarat, just off the Western Highway, Mt Cole State Forest is 25 kilometres from the township of Beaufort and marks the gateway to the Pyrenees Wine District and the Grampians.
Chinamans Campground: Turn off the Western Highway onto Buangor-Ben Nevis Road just past the town of Buangor and continue on for 13km, then turn sharp right onto Mount Cole Road. After 4.5km turn off onto Chinaman Road and continue on for 0.6km to the site.
Ben Nevis picnic area: In dry conditions, Ben Nevis is easily reached by all vehicles via well-formed gravel roads. During wet seasons visitors may require a four wheel drive vehicle. Access is via Ben Nevis Road, which turns off from Mount Cole Road.
- 2WD Access
- Gravel Road
- Small Car Park
- Public Toilets
- Picnic Table
- Campfire Pit
- Camping Area
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.
Mount Cole is a great place to getaway from it all. Camp the night at one of the many campgrounds in the parks and stroll after dark to spotlight the forest night life. Mt Cole State Forest is located one hours drive west of Ballarat, just off the Western Highway, 25 kilometres from the township of Beaufort and marks the gateway to the Grampians.
Mount Cole or ‘Bereep-bereep’ was home to the Beeripmo balug tribe that form part of the larger Djab Wurrung language-speaking people. Through translation of the local language we can get a feel for these people and what they saw, ‘Bereep-bereep’ meaning wild, and Beeripmo translating to “wild mount”. Following Major Mitchell's 1836 expedition, settlers quickly moved into the area. Timber harvesting with axe and cross cut saw began during the mid 1840's.
In 1856 the use of steam powered mills commenced. By 1889, demand from the goldfield towns for building materials, firewood and railway sleepers led to thirty mills operating within the region until 1904. The Forests Commission was established in 1918 and soon after Mount Cole State Forest was closed for timber harvesting. Timber harvesting was reopened in a managed structure from 1947, by the Forests Commission. In the 2000's timber harvesting was significantly scaled back and is largely a by-product of land management activities.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Mount Cole State Forest or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
