Trail Fast Facts
Ferntree Falls Nature Walk is a 1.5km, grade 3 circuit hike in the Mount Buangor State Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 1 hour to complete.
Hike Overview
The Ferntree Falls Nature Walk offers a captivating exploration of the upper reaches of Middle Creek within Mount Buangor State Park, Victoria. This 1.5-kilometre circuit, classified as grade 3, typically requires approximately one hour to complete.
The walk traverses through a predominantly Manna Gum, Messmate, and Blue Gum forest, with a series of bridges and boardwalks providing access to various vantage points. Abundant tree ferns and water ferns line the creek, creating a lush and verdant atmosphere.
A short five-minute detour from the main walk leads to Cascade Falls, where visitors can admire the water cascading over a large granite rock face. The Ferntree Falls walk itself extends for one kilometre and takes approximately 45 minutes to return. Commencing at the Ferntree camping area, this trail showcases three waterfalls, including Cascade Falls, offering scenic views of the fern-filled upper reaches of Middle Creek.
The Ferntree Picnic Area offers picnic tables, fire pits and wood fire barbecues, non-flush toilets (one with disabled access), a small hut (named Joffa's Hut) with seating and fireplace, and plenty of room.
Ferntree Camping Area
Enjoy a shady tent site in this secluded dry forest and woodland setting, a great base from which to get active and enjoy one of the many walks or just rest and relax at camp, re-energising as you immerse yourself in nature amongst resident wildlife, watching crimson rosellas darting between trees or wedge tailed eagles soaring overhead.
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: 652 m
Min elevation: 541 m
Total climbing: 144 m
Total descent: -144 m
Trailhead
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Getting there
The Mount Buangor State Park and Ferntree Picnic Area is located between Ararat and Beaufort on the Western Highway, Route A8. Take Ferntree Gully Road off the Western Highway. The camping areas are located just inside the park entrance.
Photo gallery
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A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
About the region
Mount Buangor State Park is located 60 kilometres west of Ballarat, Victoria in Bayindeen. The 2400 hectare Park takes in varied eucalypt forest, creek flats, a waterfall, steep escarpments and Mount Buangor, the area's highest peak. The park contains a 15 km network of walking trails, many extend into the adjoining Mount Cole State Forest. Dogs are not permitted in this park.
Mount Buangor State Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Eastern Maar Peoples. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Eastern Maar Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.
The Mount Buangor State Park allows you to explore a variety of landscapes including eucalypt forest, creek flats, waterfalls and steep escarpments. From the peak of Mount Buangor, the highest in the area, you can experience spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Middle Creek is a good spot for large groups to camp or for camping in caravans. The section of the Bukkertillible and Sugarloaf walks between The Cave and 2 Mile Circuit is a semi remote and steep walk suitable for experienced bushwalkers only. Please be aware that in wet conditions this section of track can become quite slippery.
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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.
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
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.
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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.
3 Reviews on “Ferntree Falls Nature Walk (1.5km)”
Such a pretty waterfall