Ferntree Falls Nature Walk is a 1.5km, grade 3 circuit hike located in the Mount Buangor State Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 1 hour to complete.
Hike overview
The Ferntree Falls Nature Walk circuit is an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of the upper reaches of middle creek, a main tributary which meanders through the park and takes you through many large tree ferns and water ferns. The walk transverses through largely Manna Gum, Messmate and Blue Gum forests and crosses a series of bridges and boardwalks, providing many vantage points.
Cascade Falls is a short 5 minute walk from the Waterfalls Nature Walk. Relax and enjoy the flowing water as it rushes across a large granite rock face.
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.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 652 m
Min elevation: 541 m
Total climbing: 144 m
Total descent: -144 m
Trail location
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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.
Gallery
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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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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
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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.