The Gawarn Baring Walking Track offers a scenic 5-kilometre (round trip) hike through Tallarook State Forest in Victoria's north-central region. Located just over an hour's drive from Melbourne, this moderate (grade 3) track is typically completed in approximately 2.5 hours.
The name "Gawarn Baring" translates to "Echidna Track" in the Taungurung language. The trail follows the path of Falls Creek along the forest's edge, culminating at the historic Trawool Reservoir. This picturesque reservoir, stocked with Silver and Golden perch, features two fishing platforms near the designated picnic area. After reaching the Reservoir Campsite, hikers return by retracing their steps along the trail.
Total distance: 4906 m
Max elevation: 453 m
Min elevation: 167 m
Total climbing: 326 m
Total descent: -326 m
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You can reach Tallarook State Forest by travelling north from Melbourne on the Hume Freeway. Take the Ennis Road exit located between the townships of Broadford and Seymour. Be aware that some forestry roads are subject to seasonal closures. These closures typically run from the Thursday after the Queen's Birthday holiday until the Thursday before Melbourne Cup each year. Implemented to safeguard road surfaces, the environment, and public safety, these closures may be extended based on weather conditions. Look for signage or gates indicating road closures, and for the most up-to-date information, contact the Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI). Parking is available near the Trawool Resort, and the Gawarn Baring walking track is a 5 minute walk along the nearby Great Victorian Rail Trail before you cross the road to the entrance.
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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.
The Tallarook State Forest, encompassing 5,100 hectares of mixed eucalypt forest, lies roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes north of Melbourne.
The land traditionally belonged to the Kulin Nation, with the Taungurung people acting as stewards. Evidence of their presence can be found throughout the forest in the form of scattered artefacts and scarred trees.
European settlement brought gold mining to the area in the 1870s, leading to the establishment of towns like Strath Creek and Reedy Creek. The following decade saw the rise of sawmilling, with many mills operating within the forest boundaries. Notably, Tallarook also served as a military training ground. Limited timber harvesting and military training continue to this day.
Camping and day-trip opportunities abound within Tallarook State Forest. Freemans Camp and Picnic Area, situated near the intersection of Main Road and Freemans Road, is the only location with amenities such as toilets, picnic tables, and barbecues. Unfacilitated campsites can be found at Flat Rock, Trawool Reservoir Camp, and Tassie Camp.
Trawool Reservoir:Â Built in the 1890s to supply water to Seymour and the nearby railway, Trawool Reservoir features a 350-foot long and 23-foot high granite weir constructed from ashlar masonry. While no longer used for its original purpose, the reservoir holds water year-round and remains a scenic attraction within the forest. The spelling of the reservoir's name was changed from Traawool to Trawool in the early 1900s. The area is popular for picnics and fishing, although there are no designated facilities.
Mount Hickey:Â Standing at 405 meters above sea level, Mount Hickey is the highest point in the forest. It houses a Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) fire lookout tower, staffed during most summer days. Public access to the tower is restricted.
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 Tallarook State Forest or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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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.
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
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.
