Grade 3

Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail Walk (24km)

Colquhoun State Forest

Victoria

24km

7 hrs

Grade 3

One Way

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Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the historic Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail, a moderate 24km hike, perfect for a day trip from the nearby town of Lakes Entrance. Walk the path of an early 1900s tramway, see remnants of the old Mississippi Quarry, and enjoy the call of bellbirds and sight of blooming wildflowers. The trail, also known as the Mississippi Trail, offers multiple access points and features a viewing platform at the quarry site and a charming picnic stop at Log Crossing. Enjoy a mix of bush trail and water views as you explore this unique part of East Gippsland.

Max elevation: 141m

Min elevation: 3m

Total Ascent: 304m

3,288 views

Hike overview


Tips


Map and GPX file

Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail Walk (24km)


Getting there


Closest towns to this walk: Bairnsdale, Bemm River, Kalimna, Lake Entrance, Lake Tyers Beach, Lakes Entrance, Marlo, Metung, Nowa Nowa, Nungurner, Orbost, Paynesville, Swan Reach

Getting to the trailhead in Colquhoun State Forest.

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About the region


Similar trails nearby


Looking for hikes and trails in Colquhoun State Forest or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Grade 3
Grade 3
Grade 3
Grade 3

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.

Explore safe


Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists


What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know


Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews

Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail Walk (24km)


8 Reviews on “Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail Walk (24km)”

Overall rating
  • Started off at Scriveners Road, (a note for people interested is that while the road leading to it is sealed, parking is very limited at the starting point) the first section of the trail before the quarry is relatively flat and easy going, there is a picnic/rest area with picnic table where the trail intersects with a dirt track. Between the quarry and the trail’s end there are a series of long ascents and descents that will test you, the trail is sealed with gravel for it’s entire length from Scriveners Road to it’s junction with the Rail Trail, turning right on the Rail Trail towards Orbost and continuing 2km approx will lead to gravel road access (Lakes Colquhoun Road), along the trail you will find relics related to the historic Granite Quarry along with wildlife and great Forest scenery.

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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.

Acknowledgement of Country

Gippsland lakes discovery trail walk (24km)

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.