Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the historic Goldfields Track, a 214km Grade 4 trail in central Victoria, Australia. In this 14-day journey, bushwalkers and mountain bikers travel through lush forests and past gold rush-era towns like Ballarat and Bendigo. The trail is split into four sections - the Eureka Track, the Wallaby Track, the Dry Diggings Track, and the Leanganook Track, each offering unique terrains and scenic views. Essential pit stops include local wineries, art galleries, and visitor information centres.

Length:

214km

Duration:

14 days

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 753m

Min elevation: 232m

Total Ascent: 4440m

Start: Mount Buninyong

End: Bendigo

Mount Buninyong Scenic Reserve

Victoria

Nearby town: Buninyong

From state capital: 121km

Latitude: -37.65371447602096

Longitude: 143.92638087272647

Overview

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4,119 views

Hike overview

The Goldfields Track: A Journey Through History and Nature. The Goldfields Track is a 210km multi-use trail that winds its way through central Victoria, Australia. It caters to both mountain bikers and bushwalkers, offering a chance to explore the region's historic towns and captivating beauty.

Originally known as the Great Dividing Trail, the Goldfields Track traverses a diverse landscape. Lush forests, both natural and planted, give way to rolling pastures and single-track paths. The terrain varies, with sections offering smooth rides on loam and others challenging riders with roots, rock ledges, and coarse sandstone.

The track links the renowned gold rush cities of Ballarat and Bendigo. Along the way, you'll pass through charming villages like Creswick, Daylesford, Hepburn Springs, Castlemaine, and Harcourt. Each location boasts unique experiences – from comfortable accommodation and delectable restaurants to wineries, art galleries, relaxing spas, and specialty shops. Visitor information centres are scattered throughout the route, allowing you to connect with locals and gain insights into each area.

The Goldfields Track is actually comprised of four interconnected sections:

The Eureka Track (43km) stretches from Mount Buninyong (20km south of Ballarat) Creswick Station, spanning 43 kilometers, traverses significant historical sites linked to Australia's gold rush era, notably Ballarat, the site of the country's only armed rebellion in 1854. The Eureka Track encompasses various intact gold rush streetscapes, from the historic township of Buninyong through the heart of Ballarat to Creswick, known as the hometown of Norman Lindsay.

The Wallaby Track (52km) stretches from from Creswick to Lake Daylesford, covering a distance of 52 kilometers. Initially passing through what was once a bustling forest atop the Divide, the track now meanders through hilly terrain, showcasing regrowth messmate and peppermint forests that have evolved since the gold rush era.

The Dry Diggings Track (58km) is considered one of the country's finest single-track stretches. The scenery transitions from the wet temperate forests on the Great Dividing Range to the drier northern plains near Castlemaine.

The Leanganook Track (61km) continues the spectacular and ever-changing views, ranging from the granite tors around Mount Alexander to the golden plains near Bendigo. This section is rich in heritage, showcasing remnants of the gold rush era alongside the impressive, still-functioning Coliban Water System.

What to expect

Suitability and Difficulty: The Goldfields Track is a natural trail designed for bushwalking and mountain biking. It's important to note that hybrid bicycles are not recommended due to the terrain.

The difficulty varies along the track, with sections ranging from easy to challenging. There's no official rating system yet due to this variability. However, the track caters to a range of fitness and skill levels. While anyone can enjoy the experience, those with lower fitness or less experience are advised to tackle shorter distances each day.

Terrain Variations: The Goldfields Track is known for its undulating terrain, with some sections featuring quite a bit of rock. This can make for a more adventurous (and sometimes more challenging) experience than you might anticipate. Mountain bikers will encounter a diverse range of climbs, descents, and flat stretches throughout their journey.

The term "undulating" is used quite literally here - there are plenty of hills! It's generally recommended to travel south to north (Ballarat/Buninyong to Bendigo). While this route doesn't avoid the hills entirely, it does have a more favourable uphill/downhill ratio compared to the other direction. Elevation profiles are available to help you plan your trip.

When to go

The Goldfields Track is accessible year-round, but be aware of seasonal variations in central Victoria. Winters bring frosty mornings, while summers can be quite hot. Regardless of the season, always be prepared for sudden weather changes and reduced visibility in higher areas, which can make it difficult to spot track markers.

Winter walkers should expect wet and muddy conditions. Conversely, summer necessitates preparation for hot days. It's crucial to avoid using the track during total fire ban days.

Autumn offers the most reliable weather, while spring boasts stunning displays of wildflowers across much of the track. During these shoulder seasons, local land managers may conduct controlled burns to manage future bushfire risks. While these burns don't necessarily close the track, heavy smoke can dampen your enjoyment. Consider planning your trip around these controlled burns for a more pleasant experience.

If you're visiting on weekends or school holidays, booking your accommodation in advance is highly recommended as the area is a popular tourist destination.

For detailed information on each section, including current conditions and closures, please visit the official Goldfields Track website.

Trail features

Mountain Bike Trail
Goldfields & Mining
Heritage
Scenic Viewpoints
Steep Terrain
Untreated Water
Overnight Campsites

Gallery

Goldfields Track (214km)

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Walk map and GPX file

Goldfields Track (214km)

Total distance: 215401 m
Max elevation: 753 m
Min elevation: 232 m
Total climbing: 4440 m
Total descent: -4958 m

Mountain Bike Trail

Total distance: 202443 m
Max elevation: 753 m
Min elevation: 232 m
Total climbing: 3587 m
Total descent: -4107 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Mount Buninyong Scenic Reserve.

The Goldfields Track is easily accessible by car or public transport.

By car: Major freeways and highways service all the key towns along the track. For walkers, numerous car access points are scattered throughout, allowing you to break the track into manageable sections and arrange pick-up and drop-off points.

By public transport: VLine trains stop at Ballarat, Creswick, Castlemaine, and Bendigo. Walkers can also use VLine’s coach service to reach Daylesford and Harcourt. Bikes are not permitted on VLine coaches.

Car-free option from Melbourne: Take a VLine train to Ballarat and cycle or walk the track towards Bendigo. Bikes are allowed on off-peak VLine train services, so you can catch a train back to Melbourne from Bendigo.

Accommodation providers: Many accommodation providers offer pick-up and drop-off services along the track, sometimes as part of overnight packages. They may also assist with packed lunches for your journey. Consider contacting your chosen accommodation for details on these services.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Ballarat, Ballarat East, Buninyong, Delacombe, Invermay, Invermay Park, Mount Helen, Redan, Sebastopol

Access conditions

2WD Access
Bitumen Road
Winding Road

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Mount Buninyong Scenic Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

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

Goldfields Track (214km)

8 Reviews on “Goldfields Track (214km)”

Overall rating

Kerri Nugent

Michele Narkiewicz hop onto this site. Some good info on trails and ideas for our future hikes.

24/03/2022, 05:23

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1. Theresa Veal
  
  Nicki Bennetts Kylie Calderwood Emma Elizabeth Stevens We could do parts of this. There is a 20km section from Harcourt-Sutton Grange rd to Castlemaine ?
  
  24/03/2022, 05:23
  
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  1. Bessie Byrne
    
    Sara Clark Stephanie Quinceton I want to ride this one!!
    
    24/03/2022, 05:23
    
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    1. Monique Morcus
      
      Stephen Crook that’s what you’re for… the wine mule ?
      
      24/03/2022, 05:23
      
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      1. Barry Stone
        
        Yes please
        
        24/03/2022, 05:23
        
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    2. Nicki Bennetts
      
      Theresa Veal yes
      
      24/03/2022, 05:23
      
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    3. Emma Elizabeth Stevens
      
      Theresa Veal I’m in
      
      24/03/2022, 05:23
      
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  2. Monique Morcus
    
    Stephen Crook this looks good too on the list to do ?
    
    24/03/2022, 05:23
    
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Peter Fisher

Barry Stone

24/03/2022, 05:23

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Tanya Bosch

I did it earlier this year on a MTB self supported and staying indoors. It’s a great track. I can highly recommend it.

24/03/2022, 05:23

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Fiona Wright

I’ve been completing in bits. Gorgeous track in part.

24/03/2022, 05:23

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Taylor Cox

David McCarthy

24/03/2022, 05:23

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Suggest an edit

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

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance