Trail Fast Facts
Great Dividing Trail - Dry Diggings Track is a 58km, grade 3 hike in Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 4 days to complete.
Hike Overview
The journey from Lake Daylesford to Castlemaine Station covers 58 kilometers and traverses through Australia's first National Heritage Park, the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park, designated in 2002 to honor its association with the Victorian gold rush era.
Following old 1850s gold rush water races, the track leads from the wet temperate forests atop the Great Dividing Range in Daylesford to the dry northern plains surrounding the Forest Creek gold diggings near Castlemaine. Along the way, travelers encounter various sections with distinct characteristics and historical significance.
The Tipperary Walk offers a gentle journey through bushland, providing insights into the gold rush and mineral spa towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs. For those seeking a glimpse into the gold rush era, both the Golden Mountain and Cry Joe walks/rides navigate narrow gullies dotted with mine shafts and stone ruins.
Alternatively, adventurers can choose to bypass Castlemaine and directly connect with the Leanganook Track via a designated link route starting north of The Monk and passing through Chewton.
The Dry Diggings Track, segmented into four Walks/Rides, winds through steep slopes and narrow tracks above streams, showcasing the natural beauty and historical remnants of the region. Notably, the section from Breakneck Gorge to Golden Springs offers breathtaking views and encounters with the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve.
Throughout the journey, travelers can immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes and rich history of the gold rush era, from the distinctive cone of Mt Franklin to the winding paths of the Poverty Gully water race. Whether on foot or bike, the route offers a captivating exploration of the region's past and natural beauty.
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: 563 m
Min elevation: 277 m
Total climbing: 1258 m
Total descent: -1507 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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About the region
The Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park is near the town of Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia. The park protects a nationally significant historic cultural landscape of heritage value and relics of the Victorian gold rush. The Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park was added to the Victorian Heritage Register in December 2003. It is the largest non-indigenous protected cultural landscape in Australia. In January 2005 the park was added to the Australian National Heritage List recognizing its outstanding heritage value and importance in the course of Australia's migration history.
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
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
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
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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 “Great Dividing Trail: Dry Diggings Track (58km)”
Jessica Rainey Carl Johnston Matt Robert Daniel Pye Brent Hartnel