Trail Fast Facts
Great Dividing Trail - Eureka Track is a 43km, grade 3 hike in the Creswick State Forest, Victoria. This hike typically takes 3 days to complete.
Hike Overview
The Eureka Track route from Mt Buninyong to 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. This rebellion saw the unfurling of the Southern Cross or Eureka flag, symbolizing resistance against exorbitant gold license fees. 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 Eureka Track, starting from Mt Buninyong's peak, offers three distinct Walk/Ride sections, each showcasing diverse environments, from urbanized areas to dense forest regrowth. The Mt Buninyong Walk/Ride commences with a descent into the crater before meandering through quiet roads and walking tracks to Buninyong township. The Canadian Creek Walk/Ride follows downstream to Ballarat CBD, while the Miners Walk/Ride traverses beside the Yarrowee River, passing through historical mining relics.
Throughout the journey, walkers and cyclists encounter a blend of landscapes, including bustling cityscapes and serene forest trails. The track poses various challenges, including eroded sections and gully crossings. The cycle route diverges at points to follow forest roads, offering a different perspective on the surroundings.
The final stretch from St Georges Lake to Creswick township is relatively level, following Creswick Creek to the Tourist Information Centre. From there, a short walk or ride westwards leads to Creswick Station, concluding the memorable journey along the Eureka Track.
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: 753 m
Min elevation: 422 m
Total climbing: 621 m
Total descent: -932 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Photo gallery
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About the region
Creswick Regional Park
Creswick Regional Park, situated on the traditional Country of the Dja Dja Wurrung Peoples, is a place of cultural significance and natural beauty. Visitors can immerse themselves in diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, lakes, and native bushland, while encountering remnants of the area's mining history.
The park offers a variety of experiences, from leisurely walks along gentle trails to cycling adventures through open roads and shared tracks. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, but the park's allure extends throughout the year for nature enthusiasts.
Explore the network of trails, ranging from the Landcare Walk circuit to the iconic 240km Goldfields Track, which traverses the Great Dividing Range. The La Gerche Forest Walk showcases reforestation efforts, while Koala Park offers serene walks through open forest and creeks.
St Georges Lake, once a mining dam, now provides a picturesque setting for water activities and picnics, attracting both visitors and wildlife. History buffs can explore heritage sites like Eatons Dam or try their hand at gold fossicking in Slaty Creek.
For camping enthusiasts, Slaty Creek Campgrounds offer secluded areas with fireplaces and amenities. Keep an eye out for koalas, wallabies, and a variety of birdlife in the park's tranquil surroundings.
Similar trails nearby
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.
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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.
0 Reviews on “Great Dividing Trail: Eureka Track (43km)”
Nice short one 👌🏻😃
TJ Craig thought you light like that. Can add it to a couple of the 1km ones
Aaaw you so thoughtful, Trail Hiking Australia! 🥰😘😘😘