Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the serene beauty of the Lake Elizabeth Circuit, a scenic 4.7km hike near the town of Forrest. This Grade 2 trail winds around a picturesque lake, formed by a historic landslide, and features breathtaking views and native wildlife, including the elusive platypus. Don't forget to enjoy the calm waters lined with drowned tree trunks, for an unforgettable Australian bushwalking experience.

Length:

4.7km

Duration:

1.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 279m

Min elevation: 226m

Total Ascent: 270m

Start: Lake Elizabeth Car Park

End: Lake Elizabeth Car Park

Great Otway National Park

Victoria

Nearby town: Forrest

From state capital: 160km

Latitude: -38.55046868

Longitude: 143.74509844986625

Overview

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4,951 views

Hike overview

Lake Elizabeth is a picturesque lake near Forrest. The Lake Elizabeth Circuit is short but is a really beautiful hike and well worth the visit. The lake was formed due to a landslide, giving it a unique character.

The hike is approx 1km to the first viewpoint of the lake. Many people turn back here, but the circuit around the lake is well worth doing. You will see the route to your right once arriving at the lake. It is roughly 2km around the lake. Once you have completed the circuit return back along the original track to return to the car park.

Lake Elizabeth is hidden deep in the Otways. Discover its inspiring beauty with heavily timbered flanks and calm waters punctuated by the trunks of dead trees, drowned when the valley was flooded more than 50 years ago to form this "perched lake". The elusive platypus can be found in the waters of the lake - wake up early or head to Lake Elizabeth at dusk to catch a glimpse of these shy Australian natives.

There is a campground situated on the bank of the east branch of the Barwon River sheltered by tall Eucalyptus trees. A scenic 20 minute walk takes you to Lake Elizabeth.

Tips

The circuit can be done either way, but it best done anti clockwise (head right when arriving at the lake) as this has the nest approach to views of the lake.

Gallery

Photos by Josh J.

Walk map and GPX file
Lake Elizabeth Circuit Walk (4.7km)

Total distance: 4729 m
Max elevation: 279 m
Min elevation: 226 m
Total climbing: 270 m
Total descent: -274 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Great Otway National Park.

From Melbourne head to the village of Forrest via M1, C135 and C119. Once at Forrest follow the signs to Lake Elizabeth via Kaanlang Rd (it is well signposted).

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Apollo Bay, Beech Forest, Colac, Forrest, Lavers Hill, Lorne, Skenes Creek, Wye River

About the region

Great Otway National Park stretches from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and up through the Otways hinterland. Discover windswept coastlines and breathtaking waterfalls in tall mountain forests, walk the iconic Great Ocean Walk, immerse yourself in the Otway Lightstation's history, or surf some of the best breaks in Australia. Enjoy the great outdoors and explore the wonders of the Great Otway National Park. Great Otway National Park is in southern Victoria, Australia. It covers rugged coastland, beaches and the mountains of the Otway Ranges. Waterfalls dot the park, including the 3 cascades of Triplet Falls. Boardwalks lead through temperate rainforest at Maits Rest. The 1848 Cape Otway Lightstation perches on cliffs overlooking Bass Strait. Great Ocean Walk leads through the park to the Twelve Apostles rock formations.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Great Otway National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 2 (Easy) - A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.

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
Lake Elizabeth Circuit Walk (4.7km)

9 Reviews on “Lake Elizabeth Circuit Walk (4.7km)”

Overall rating

Josh Edwards

Great little circuit ??

24/03/2022, 05:21

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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

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

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Lake Elizabeth Circuit Walk (4.7km)