Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the unique volcanic terrain of Budj Bim National Park on the Lava Canal Walk, a 6.5km circuit beginning and ending at the Budj Bim Picnic Area. Located a stone's throw from Macarthur and a scenic drive from Victoria's capital, this Grade 3, moderate difficulty hike leads you through ancient lava flows, past intriguing features like Tunnel Cave, Lava Blisters, and Natural Bridge. Remember to pack your hat, water, and sunscreen, and keep an eye out for local wildlife - just remember to give snakes a wide berth!

Length:

6.5km

Duration:

3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 164m

Min elevation: 102m

Total Ascent: 131m

Start: Budj Bim Picnic Area

End: Budj Bim Picnic Area

Budj Bim National Park

Victoria

Nearby town: Macarthur

From state capital: 309km

Latitude: -38.05869155

Longitude: 141.92264735698703

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Hike overview

The Lava Canal Walk follows the floor of lava flow that began with the volcanic eruption of Budj Bim 30,000 years ago. See the broken basalt of the old lava flows, lava blisters and stop at Tunnel Cave, a remnant of lava flow activity. A longer, more challenging loop walk, uneven underfoot as it follows a lava flow channel. This walk includes the Tunnel Cave, Lava Blisters and Natural Bridge.

All walks start from the picnic area or the Lake Surprise Lookout carpark. Ensure you have good shoes for the uneven terrain. A hat, water and sunscreen are essential. You may encounter wildlife including snakes on these walks, as this is where they live. They are protected here. If you see a snake on the track leave it alone and wait for it to leave.

Camping and picnicking

The Picnic Area offers a tranquil setting for day visitors Facilities include picnic tables, barbecues and toilets. The campground is near Lake Surprise and adjacent to the picnic area. Sites are in protected hollows between rocky ridges formed by ancient lava flows. Toilets, water (untreated, natural supply), hot showers and 10 shared fireplaces are provided. Most campsites can accommodate up to six people with provision for one vehicle.

Tips

Dogs are not allowed

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.

Walk map and GPX file
Lava Canal Walk (6.5km)

Total distance: 6347 m
Max elevation: 164 m
Min elevation: 102 m
Total climbing: 131 m
Total descent: -124 m

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Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Budj Bim National Park.

Budj Bim National Park is located approximately 300km west of Melbourne. Macarthur is the nearest town to the Visitor Area and Campground. Hamilton is the nearest city to this end of the park. The road to Budj Bim National Park is sealed all the way to the visitor picnic ground. There is a short gravel road from there to the campground, about 200 metres. It is suitable for 2WD.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

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Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Apollo Bay, Cavendish, Hamilton, Heywood, Lake Condah, Macarthur, Mortlake, Port Campbell, Port Fairy, Portland, Tarragal, Warrnambool

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

About the region

Budj Bim is a long dormant volcano. Budj Bim is the source of the Tyrendarra lava flow which extends over 50 kilometres to the southwest. It is central to the history of the Gunditjmara people. Budj Bim National Park is Victoria's first co-managed national park. The park is managed by Gunditjmara Traditional Owners and Parks Victoria.

The park's tranquil crater lake and pleasant bushland surrounds make it a pleasant place for picnicking, camping and bushwalking. Nature trails follow the old crater rim.

The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape has formally been recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is the only Australian World Heritage property listed exclusively for its Aboriginal cultural values. The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape features the earliest living example of aquaculture in the world, with a history of eel farming dating back over 6,000 years.

Similar walks nearby

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

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.

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Lava Canal Walk (6.5km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Lava canal walk (6. 5km) trail hiking australia

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

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