Trail summary
Hike overview
The Enfield Bald Hills Loop commences at the Surface Point picnic area in the Enfield State Park; one of the largest conservation reserves in the region. Locate the start of the walking track (at the northern end of the car park) and follow it west to Misery Creek Road. Follow the road north for 200m where you will locate the Long Gully Loop Track to your left. Remain on this track for the next 3km as it weaves its way north before intersecting with Misery Creek Road.
Cross the road to pick up the Misery Creek Walking Track which turns south to follow Mount Misery Creek. Continue south along this track for approximately 2.5km to the Old Breached Mining Dam.
From here, you will pick up the Forest Park Walking Track as it heads west back to the Surface Point Picnic Area
Fossicking
Nearly half of the park is available for fossicking or panning for gold along Misery Creek. Remember to fill any holes made and leave the area as you found it. Relics are protected by law and must not be disturbed or removed.
Tips
The Surface Point picnic area has barbecues, tables, toilets. Camping is allowed for short periods but you need to bring your own water. Firewood also may be in short supply and fires may only be lit in the facilities provided.
The park features a number of walks of varying distances. Experienced walkers with navigational skills can hike completely off trail in this park and can bush camp overnight at Frith Gully.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 409 m
Min elevation: 308 m
Total climbing: 190 m
Total descent: -190 m
Getting there
Closest towns to this walk: Ballarat, Smythesdale, Buninyong, Scarsdale, Creswick
25 km south of Ballarat on the Colac-Ballarat Road C146. VicRoads 76 E6. Turn right into Misery Creek Road and proceed approximately 3 km to Surface Point picnic area. It is also accessible from the Sebastopol-Smythesdale Road by turning left into State Forest Road.
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.
About the region
Enfield State Park is one of the largest conservation reserves in the region. Several unsealed, all-weather roads transect the area and provide scenic drives particularly in spring. The area was extensively mined during the gold mining era of the 1850s and 1860s. Surface Point was the site of a Chinese settlement and their round mine shafts are still to be found. Remnants of smelting works, mining dams and water races can be found.
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Let someone know
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Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
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.
1 Review on “Long Gully Misery Creek Loop Hike (7km)”
This is a very pleasant circuit walk with some gold mining history and interesting vegetation. The smooth white bark of towering Candlebarks feature along the valleys and heath and acacias provide a colourful understorey when flowering (September). I spotted a couple of Eastern Grey Kangaroos and lots of noisy Cockatoos.
Thanks for the review Darren. Sounds like you had a great day out. Gotta love those noisy cockatoos.