Areas of Heathcote-Graytown National Park are infected with the soil borne disease know as Cinnamon Fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomic). To prevent the spread of this disease visitors are requested to stay on formed tracks and take note of signs that restrict public access. Damage from 4WD and motorbikes is significant on the walking tracks of Mt Black. March flies can be a problem in Autumn.
Mount Black Walk is a scenic walk to the summit of Mount Black. Mt Black has the highest elevation of any hill in the area, 300m. The National Park is composed of forested hills and gullies. These make for enjoyable bushwalking. The sand stone ridges are a result a folding earth's crust. The views from these hilltops are terrific. Look out for fossilised sea shells from the ancient sea bed.
Along the Mt Black walk, eastern grey kangaroos, echidnas, antechinus and goannas may be encountered. Threatened species you may be lucky enough to see are the squirrel glider, phascogale (tuan) and swift parrot during winter. Enjoy spectacular stands of huge old grass trees (Xanthorrhoea australis), up to three metres high can been seen in this part of the National Park. Grass Trees are common in the Mt Black area. They are very slow to grow and flower most often following bushfire.
For a longer 11km return walk, commence at the corner of Mt Black Quarry Rd and Nagambie-Heathcote Rd.
Information courtesy of Shrathbogie Shire
- Ruts and erosion - surfaces may be unstable. Take care with your footing.
- A fossil opportunity €“ sandstones litter the ground. Look for ancient sea bed fossils.
Total distance: 2508 m
Max elevation: 308 m
Min elevation: 206 m
Total climbing: 108 m
Total descent: -108 m
Download file:
Mount%20Black%20Walk.gpx
Variations
Total distance: 2467 m
Max elevation: 308 m
Min elevation: 206 m
Total climbing: 108 m
Total descent: -108 m
Download file:
Mount%20Black%20Walk%202.gpx
For a longer 11km return walk, commence at the corner of Mt Black Quarry Rd and Nagambie-Heathcote Rd.
Total distance: 10115 m
Max elevation: 308 m
Min elevation: 176 m
Total climbing: 221 m
Total descent: -221 m
Download file:
Mount%20Black%20Walk%203%20.gpx
The Mount Black Walk commences on Mt Black Quarry Rd. Heathcote-Graytown National Park Wirrate 3608. The entry to the Mt Black walking track is 800m uphill from the Melville's Lookout directional sign along Mt Black Quarry Rd on the right. There is no sign.
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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.
The Heathcote-Graytown National Park (now Dargile National Park) comprises Victoria's largest remaining box €“ ironbark forest, consisting of open woodland including ironbark, grey and yellow box and stringy bark. The understory features blackwood, gold dust wattle, silver wattle and drooping cassinia. The latter (also known as Chinese Cassinia or Scrub) is an opportunistic coloniser that is considered a bush fire enhancer. Green rock fern is a common ground plant in milder months. Wildflowers are abundant in spring, but may be found in smaller numbers at any time. They include grassland wood sorrel, tall bluebells and greenhood orchids, with others according to the season. Rare crimson spider orchids may be also seen.
Red and little wattle birds and parrots enjoy the canopy when eucalypts are in flower. White winged choughs are common and white throated tree creepers are often seen trunk running, cockatoos abound and gang gangs can be spotted. For the birdwatcher there is an abundance.
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.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
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.
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.
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
