Trail Fast Facts
Mount Lofty is a 6.1km, grade 3 hike in Warrandyte State Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 2.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
Located in Wonga Park, Mount Lofty features spectacular views of the river and surrounding mountain ranges. This walk is one of the best in the City of Melbourne. The track meanders through gums and tea-trees, over creeks and along the Yarra River before rising to the summit of Mount Lofty. Birdlife, riverside environment, bush tracks, exposed ridgeline and magnificent views are just some of the treats that await you - all to the gentle sound of the Yarra River.
The hike begins at Wittons Reserve Carpark next to the relaxing sound of the Yarra River. You'll often see canoes or kayaks launching from this point. The track to Mount Lofty begins at the north-east end of the car park. The gravel path takes you across a bridge over Bushy Creek. Look for evidence of wombats - they leave almost square droppings - a strange product from such a rotund animal. There are also wombat holes near the sides of the path.
Not far along the trail, you will pass one of several Yarra River viewing spots, perfect for a quick respite. Watch for water birds here including herons, cormorants and ducks. Currawongs, kookaburras and rosellas can be heard in the trees. The trail continues over a couple of bridges and through Burgan, Kunzea ericoides. Mount Lofty was grazed until 1995. Since then regrowth of native Burgan has been prolific. In spring the thickets are covered in white flowers and provide habitat for birds, insects and other wildlife. The track now undulates and crosses a couple of creeks. It then opens into grasslands.
Cross this beautiful grassland where you will find wildflowers and orchids among tussocks of Wallaby and Kangaroo Grass. There is a seating area opposite an ancient steep escarpment cut by the river. An unsealed management track will appear on your right. You can take this shortcut if you like, but it is steep and does not reduce the time by much. A short path to your left leads down to the water's edge. This is yet another picturesque point to rest and relax. Picnic table and seats are located here. (The path widens to a vehicle track.)
Now for the climb! Your path takes you up a steep ridge, but every step is worth it with stunning views waiting at the top, all the while the sounds of the river can be heard way below. Wedge-tailed Eagles have been known to circle the mount - keep an eagle eye out for them.
The summit. You are surrounded by views to Mount Dandenong, Lilydale and Warrandyte. The Yarra you can see bordering Mount Lofty is the start to the Warrandyte Gorge. Turn your gaze to the gentle hills to your right, these are the Yarra Valley Flood Plains - an area providing nutrient rich soil and perfect for a range of farming and market gardening. A steep side-path descends to the river if you want a quiet place to fish, read or just sit. Keep to the right of the fork ahead and walk towards the homestead.
Veer to the right at the old homestead. The track now begins a steep descent. Take care here - the gravelly track can be slippery, especially after rain. When you find yourself back in bushland you are almost home. Turn left at the main track to return to Wittons Reserve car park. This finishes your hike. Time to relax and plan your next adventure.
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.
Tips
- Parking Wittons Reserve, Reserve Road, Wonga Park.
- Can be combined with other Warrandyte State Park walks for a longer hike.
- To complete the circuit, either take the steep track up the hill on the right shortly after starting the track and follow it around anti-clockwise; or proceed straight ahead for a more gradual climb and descend the steep hill at the end.
Contributed by Rob Collins
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 129 m
Min elevation: 51 m
Total climbing: 251 m
Total descent: -252 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
The park is 24km north-east of Melbourne. Access is mainly via three sealed roads: Warrandyte Road, Research-Warrandyte Road and Ringwood-Warrandyte Road (Melways pages 23 & 24).
Warrandyte State Park has a rich gold history. It is believed to be the site of Victoria's first gold find in 1851 and remnants of the gold rush remain at Fourth Hill. For details about public transport to the park contact VicTrip on 13 1638.
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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.Â
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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.
1 Review on “Mount Lofty Hike (6.1km)”
Nice hike on clear paths with great 365 degree views from the top ridge. There were also some nice spots on the Yarra River for lunch or snacks. A very pleasant experience.
Just about no signage put in place by Parks Victoria though. Not even at the Wittons Reserve car park!
On your way home (… if you’re going that way) make a stop at the Eltham War Memorial Park. Impressive Tower with great views.
Good hike. Well maintained – clear path. It would not hurt if Parks Victoria would add a little more directional signage.
Sounds like you took the track that ‘winds along the river bank’, which is much longer as it follows the river and is somewhat overgrown. If you had doubled back from either of the river access detours, you would have stayed on the main trail. The ‘Homestead and Mt Lofty Circuit’ uses the path along the river bank.
Jenn Aedo Sunday
Miss it
This one is 1 lofty’s for sure! Ella Ottrey!