Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 753m
Min elevation: 459m
Total Ascent: 355m
Hike overview
This Mount Buninyong - Union Jack Reserve circuit commences at Union Jack Reserve where a maze of bush tracks wander through the old gold mining area on the north-east corner of Buninyong. The trail follows a series of gravel lanes to the foot of Mount Buninyong before ascending the Wallaby and Zig Zag Tracks to the 745m summit of Mount Buninyong. From the summit this hike then follows Mount Buninyong Road before descending the Wallaby Track back to the foot of the mountain. Following a series on track and lanes you will then return to the trail head via the Buninyong Community Reserve.
Mount Buninyong is an extinct scoria cone volcano located 15km south east of Ballarat near the township of Buninyong. Unlike most other elevated points of eruption in Western Victoria, it supports some native vegetation.
The summit of the mountain is 745 metres and can be reached by either road or walking track. Superb views of the surrounding landscape can be seen from here.
Mount Buninyong is surrounded by a scenic reserve with an overstorey of eucalypts, a tussock ground cover and a very limited understorey. The remnant understorey has been interpreted in the light of both Mount Buninyong's European history and remnants from associated sites. Timber harvesting and an extended practice of grass fires with follow up grazing greatly reduced the shrub layer.
There are three walks on Mount Buninyong, the Crater Walk with a viewing platform (accessible to people with a disability), the Summit walk (a zigzag track) and the Southern Walk. The Summit and Southern Walks are graded as category three walks.
- The Crater Walk - an easy walk, approx 1 km, 20 minutes
- The Zigzag Summit Walk - steep slope requiring good footwear and reasonable fitness, approx 3 kms, 1 hour
- The South Walk to the summit via Crater Walk - steep slope requiring good footwear and reasonable fitness, approx 3.5 kms, 1 hour
Tips
If you feel you have a bit more energy to expend on reaching the summit try to climb the fire tower as many times as you legs will allow you.
Gallery
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Content use
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 753 m
Min elevation: 459 m
Total climbing: 355 m
Total descent: -355 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Mount Buninyong Scenic Reserve.
From the Old Library, walk (or drive) north along Warrenheip St. After five blocks, turn right into Elizabeth Street and proceed 750m to the Union Jack Reserve entrance.
Closest towns to this walk: Ballarat, Ballarat East, Buninyong, Delacombe, Invermay, Invermay Park, Mount Helen, Redan, Sebastopol
About the region
Mount Buninyong is an extinct volcanic mountain 745 metres above sea level. A great landmark of the district, it stands out from the vast Western Plains next to its northern sister Mount Warrenheip and is visible from the high-rise towers of Melbourne in the west and the Grampians in the east, providing a welcome sign of home to countless generations of local people.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Buninyong Scenic Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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.
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
Suggest an edit
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.
11 Reviews on “Mount Buninyong: Union Jack Reserve Hike (9.4km)”
Luke… some local walks for you ?