The You Yangs Northern Range Circuit Hike is an ideal choice for those seeking a moderately challenging loop trail through You Yangs Regional Park in Victoria. This 8-kilometre trek, graded as a 3 on the difficulty scale, typically takes around 3 hours to complete.
The circuit incorporates several trails, including the West Walk, Northern Range Walk, and Branding Yard Trail. It's important to have a map handy, as this area has many intersecting paths that could lead to confusion.
The trail offers a good mix of terrain, with flat sections, rocky areas, and some steeper hills. This is a quieter part of the park, making it a good option for those seeking to escape the crowds, particularly on weekends or during peak times.
The hike begins at the Turntable Carpark. From here, follow the West Walk along the western slopes of Flinders Peak. This section is known for its interesting granite boulders, lookout points, and easy rock scrambling opportunities, all while rewarding you with stunning views. Upon reaching the Saddle, locate and follow the Northern Range Track that branches off to the north. This track winds its way around an unnamed peak before descending into a valley. The path then gradually ascends another peak before dropping down to Branding Yard Road.
After crossing the road, take the Branding Yard Trail as it heads southwest back towards Flinders Peak and the Turntable Carpark. If you have the energy and time, you can climb the 450 steps to Flinders Peak for even more rewarding views of the You Yangs and the surrounding plains.
The Flinders Peak walk itself is a separate 3.3-kilometre grade 3 hike that offers panoramic views within a 1.25-hour timeframe. As you ascend the steps, the dramatic granite peaks of the You Yangs will come into view, contrasting with the surrounding flat volcanic plains. You may even catch glimpses of Melbourne and Geelong in the distance.
The You Yangs Northern Range Circuit can be extended by connecting with other trails throughout You Yangs Regional Park, including the You Yangs Circuit Hike.
- The You Yangs is a great location for the family.
- Be careful on some trails as they are often used by walkers, hikers, trail runners and mountain bike riders.
- You Yangs Regional Park is open daily from 7:00am to 8:00pm, including weekends and public holidays. Please note that the front gate is closed to vehicles each night.
- There are nine picnic areas throughout the park, many with tables and accessible toilet facilities. The main picnic areas provide free gas barbecues on a first come basis. There are plenty of places to set up your own gas barbecue.
- Drinking water is available from the Visitor Centre drinking fountain.
- Please take all rubbish away for disposal or recycling.
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Total distance: 8084 m
Max elevation: 241 m
Min elevation: 70 m
Total climbing: 290 m
Total descent: -290 m
Closest towns to this walk: Avalon, Bacchus Marsh, Geelong, Lara, Little River, Werribee
Getting to the trailhead in You Yangs Regional Park.
Located just over 50 kilometres southwest of Melbourne in Little River, Victoria, You Yangs Regional Park is easily accessible by car. Follow the Princes Freeway (M1) for roughly an hour, with clear signage guiding you to the park entrance at 5 Branch Road. For those coming from Geelong, the park is a convenient 30-minute drive, approximately 25 kilometres away. The park itself is open every day for public enjoyment, but keep in mind closing times vary depending on daylight saving time.
You Yangs Regional Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Wadawurrung People. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Wadawurrung Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.
Magnificent views, birdlife and a mecca for walkers, horse riders and mountain bikers - welcome to the You Yangs! The distinctive granite peaks of this park rise abruptly from the flat plains below. Flinders Peak and Big Rock have panoramic views out to Melbourne, which is just an hour away.
Explore over 50 kilometres of purpose-built mountain bike trails for beginners and experts. Ride easy, open dirt roads to technical, single-track and adrenaline-pumping downhill trailsor see the diverse scenery of the You Yangs from your car along The Great Circle Drive.
Climb Flinders Peak, the highest point in the You Yangs and be rewarded with uninterrupted views out to Melbourne and Geelong. Come with family or friends and picnic among the boulder-strewn landscape. Choose from nine designated picnic areas.
The You Yangs support a rich variety of plant species. Tall eucalypts such as manna gum, yellow gum and river red gum give way to sparse undergrowth of native shrubs and groundcovers. Patches of wattle and drooping sheoaks also occur. The endangered brittle greenhood orchid is one of 30 species of orchids found in the park.
The park provides a range of habitats for wildlife. More than 200 species of birds have been recorded and koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, brush-tail possums, echidnas and lizards are commonly seen.
Looking for hikes and trails in You Yangs Regional Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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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.
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.
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.
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
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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10 Reviews on “Northern Range Circuit (8km)”
Seeking a scenic escape from the busier parts of the You Yangs? The Northern Range Circuit near Little River is a good choice. This moderately challenging loop offers stunning views and a good variety of terrain. While the trails themselves are mostly marked, a map can be helpful to avoid any confusion. The circuit features a mix of flat paths, rocky sections, and some steeper climbs. A great hike.