Fires and track work since this walk was documented means that the route may be barely visible and signage may not exist.
Starting from Richards Campground or the Glut Picnic area, the Paradise Walk is a half day walk through beautiful Messmate and Manna Gum forests, up ridge tops and down through fern lined gullies and creek crossings.
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Total distance: 6287 m
Max elevation: 632 m
Min elevation: 444 m
Total climbing: 326 m
Total descent: -325 m
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Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Mount Cole State Forest.
The park is located between Ararat and Beaufort on the Western Highway, Route A8. Take the Western Highway to Beaufort. Turn right just past the Rotunda in the main street of Beaufort. Follow the signs to Mt Cole and Beeripmo. Travel north to Raglan then follow the Elmhurst road for about 9 km and take the Glut road fork to the left. Turn left again at the sign to Richards Campground. The car park is a short distance up this road.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Access conditions
- 2WD Access
- Gravel Road
- Small Car Park
- Accessible Toilet
- Public Toilets
- Untreated Water
- Picnic Shelter
- Picnic Table
- Campfire Pit
- Camping Area
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Amphitheatre, Ararat, Avoca, Beaufort, Elmhurst, Landsborough, Lexton, Moonambel, Raglan, Scarsdale
About the region
Mount Cole State Forest is located one hours drive west of Ballarat, just off the Western Highway, 25 kilometres from the township of Beaufort and marks the gateway to the Grampians. Mount Cole is a great place to getaway from it all. Camp the night at one of the many campgrounds in the parks and stroll after dark to spotlight the forest night life.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Cole State Forest? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Mount Cole State Forest & Mount Buangor State Park
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