Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the magnificent Sugarloaf and Christmas Hills Circuit, a 15km hike nestled in Victoria's lush bushland. This grade 3, moderate trail commences at the Saddle Dam Picnic Area, offering panoramic views of the city and Yarra Valley from vantage points like Eagle Point. Expect to encounter Australia's native kangaroos and deer as you traverse open bushland and timbered areas, with the tranquil Sugarloaf Reservoir within sight for most of the journey. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a well-defined, moderately challenging circuit with abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Length:

15km

Duration:

4 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 265m

Min elevation: 169m

Total Ascent: 326m

Start: Saddle Dam Picnic Area

End: Saddle Dam Picnic Area

Sugarloaf Reservoir Park

Victoria

Nearby town: Kangaroo Ground

From state capital: 46km

Latitude: -37.6807827

Longitude: 145.3029791

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Hike overview

The Sugarloaf and Christmas Hills Circuit is a relatively easy hike around the Sugarloaf Reservoir with one or two modest climbs. The route is fairly well defined with great views, plenty of kangaroo's and the occasional deer. The hike commences at the Saddle Dam Picnic Area and car park on Simpson Road. Cross the Reservoir wall to the east and continue on the well formed Ironbark Ridge track to the Ridge Picnic Area. The official trail does not continue beyond this point however the route is clearly marked with orange markers as it circumnavigates the reservoir. Along the route you will pass Mount Graham, Rosella Spur, Eagle Point (the highest point in the park), Cockatoo Knoll, Plover Point, Finger Ridge, Sugarloaf Hill and the Sugarloaf Dam Wall with the highest points providing views of the city and Yarra Valley. At most times the water is within view as you walk through open bushland and more heavily timbered areas.

Opening times

The park is open every day of the year. Gates open at 8.30am and close at 7.00pm during daylight saving. Outside of daylight savings, the park closes at 5.00pm.

Trail features

Gallery

Sugarloaf & Christmas Hills Circuit Hike (15km)

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Walk map and GPX file

Sugarloaf & Christmas Hills Circuit Hike (15km)

Total distance: 14944 m
Max elevation: 265 m
Min elevation: 169 m
Total climbing: 326 m
Total descent: -326 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Sugarloaf Reservoir Park.

From Melbourne travel via Doncaster, Eltham, Reservoir, Kangaroo Ground and Watsons Creek. Continue on Eltham – Yarra Glen Road to Simpson Road (this is the entrance to Sugarloaf). Saddle Dam Car Park is on the left just beyond the dam wall.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Diamond Creek, Doreen, Hurstbridge, Whittlesea, Yarrambat

Access conditions

2WD Access
Accessible Toilet
Picnic Shelter
Picnic Table

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Sugarloaf Reservoir Park? 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

Reviews

Sugarloaf & Christmas Hills Circuit Hike (15km)

11 Reviews on “Sugarloaf & Christmas Hills Circuit Hike (15km)”

Overall rating

Trish Kelp

MaxandJanet Wiggins

24/03/2022, 05:18

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1. Trish Kelp
  
  MaxandJanet Wiggins I’d like to! Just went to sign up and it’s already full ?
  
  24/03/2022, 05:18
  
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2. Trish Kelp
  
  MaxandJanet Wiggins on that
  
  24/03/2022, 05:18
  
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3. Sharee Gaiser
  
  Our backyard! This is a lovely spot.
  
  24/03/2022, 05:18
  
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  1. Vaughan Bowman
    
    Rhiannon Riches this is close
    
    24/03/2022, 05:18
    
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    1. MaxandJanet Wiggins
      
      Wait list???
      
      24/03/2022, 05:18
      
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Elly Mac

I did it last year and it was a lot harder than we expected…. it was also about 25 degrees and hot!!! Not many kangaroos out. Saw more kangaroos at lysterfield lake

24/03/2022, 05:18

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Amanda S

A lovely, fairly easy hike around the reservoir with numerous trail markers to keep you from getting lost. There’s a fair few different terrains you get to walk in. We had beautiful weather the day we went and were lucky enough to see a group of wallabies feeding just off the track.

24/03/2022, 05:18

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Andrea Jansen

Fiona

24/03/2022, 05:18

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Fiona Wright

Great hike! Watch out for Magpies if going in September! I got swooped A LOT and had to carry a stick for safety – at least 7 or 8 different magpies wanted a piece!

24/03/2022, 05:18

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Paul Boicovitis

Great hike. Recommend a packed lunch and to stop at the top of the â€œbigâ€ climb and enjoy the views. About 4hrs total walk time if you hustle.

24/03/2022, 05:18

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Donna Spiller

Kerrie Battisson our this on our list

08/11/2020, 13:06

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Acknowledgement of Country

Sugarloaf & christmas hills circuit hike (15km)

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance