The Tallarook Northern Circuit is a challenging 21-kilometre grade 4 hike located within Tallarook State Forest, Victoria. Expect to dedicate 7-8 hours to complete the entire circuit.
The trail begins at the intersection of Freeman and Jenkins Roads. Head east along Jenkins Road for roughly 400 metres before turning right (south) onto Bills Track. After following Bills Track for approximately 1.6 kilometres, you'll reach the junction with Main Road. As Main Road is a gravel access track and less scenic, the circuit utilizes a series of narrower tracks through the bush. These include Jenkins Road, Georges Road, Amy Road, Bridge Road, and Falls Link Track, ultimately connecting you to East Falls Road.
From East Falls Road, head north towards Tassie Camp and Warragul Rocks. Roughly 500 metres north of the Warragul Rocks junction, a track branches off to the left. This section leads to another campsite before continuing north along the eastern bank of Falls Creek towards Trawool Reservoir. Be aware that this section features a rough, steep, and eroded track that winds through a secluded valley with granite tors, fern trees, and a sense of remoteness.
After passing the Trawool Reservoir campground, continue east, turning right onto Reservoir Track. This track will lead you to West Falls Road after a short distance. Follow West Falls Road for 1 kilometre before turning left onto No. 2 Loop Track. At the next junction, turn left back onto West Falls Road, continuing south until you reach Henry Track. Follow Henry Track to Freeman Road, which will take you back to the trailhead.
It's important to note that a significant portion of this route follows four-wheel drive tracks, which can be rutted and boggy after rain. While designed as a long day hike, the circuit can also be completed as an overnight adventure. If opting for an overnight stay, Tassie Camp, located approximately 9.5 kilometres from the trailhead, is the recommended campsite.
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: 20788 m
Max elevation: 675 m
Min elevation: 441 m
Total climbing: 598 m
Total descent: -598 m
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Accessing the Tallarook Northern Circuit trailhead requires navigating to the intersection of Freeman and Jenkins Roads within Tallarook State Forest. Travellers from Melbourne can take Citylink/M2 north, following signs for Hume Freeway/National Highway M31. Continue on M31 until the Ennis Road exit situated between Broadford and Seymour. Turn onto Ennis Road and follow it until you reach Freeman Road. The trailhead is located at this junction.
Remember that some forestry roads within Tallarook State Forest are subject to seasonal closures, typically running from the Thursday after the Queen's Birthday holiday to the Thursday before Melbourne Cup. Be sure to check for signage or gates indicating closures, and for the most up-to-date information, contact the Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI).
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The Tallarook State Forest, encompassing 5,100 hectares of mixed eucalypt forest, lies roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes north of Melbourne.
The land traditionally belonged to the Kulin Nation, with the Taungurung people acting as stewards. Evidence of their presence can be found throughout the forest in the form of scattered artefacts and scarred trees.
European settlement brought gold mining to the area in the 1870s, leading to the establishment of towns like Strath Creek and Reedy Creek. The following decade saw the rise of sawmilling, with many mills operating within the forest boundaries. Notably, Tallarook also served as a military training ground. Limited timber harvesting and military training continue to this day.
Camping and day-trip opportunities abound within Tallarook State Forest. Freemans Camp and Picnic Area, situated near the intersection of Main Road and Freemans Road, is the only location with amenities such as toilets, picnic tables, and barbecues. Unfacilitated campsites can be found at Flat Rock, Trawool Reservoir Camp, and Tassie Camp.
Trawool Reservoir:Â Built in the 1890s to supply water to Seymour and the nearby railway, Trawool Reservoir features a 350-foot long and 23-foot high granite weir constructed from ashlar masonry. While no longer used for its original purpose, the reservoir holds water year-round and remains a scenic attraction within the forest. The spelling of the reservoir's name was changed from Traawool to Trawool in the early 1900s. The area is popular for picnics and fishing, although there are no designated facilities.
Mount Hickey:Â Standing at 405 meters above sea level, Mount Hickey is the highest point in the forest. It houses a Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) fire lookout tower, staffed during most summer days. Public access to the tower is restricted.
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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.
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.
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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