Three Creeks Walk is a 14.5 km, grade 4 hike in Brisbane Ranges National Park in Victoria, and it typically takes around five hours to complete. The walk starts at The Crossing Picnic Area, about 2.5 kilometres west of the historic township of Steiglitz, and offers a varied circuit that links creeks, forest tracks, and sections of established walking routes.
From the picnic area, the walk begins by crossing the creek before following the road briefly. Soon after, the route leaves the road and drops into the creek bed, where walking conditions can be uneven and slower going. This section leads towards Youth Track and sets the tone for the day, with navigation requiring some attention due to the dense network of tracks and roads throughout the park. Carrying a detailed map or GPX file is strongly recommended to avoid confusion at junctions.
Large portions of the walk follow sections of the Burchell Trail, which is generally well marked and easy to follow. While the hike is not overly demanding in terms of steep climbs, it covers a mix of terrain including management roads, narrow bush tracks, and rocky creek beds. The landscape is typical of the Brisbane Ranges, with dry eucalyptus forest dominating the ridgelines and slopes, broken up by stands of grass trees that add texture and character to the walk.
As the circuit loops through the park, conditions change regularly. Rocky stretches along Grahams Creek contrast with wider four wheel drive tracks that pass through open areas and camping grounds such as Old Mill Camp and Fridays Picnic Camp. Much of the walk is shaded, making it more comfortable on warmer days, and the gradual climbs along the route provide moments to pause and take in the surrounding forest.
Three Creeks Walk suits experienced walkers who enjoy longer circuits with changing terrain and a sense of moving through different parts of the park in a single day. With careful navigation and a steady pace, it offers a rewarding way to explore the quieter corners of the Brisbane Ranges while following the natural lines of its creeks and tracks.
The Crossing Picnic Area
The Crossing Picnic Area offers a tranquil setting amidst the natural beauty of Yankee Gully. Situated within both the Steiglitz Historic Park and the Brisbane Ranges National Park, this location is an ideal rest stop for hikers and explorers. During the cooler months, the gully fills with water, creating a picturesque environment. Rocky hillsides provide a scenic backdrop to the picnic ground.
Visitors to The Crossing Picnic Area can enjoy a range of facilities, including picnic tables and wood-fired barbecues, spread across a spacious grassy area adjacent to the seasonal creek. While camping is not permitted at this location, the nearby Friday's Campground offers camping facilities for those seeking an extended stay.
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: 14327 m
Max elevation: 365 m
Min elevation: 245 m
Total climbing: 427 m
Total descent: -426 m
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Getting to the trailhead: Brisbane Ranges National Park.
To reach the Crossing Picnic Area, travel to the historic township of Steiglitz. The picnic area is located approximately 2.5 kilometres west of the town centre. From the vicinity of the Steiglitz Court House, follow the main road westward across the Steiglitz Bridge. Keep an eye out for a gravel road on the right-hand side. The Crossing Picnic Area is situated a short distance along this gravel road.
Steiglitz itself is situated 91 kilometres west of Melbourne, bordering the Brisbane Ranges National Park. It is positioned 40 kilometres north of Geelong and 54 kilometres southeast of Ballarat.
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Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Anakie, Bacchus Marsh, Ballan, Ballarat, Geelong, Gisborne, Gordon, Lara, Little River, Melton, Meredith, Mernda, Steiglitz, Werribee
Brisbane Ranges National Park, located west of Geelong and southwest of Bacchus Marsh, approximately an hour's drive from Melbourne, is Victoria's richest wildflower habitat and boasts the highest density of koalas in the state. This 7,700-hectare park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of walks, bushwalks, and hikes suitable for all fitness levels, from leisurely strolls to multi-day treks.
The park's unique geology, characterised by low mountain ranges intersected by rocky gullies, has preserved a remarkable array of plant and animal life. With over 619 native plant species, including the rare Brisbane Ranges Grevillea, the park is a botanist's paradise. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of birdlife, including over 170 recorded species.
Beyond hiking, the park offers opportunities for picnicking, scenic drives, and camping. It is also significant as part of the Aboriginal cultural landscape, being the traditional lands of the Wadawurrung People.
Find the best trails in Brisbane Ranges National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip.
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