Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 639m
Min elevation: 414m
Total Ascent: 840m
Hike overview
Tracing the route of the old water races cut by miners last century, the Tipperary Twin Bridges Circuit passes disused goldfields, mineral springs and stands of deciduous trees that blaze with colour in autumn. The circuit takes you past the Mistletoe Mine Site, the Blowhole, former Charcoal Burning Pits, a Quartz Burning Oven and Twin Bridges.
Commencing at the Tipperary Springs picnic area, you can hike this trail in either direction, either heading north via the Blowhole or south towards Twin Bridges. For some of the walk, you will follow sections of the Great Dividing Trail, following water races, steep gullies and vehicle access tracks. While most of the hike through the Hepburn Regional Park is through native bush, there are some sections along the western boundary where you will walk alongside pine plantations.
The picnic area is home to a mineral water pump and free-flowing spring where you can taste the natural mineral waters.
The Blowhole is a small circular tunnel cut through the side of the spur that blows hard when the river level is high. The tunnel outlet is elevated above the downstream creek by several metres, causing the water to spurt out over the rock face into the pool below. The 20 metre diversion tunnel was constructed in the 1870s to allow allow sluicing for gold in the dry creek bed. Given that the creek can be naturally dry for several months of the year, the benefit of the tunnel would have been marginal, and was constructed at a time when other areas had already been picked over.
Tips
This hike involves short sections of off-track walking and should therefore only be attempted by parties experienced in navigation. Boots and gaiters are advisable in creek and gully areas.
Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 639 m
Min elevation: 414 m
Total climbing: 840 m
Total descent: -840 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Hepburn Regional Park.
Follow National Highway M8 to Ballan-Daylesford Rd/C141 in Ballan. Take the C141 exit from National Highway M8. Take the C141 exit towards Daylesford. Continue on Ballan-Daylesford Rd/C141. Drive to Tipperary Springs Rd in Daylesford. Turn left to stay on Tipperary Springs Rd. Destination will be on the left.
Closest towns to this walk: Bullarto, Castlemaine, Clunes, Daylesford, Dry Diggings, Eganstown, Glenlyon, Hepburn Springs, Lyonville, Musk, Trentham, Woodend
About the region
Hepburn Regional Park nestles around the famous mineral springs townships of Daylesford, Hepburn and Hepburn Springs. Rich with natural springs and relics from the gold mining era, the park abounds with opportunities for bushwalking, mountain bike and horse riding, picnicking and nature study. Mount Franklin is a small volcanic crater with basic camping set amid exotic trees.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Hepburn Regional 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
Suggest an edit
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.
Acknowledgement of Country
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.