Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 779m
Min elevation: 544m
Total Ascent: 2000m
Hike overview
This Werribee River Mount Hope Circuit commences at the junctions of the Ballan-Daylesford and Bunding-Blakeville Roads. From the small car park, follow the vehicle track in a south easterly direction.
The track up to Mt Hope requires a lot of scrambling through and arounds large trees that have fallen across the track.
The second half of this hike includes a couple of camping areas and beautiful scenery around the Werribee river where you will follow a narrow track.
This hike has fewer offtrack sections and is slightly longer than the Werribee River Mt Hope Circuit 1.
Tips
- This circuit follows a combination of dirt roads/4wd tracks, creeks and off-trail sections.
- You should always carry a map and compass and possess good navigation skills.
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: 779 m
Min elevation: 544 m
Total climbing: 2000 m
Total descent: -2010 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Wombat State Forest.
From Melbourne’s CBD, follow M1 and National Highway M8 to Ballan-Daylesford Rd/C141 in Ballan. Take the C141 exit from National Highway M8. Follow Ballan-Daylesford Rd/C141 to Bunding-Blakeville Rd in Bunding and park your vehicle in the space near the junction of the Ballan-Daylesford Rd.
Closest towns to this walk: Bacchus Marsh, Ballan, Barrys Reef, Blackwood, Clunes, Darley, Daylesford, Gisborne, Greendale, Hepburn Springs, Kyneton, Macedon, Maldon, Melton, Spargo, Trentham, Woodend
About the region
Wombat State Forest, located near Blackwood in Victoria, is a fantastic destination for anyone who loves walking, bushwalking, or hiking. Just 90 kilometres northwest of Melbourne, this expansive forest is home to a network of trails that wind through towering eucalypts, fern-filled gullies, and rugged landscapes shaped by centuries of natural forces. With a variety of tracks catering to different fitness levels, it’s a place where both casual walkers and seasoned hikers can find a trail that suits their style.
Rich in biodiversity, the forest supports an array of native wildlife, from echidnas and wallabies to the elusive Powerful Owl. Among the dense undergrowth, rare plant species like the Wombat Bush Pea thrive, adding to the ecological significance of the area. The forest also plays a crucial role as a water catchment, feeding the headwaters of the Lerderderg, Moorabool, Coliban, Campaspe, and Loddon rivers, which in turn sustain communities and natural habitats beyond its borders.
One of the standout features of Wombat State Forest is its mineral springs. Accounting for over 80% of Australia’s mineral springs, these waters are naturally enriched with calcium, silica, magnesium, iron, and sulphur. Many visitors enjoy stopping at these springs to sample the unique mineral-rich waters, which have long been valued for their supposed health benefits.
Beyond hiking and bushwalking, the forest offers plenty of outdoor activities, making it a great spot for a day out or a longer adventure. Four-wheel driving, mountain biking, birdwatching, and picnicking are all popular pastimes here. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll beneath the towering gums or a more challenging hike through rugged terrain, Wombat State Forest has something to offer.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Wombat State Forest? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
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.
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.
4 Reviews on “Werribee River Mount Hope Circuit 2 Hike (17km)”
Not a bad hike with a nice little climb to Mount Hope. Has certainly lay made me interested in exploring more around this area.
Great circuit. Was a fun day out with the family. Heaps of trees down at the moment though.