Lake Elizabeth Circuit is a 4.7km, grade 2 hike located in Great Otway National Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 1.5 hours to complete.
Hike overview
Lake Elizabeth is a picturesque lake near Forrest. The Lake Elizabeth Circuit is short but is a really beautiful hike and well worth the visit. The lake was formed due to a landslide, giving it a unique character.
The hike is approx 1km to the first viewpoint of the lake. Many people turn back here, but the circuit around the lake is well worth doing. You will see the route to your right once arriving at the lake. It is roughly 2km around the lake. Once you have completed the circuit return back along the original track to return to the car park.
Lake Elizabeth is hidden deep in the Otways. Discover its inspiring beauty with heavily timbered flanks and calm waters punctuated by the trunks of dead trees, drowned when the valley was flooded more than 50 years ago to form this "perched lake". The elusive platypus can be found in the waters of the lake - wake up early or head to Lake Elizabeth at dusk to catch a glimpse of these shy Australian natives.
There is a campground situated on the bank of the east branch of the Barwon River sheltered by tall Eucalyptus trees. A scenic 20 minute walk takes you to Lake Elizabeth.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 279 m
Min elevation: 226 m
Total climbing: 270 m
Total descent: -274 m
Tips
The circuit can be done either way, but it best done anti clockwise (head right when arriving at the lake) as this has the nest approach to views of the lake.
Trail location
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Getting there
From Melbourne head to the village of Forrest via M1, C135 and C119. Once at Forrest follow the signs to Lake Elizabeth via Kaanlang Rd (it is well signposted).
About the region
Great Otway National Park stretches from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and up through the Otways hinterland. Discover windswept coastlines and breathtaking waterfalls in tall mountain forests, walk the iconic Great Ocean Walk, immerse yourself in the Otway Lightstation's history, or surf some of the best breaks in Australia. Enjoy the great outdoors and explore the wonders of the Great Otway National Park. Great Otway National Park is in southern Victoria, Australia. It covers rugged coastland, beaches and the mountains of the Otway Ranges. Waterfalls dot the park, including the 3 cascades of Triplet Falls. Boardwalks lead through temperate rainforest at Maits Rest. The 1848 Cape Otway Lightstation perches on cliffs overlooking Bass Strait. Great Ocean Walk leads through the park to the Twelve Apostles rock formations.
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Explore Safe
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.
Let someone know
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Gear to consider
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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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.
3 Reviews on “Lake Elizabeth Circuit Walk (4.7km)”
Great little circuit ??