Natural Bridge Walk is a 4km, grade 3 hike located in Budj Bim National Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 2 hours to complete.
Hike overview
This short walk leads to the Natural Bridge, an ancient lava flow where the roof has collapsed which you can enter and explore. At the end of the walk, you will come to a section where the roof of the lava flow remains intact, forming a cavern that you can explore. There's a good chance you'll spot koalas and kangaroos on the walk if you keep your eyes peeled. Carry a torch and wear appropriate shoes as the cavern is dark and slippery. This walk can also be commenced after driving along the Natural Bridge Road to the Natural Bridge carpark. A 200m walk from the carpark leads to the Natural Bridge cavern.
All walks start from the picnic area or the Lake Surprise Lookout carpark. Ensure you have good shoes for the uneven terrain. A hat, water and sunscreen are essential. You may encounter wildlife including snakes on these walks, as this is where they live. They are protected here. If you see a snake on the track leave it alone and wait for it to leave.
Camping and picnicking
The Picnic Area offers a tranquil setting for day visitors Facilities include picnic tables, barbecues and toilets. The campground is near Lake Surprise and adjacent to the picnic area. Sites are located in protected hollows between rocky ridges formed by ancient lava flows. Toilets, water (untreated, natural supply), hot showers and 10 shared fireplaces are provided. Most campsites can accommodate up to six people with provision for one vehicle.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 164 m
Min elevation: 109 m
Total climbing: 133 m
Total descent: -133 m
Trail location
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Getting there
Budj Bim National Park is located approximately 300km west of Melbourne. Macarthur is the nearest town to the Visitor Area and Campground. Hamilton is the nearest city to this end of the park. The road to Budj Bim National Park is sealed all the way to the visitor picnic ground. There is a short gravel road from there to the campground, about 200 metres. It is suitable for 2WD.
About the region
Budj Bim is a long dormant volcano. Budj Bim is the source of the Tyrendarra lava flow which extends over 50 kilometres to the southwest. It is central to the history of the Gunditjmara people. Budj Bim National Park is Victoria's first co-managed national park. The park is managed by Gunditjmara Traditional Owners and Parks Victoria.
The park's tranquil crater lake and pleasant bushland surrounds make it a pleasant place for picnicking, camping and bushwalking. Nature trails follow the old crater rim.
The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape has formally been recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is the only Australian World Heritage property listed exclusively for its Aboriginal cultural values. The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape features the earliest living example of aquaculture in the world, with a history of eel farming dating back over 6,000 years.
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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.