Tipperary Track (15km)

Summary

Tracing the route of the old water races cut by miners last century, the Tipperary Track passes disused goldfields, mineral springs and stands of deciduous trees that blaze with colour in autumn. Look out for the Blowhole, a tunnel built to divert water and allow sluicing for gold in the dry creek bed. Reward yourself with a relaxing spa and massage at journey’s end in Hepburn Springs.

You can hike this trail in either direction, starting at Lake Daylesford or to Central Springs Reserve. The first section takes you to Twin Bridges where you cross the Midland Highway and walk to Tipperary Springs.The next section is from Tipperary Springs to Bryces Flat, then onto Breakneck Gorge and Liberty and Golden Springs. Then to Jackson’s Lookout to finish at the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve.

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. Mt Franklin is a small volcanic crater with basic camping set amid exotic trees.

Getting There

From Melbourne CBD travel over the Westgate Bridge and take the Western Ring Road until the left Western Highway exit with signs to Ballarat. Once on the Western Highway travel for about one hour until the Ballan/Daylesford turnoff. After taking this left exit turn right toward Daylesford and travel for around 30 kilometres then follow the signs to Lake Daylesford.