Trip Report – Toolangi State Forest

Trip Report by Dean Herman, March 2018

Perfect Autumn Weather

The first weekend of autumn brought ideal hiking conditions. After recently exploring the Murrindindi Scenic Reserve, I returned to the Toolangi State Forest to explore the western slopes of Mount Tanglefoot.

With plenty of time available, I completed the combined Myrtle Gully Circuit and Tanglefoot Loop, including side trips along the Wirrawilla Walk and up to Mount St Leonard.

Starting at Tanglefoot Picnic Area

I began the hike at the northernmost point of the trail network, the Tanglefoot Picnic Area. Heading west before turning south, I took the higher eastern leg of the north-south loop. Thanks to an early start and the elevated ridgeline, I was greeted by the first rays of sun filtering through the towering fronds of countless giant tree ferns. As the trail opened onto more exposed terrain, I was rewarded with views of the remaining Mountain Ash trees, now an endangered species in this region.

Heading South to Monda Car Park

The journey south took just over two hours and ended at the Monda Car Park. Although the car park has no real facilities, it is a helpful waypoint for longer walks heading south or east towards Donnellys Weir, Dom Dom Saddle, and other destinations.

Side Trip to Mount St Leonard

From Monda Car Park, I followed Monda Road west to reach the Mount St Leonard Car Park in the adjoining Yarra Ranges National Park. From there, it is a short but steep climb to the summit. The fire observation tower at the top offers panoramic views of the Yarra Valley, including Kinglake National Park, Mount Macedon, Melbourne, and Mount Dandenong.

Return via Sylvia Creek and Wirrawilla Walk

The return journey followed the western leg of the Tanglefoot Loop. From Monda Road, the trail gradually descended into the valley of Sylvia Creek. Along the way, it passed through cool gullies filled with temperate rainforest and tree ferns. At the base of the valley, the Wirrawilla Walk offered a welcome break. This shaded, accessible boardwalk winds beneath the rainforest canopy and is ideal for families and visitors with limited mobility.

Climbing Back to Tanglefoot

From the Wirrawilla Walk, the trail climbed once again up Mount Tanglefoot, eventually rejoining the eastern leg of the loop and returning to the Tanglefoot Picnic Area. Along this final stretch, there were occasional glimpses of Sylvia Creek and a small, shaded waterfall tucked away near a flight of stairs.

Trail Conditions and Final Thoughts

Like most trails in the park, those I followed were wide and generally well maintained. A few obstacles, such as fallen trees, slippery rocks, and occasional muddy sections, required moderate mobility but posed no major difficulty. Interpretive signs throughout the area help hikers identify local bird and animal species protected within the park. Navigation was straightforward, with clear signage matching the official trail maps. However, if the weather turns bad, conditions can become more difficult, so it is wise to check the park’s information sheets before setting out.

The entire route totaled approximately 22 kilometres and took around six hours to complete. It was a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding day on the trail.