Located just 80km west of Melbourne you will find a relatively unknown mountain range. Haven't heard of
Brisbane Ranges National Park? You are not alone.
The ranges are a scenic wonder of Victoria, just a short drive from Melbourne's Western suburbs. Imagine the beauty that comes with any national park – scenic views, gorges and creeks, along with nature and wildlife, minus the crowds.
Next time you are after a day out of the city, getting back to basics, you should definitely consider the Brisbane Ranges. The national park caters to any taste, it doesn't matter what you are after.
Bush walks are in abundance and vary in lengths and difficulty. Most popular is the relatively easy Anakie Gorge walk, which has sealed parts to begin with before getting slightly more difficult as it gets into the gorge. For the more daring you can climb Nelsons Track up to Nelsons Lookout to find spectacular sweeping views at the top. If views are your thing 'the Outlook' also offers panoramic views over the surrounding area and across to neighbouring You Yangs.
For the more adventurous walkers, there is the three day Birchell Trail which takes you right through the park, showing off all the ranges have to offer. It starts at the historic gold mining town of Steiglitz, and makes its way right through the middle of the park from one end to the other. Just on a side note though, if you are interested in doing the Birchell Trail, you will have to register and pay to be able to stay overnight in the park. Click here to
book.
Koala at Boar Gully
For those more interested in flora and fauna, according to their website the park boasts more than 180 bird species both migratory and not. On top of that, there are plenty of koalas to see and other native wildlife such as possums, kangaroos and sugar gliders. The Brisbane Ranges are also home to 619 different types of Victoria's native flora. Even more uniquely the park is home to the Brisbane Ranges grevillea which is found nowhere else in the world.
In terms of picnic locations around the park there are a range of options. At the car park for the walking trail to Anakie Gorge there is a gas barbecue and tables for comfort. Other picnic facilities dotted around the park are more basic, with wood barbecues available (BYO wood). The bottom line is, if creature comforts are not so important there are plenty of options!
Camping options are available in the park, but booking is necessary (see above link to book online). Before entering the park I would recommend getting some stocks from Bacchus Marsh, especially if you are as unorganised as me!
So next time you're at a loose end, and feel like getting out of the city and seeing something a bit different go check out the Brisbane Ranges National Park. You will never guess you are so close to the city.
