Delicate native orchids along the trail
As part of Little Mount Crawford Native Forest Reserve, the
Jenkins Scrub walking trail wanders through a diverse vegetation remnant with plenty of wildflowers to see in the spring months. We visited on the first weekend of October and spent almost two hours admiring the rich variety of flora species along this short 1.6-kilometre circuit.
Old gold digging site
Starting at the trailhead on Mount Road, we headed clockwise towards an old gold-digging site at the top of the rise. The mine operated during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of Gumeracha Goldfields. Unfortunately, with only a small quantity of gold found, it wasn't as profitable as other mines in the surrounding area. Do stop and have a look when you're roughly 400 metres into your walk.
Spider orchid
There were various herbs and shrubs forming the understorey of the woodland, as well as delicate native orchids. I seem to be constantly intrigued by all the different shapes and sizes these orchids come in, regardless how many times I've gone hunting for them. What is there not to love about flowers that actually look like spiders, or even donkeys?
Donkey orchid
If you're interested in wildlife, keep an eye open for echidna diggings especially beneath the blue gums. Possum droppings and scratches on trees could sometimes be seen too. And, of course, there's bound to be a kangaroo or two leaping around.
Bridge on way back to carpark
With about 200 metres to go, we crossed a small bridge on the way back to the carpark. It was a sunny day when we were there, but the trail does look like it could get slippery after heavy rain. So, just be mindful of the weather as you're planning your walk.
The walking trail
Finding the trailhead is easy. As you drive along Mount Road, you'll see a sign indicating Jenkins Scrub located pretty much opposite the private Murray Vale Road entrance to Mount Crawford Forest headquarters. Parking and picnic facilities are available there.
Sign indicating Jenkins Scrub
Lastly, just a note for those wanting to contribute to citizen science recording, please don't be caught out by mobile data limitations. Even if you've downloaded
iNaturalist beforehand, you'll still need network to record what you see. It was my first time using the app and I ended up learning the hard way.
