Nestled in Healesville in the beautiful Upper Yarra Valley, Maroondah Reservoir Park is a stunning location for a picnic and a walk. The park, which is more commonly known as the Maroondah Dam, is home to a huge dam wall holding back about 22,000 megalitres of water (one of several catchments supplying Melbournians with water).
The dam wall
Construction of the dam was completed in 1927, and a walk to the top rewards with spectacular views over the catchment area on one side and the landscaped gardens below on the other.
View from the top of the dam wall
The walk to the top of the dam includes tackling the Rose Stairway and then a short (but not flat) track to the dam wall. The walk isn't long, but can be strenuous – bring some water, especially if you visit during the warmer months. You can walk the entire length of the wall and take some time to enjoy the view.
The Rose Stairway
The top of the dam wall
In addition to the dam wall, there's lots to do and see at the park. Visit the spillway to see the water splashing and spilling just metres away (this spectacle is more impressive during the wetter months), or explore the 3km native bushland track leading to Donnellys Weir Park.
The spillway
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – you might see King Parrots and Crimson Rosellas in the trees, and maybe even a lyrebird, echidna or wallaby nearby.
The park is well supplied with wood barbecues, and the wood is supplied for public use. Get comfortable at one of the picnic tables or seek shelter in one of the rotundas while you enjoy your picnic or barbecue. Bring a picnic blanket if you prefer to lounge on the grass.
One of the picnic and barbecue areas at the park
You'll also find a playground for the kids and lots of space to run around.
And, importantly (especially after a drive from Melbourne), you'll find public toilets just by the main carpark.
The park is open daily from 8:30am – 5:00pm but be sure to take note of the gate closing time when you arrive.
Click
here for more information about the park, including special needs access.
Don't forget to make the most of your trip and check out what else Healesville has to offer. Here are a few links for more information about Healesville:
Healesville Link 1
Healesville Link 2
Healesville Link 3
