If you’re eager for an outdoor adventure – but also don’t want to commit to a hike that last several days – then you’re in the right place.
Ballarat might not be the first place you think of when you’re planning your next hiking adventure, but it certainly packs a punch with its exhilarating range of day hikes.
And what’s even better is the fact you won’t have to share your experience with hordes of outdoor adventurers!
Surrounded by extinct volcanos, old forests and picturesque views that seem to extend for days, you’ll definitely find a hike to get your heart pumping...
Mount Buninyong
At the top of this extinct volcano are arguably some of the best views of the Ballarat region.
As for getting there, you’ve got three options:
- the 1.2km Crater Walk with viewing platform (accessible for people with a disability)
- the 3km Zigzag Summit Walk
- the 3.5km South Walk to the summit via the Crater Walk.
Make sure you bring a camera because once you’ve reached the top of Mount Buninyong (which sits at 745m above sea level), you’re just a short climb up the fire tower away from 360-degree views across Buninyong and surrounds.
Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail
Don’t let the almost 60km distance scare you – it’s what makes this walk (or ride) so popular with locals.
You can start the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail any point along the former railway line and choose your own adventure.
However, we highly recommend checking out the Insta-worthy Nimons Bridge.
This 1850s hand-built timber trestle rail bridge is one the largest of its kind in Victoria.
Take a picnic and enjoy some of the trail's picnic spots or stop by Smythesdale's Courthouse Hotel for a classic pub meal.
La Gerche Forest Walk
Head to La Gerche Forest Walk and wander among 100-year-old trees planted by Creswick’s first forest bailiff, John La Gerche.
Signs along this 2.2km trail talk to the impacts of mining on the forest and La Gerche’s efforts to save the trees.
While you’re in Creswick, why not check out St Georges Lake.
Afterwards, head into the main street of Creswick and pick up a French pastry and coffee from Le Peche Gourmand (you totally deserve it!).
Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk
If you’re travelling from Melbourne, the Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk is an easy pitstop off the Western Freeway on the Ballarat side of Bacchus Marsh.
Start at the Meikles Point picnic area and follow the signed path, where you’ll find yourself experiencing heart-pumping hill climbs, shuffling along gorge edges and taking in spectacular views.
This 10km circuit can take up to 5 hours, depending on your fitness levels.
You’re bound to need nourishment after this walk, so continue your journey on to Ballarat and sit down for a late lunch and cold brew.
Whether you’re in need of juicy wings and double-stacked burgers, or you’re craving a bowl of squid ink pasta and vino, you’ll definitely find a meal that will have you wondering why you haven’t been to Ballarat sooner.
Lederderg State Park
After a hearty breakfast at one of our favourite cafes, hit the road to Lederderg State Park for a true bush experience.
Follow an old water race and hike part of the Great Dividing Trail or simply stroll along the river from Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area.
Then head back into Ballarat and spend your afternoon unwinding at the city’s popular brewpub, Aunty Jacks, or opt for a relaxing massage at the award-winning Ballarat's Sanctuary Day Spa.
Better yet, why not book a night’s stay at The Provincial Hotel and rest your weary head on one of their luxurious king-sized beds after filling up on a three-course dinner at in-house restaurant Lola.
Goldfields Track
If you’re looking for a longer adventure, then you’re going to want to pull out the hiking boots and hit the Goldfields Track.
This 210km trail between Ballarat and Bendigo takes mountain bikers and bushwalkers through some of Victoria’s most historic towns and forests.
Opt to tackle the entire track, choose the shorter 44km Eureka Track (which starts at Mount Buninyong and heads through the heart of Ballarat before plunging into gold rush era churned landscapes and on to Creswick), or simply pick two points anywhere on the track to explore between.
No matter your choice, you won’t be disappointed.
