Distance: 8 Km | Duration: 2.5 Hrs | Grade: Grade 2 | Rating: | Style: One Way | Map
About the Walk
Overview
This is a varied walk that includes some beach walking over unusual rock formations, a short road walk and some walking through Otways forest. It passes through an area rich in wildlife: particularly koalas, wallabies and parrots, and offers some spectacular views of the coast and ocean.
The Walk in Detail
The walk begins by descending onto a rocky beach and following it south towards Kennett River. If the tide is very high or the weather very stormy the walk will start in Kennett River itself. The footpath across Kennett River is on the inland side of the road bridge and the road needs to be crossed with caution (1). Once across the bridge, head initially towards the cafe/store and take the tree lined Grey River Road which starts adjacent to it (2). Follow the road for about 500 m until it passes under powerlines (3). Follow the cleared easement to the left, up the steadily rising ground to the west (look out for the wallabies and koalas), eventually arriving at Mt Meuron, 200 m above sea level (4). At the summit, leave the easement and follow the service road through forest to the northwest again striking Grey River Rd, turn left and follow the forest road for about 500 m as it climbs around a spur and swings west. About 200 m past the bend, adjacent to a small dam, a firebreak heads south over high ground (5). Turn left following the firebreak, pass through a gate and another left turn (6) (downhill) before reaching the extensive downhill southward forest track to a cleared area below powerlines immediately to the east of the Grey River estuary. Walk north for a short distance to reach a gate on the right and the Great Ocean Road (7). Cross the road and follow the footpath to the road and continue for 100 m to finish at the picnic area between the road and the beach. For those who want more, there is the option of a 2 km return beach walk south of the Grey River.
Getting There
The walk starts on the Great Ocean Rd where it is joined by the Kennett Rd. This is about 35 minutes / 22 km from Lorne. There is space for roadside parking. A car shuffle to Grey River will take about 20 minutes.Walk Precautions
There is a steep downhill section through thick forest where a walking pole would be useful, especially if the track is wet and slippery.