Flinders – Cape Schanck

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NB. The following information was current at the time of the event

Distance:  16 Km   |  Duration:  Hrs   |  Grade:  TBA   |  Rating:    |  Style:  One Way

About the Walk

Overview

A cliff top traverse with great views along the coast including views across Western Port Bay to Phillip Island and the Nobbies. There are views toward Cape Schanck and Pulpit Rock taking in the Blow Hole and Bushrangers Bay on the way.  Car shuffle required.

The Walk in Detail

A cliff top traverse with great views along the coast including views across Western Port Bay to Phillip Island and the Nobbies. The walk is along a narrow strip of the Mornington Peninsula National Park bordered by the sea and farm land. There are views toward Cape Schanck and Pulpit Rock taking in the Blow Hole and Bushrangers Bay on the way. Sections of the walk before the Blow Hole are through thick tussock grass where there is no track.  After the Blow Hole there is no defined track and the grass can be quite long. Steep descents and ascents can be expected through several creek crossings.

The start of the walk provides views across the Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary (1) and lots of bird life. We will drop down to the beach and depending on the tide walk to the end of Ocean Beach before making our way up onto the cliff tops where the track eventually descends to Double Creek (2). From here the track is through thick tussocky grass (3) and can be difficult.

The first point of interest is the blowhole (4). As we explore this area with a small volcanic plug forming a headland, we must be mindful of large rogue waves. From here we continue along the coast toward Tea Tree Creek(5) where there is a small waterfall and the site of a lime kiln quarry. At this point we enter private property (6). Permission has been sought and respect of gates and fences is expected from all walkers. It is expected we may cross electric fences and care will need to be taken. Bushrangers Bay (7) is a good place for lunch and another opportunity to explore. It is at the mouth of Main Creek and may be difficult to cross at high tide and after good rain.

Leaving the beach we climb steeply up some steps to the main Cape Schank Track (8) with occasional views along the coast and our destination. Once we reach the Cape Schanck car park (9) we will descend the steps to Pebble Beach and Pulpit Rock, a large basalt volcanic plug representing volcanic action millions of years ago. Great camera spot!  Retrace route back to Cape Schanck car park and car/s.

Getting There

This walk starts at car park, West Head Lookout on Golf Links Rd, Flinders (Melways ref: 262 B10) and ends at Cape Schanck car park (Melways ref: 257 F10). From Point Nepean Road turn left (south) on Boneo road and drive along Boneo road about 24 kms to Cook Street Flinders. At the roundabout turn right on Wood street then veer left on Bass street then right at Golf Links Rd. Drive beside the Golf course to the entrance of the RAN Gunnery Range and the car park.

Walk Precautions

Walkers need good footwear and ability to walk on rough untracked country, some rocky coastline and negotiate electric fences. Be aware of flying golf balls and cars when walking through the Flinders Golf Course. Car shuffle required.

Additional Information

There is a kiosk at Cape Schanck.


Yes
TBA

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