Distance: 12 Km   |  Duration: 5 Hrs   |  Grade: TBA   |  Rating:   |  Style: Return   |  Map
About the Walk
Overview
<p>A there-and-back walk up Mt Riddell in the Yarra Ranges National Park. A gradual climb at first, becoming steeper nearer the top with great views over the Maroondah Reservoir, mountains and valleys from cleared viewing points.</p>
The Walk in Detail
The walk starts on Mt Riddell Road at the gates marking the boundary of the Yarra Ranges National Park. From here the closed access road (Road 2) wends its way through the forest, climbing gradually up Mt Riddell. The climb becomes steeper about two thirds of the way up the road but affords great views of Maroondah Reservoir and the surrounding countryside.
Stop at a flat grassed area on a saddle for lunch/rest stop before walking to the summit of Mt Riddell. The walk to the summit is along an overgrown track, then goes off track following a series of yellow stakes to the cairn marking the summit. Return the same way to the grassed area. This takes about 45 minutes. In this off-track section, there were many signs of lyrebird activity and we could hear one singing, so there is a possibility of sighting a lyrebird on this part of the walk.
It is a 650m climb from the start of the walk to the cairn at the summit. Return the same way so it is downhill all the way to Mt Riddell Road.
Getting There
Melway Map 278
Where do we start?
At the gates marking the boundary of the Yarra Ranges National Park on Mt Riddell Road.
How do we get to the start?
From Healesville Sporting Complex take the Mt Riddell Road which is the 3rd road on the right. Follow Mt Riddell Road for just over 2 km until reaching the gates at the end of the road. (Melway Map 278, F2)
Walk Precautions
Good walking boots/shoes and poles recommended because of steep climb/descent. The section to the summit is off-track and requires negotiation over roots and fallen tree branches.