
Explore Western Victoria this September
Western Victoria is bursting with natural beauty, from the lush rainforests of the Otways, to the rugged peaks of Gariwerd (Grampians), the volcanic wonders of Tower Hill, and the windswept coastal cliffs around Portland. This September, Try Bushwalking Month is your chance to lace up your boots, join a local club, and discover trails you may never have walked before.
Whether you’re new to bushwalking or a seasoned explorer, there’s a walk to suit everyone. Friendly club leaders will guide the way, sharing their knowledge of nature, local history, and hidden gems. It’s also the perfect way to meet new people, get active, and enjoy the fresh air.
Here’s what’s on in Western Victoria this September:
Otways & Central West
- Otways Rainforest Walking – Camperdown Bushwalking Club
Tue Sep 2, Ferguson to Beech Forest
Explore rainforest, ferns, and the Jewel of the Otways, Melba Gully.
Grade 1, <5km - Bald Hill Reserve – Gisborne Bushwalking Club
Wed Sep 3, near Kyneton
A gentle beginner-friendly walk in beautiful forest.
Grade 2, 6–10km - The Mallee in Melton – CAEX Bushwalking Club
Sun Sep 14, Melton
Discover a surprising patch of Mallee scrub in an impressive gorge.
Grade 3, 11–15km - Burchell Track North – Melbourne Bushwalkers
Sun Sep 21, Brisbane Ranges NP
A full-day hike on the rugged Burchell Track.
Grade 3, 16km+ - Helge Track, Glenluce – Gisborne Bushwalking Club
Sun Sep 28, Glenluce
Rolling hills, pristine forests and pure air.
Grade 3, 11–15km
Grampians (Gariwerd)
- Gar Falls & The Wall – Wimmera Bushwalking Club
Sun Sep 7, Northern Grampians
Rugged cliffs, waterfalls and mountain views.
Grade 3, 6–10km - Beehive & Gar Falls – Grampians Bushwalking Club
Sat Sep 13, Dadswells Bridge
Waterfalls, heathland and dramatic cliff scenery.
Grade 3, 6–10km - Majestic Mt Sturgeon – Camperdown Bushwalking Club
Sun Sep 21, Dunkeld
A rewarding climb to sweeping summit views.
Grade 4, 11–15km
South West Coast & Portland
- A Walk in the Bush (Info Session) – Friends of the Great South West Walk
Fri Sep 19, Portland Library
Build confidence with tips and resources for safe walking.
Grade 1, info session - Tower Hill Meet Up & Ramble – Warrnambool Bushwalkers
Sat Sep 20, Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
A relaxed nature walk with morning tea.
Grade 2, 6–10km - Cape Nelson Stroll into Nature – Friends of the Great South West Walk
Sat Sep 20, Portland
Stunning sea cliffs and coastal views.
Grade 2, 6–10km
Ballarat & Surrounds
- Woowookarung Grass Tree Gander – Ballarat Bushwalking Club
Tue Sep 23, Woowookarung Regional Park
Easy-paced walk among masses of grass trees.
Grade 2, 6–10km
Why Join In?
These walks are led by welcoming and knowledgeable bushwalking clubs – no need to worry about maps, navigation, or safety. You’ll discover new landscapes, make friends, and maybe even find a new favourite trail.
All you need to do is choose a walk, register, and show up with sturdy shoes, water, and a sense of adventure.