Description

The Macedon Ranges is a beautiful location about an hour and half from Melbourne.

It’s home to natural wonders, gushing waterfalls, cosy mountain huts and spectacular hiking trails.

The route that takes it all in? The 16km (5 hour) Macedon Ranges Walking Trail. From Bawden Road leading out of Mount Macedon, the trailhead proper begins on the right and winds its way up the slopes of Mount Macedon (with a slight detour for the peak) before skirting around the foothills of the mountain and past a number of picnic sites.

If you have supplies and are feeling strong the detour to the top of Camel's Hump is worth the trip for the spectacular views.

Continuing along the trail, Sanatorium Lake is a great place to take a break, before rejoining the trail.

There are a number of trails that lead back into town, but to avoid roads as much as possible follow Zig Zag Track, before taking Hemphills and Mount Towering Tracks. A long, challenging hike, the Macedon Ranges Trail is a great opportunity to spot local wildlife, flora and fauna.

Although not particularly challenging, it is a long trail and you'll need to take food and water for the day.

Check local conditions before you head out as the area been affected by bush fires in recent years.