Hanging Rock (Woodend)
.jpg "Hanging Rock (Woodend)")
Hanging Rock is a rare volcanic formation located near the townships of Woodend & Mount Macedon in Victoria, Australia.
It is home of the Hanging Rock Cup & Races, and setting of the world renown novel & film Picnic at Hanging Rock. It is also home to various events and a wide array of native flora and fauna.
Said to be the best example of a volcanic plug or mamelon in the world. Since its formation, the mamelon has been exposed to considerable weathering and erosion, resulting in a conglomeration of unusual rock formations that can now be seen on the site.
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Places of Interest on The Rock
Hanging Rock Reserve is registered by Heritage Council of Victoria. Featuring a distinctive and rare geological formation, the Reserve has been a popular recreational destination since the 1860s for its picturesque setting, spectacular views, climbing and horseracing.
Activities
Many families make their own fun with games of cricket, bocce or football. However, there are many activities provided at the Reserve. If you've packed your fishing rod, throw a line into the dam and try to catch a fish. Tennis courts are available for hire, and if you're here on the right day, you can join the local petanque club for a social game.
Nature Walks
Nature walks - ranging from easy to medium-grade - traverse the Rock and take in the surrounding bushland, providing close up views of the native flora and fauna that abounds in the Reserve. And of course, there's a wide path for an energetic climb to the top of the Rock. The walks are:
Summit Walk - This is a 1800m (50 minutes) return trip classified as a class 3 walking track. A warning sign at the start of the walk states "The climb to the top of Hanging Rock is strenuous and can cause fatigue. Those suffering any medical conditions are advised to take extreme care. The Hanging Rock Committee of Management accepts no responsibility for any injury or loss sustained by persons using this area. Because of steep rock edges, keep on tracks defined by arrows at all times and keep a proper lookout."
Base Walk - 1800m (30 minutes) return trip
Creek Walk - 2300m (40 minutes) return trip
Events
A number of exciting events are held at Hanging Rock during the year, including music concerts, car displays, craft markets, fun runs and the popular picnic horse races on New Years Day and Australia Day. Other events include an annual outdoor screening of the iconic film 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' and a Camp Out.
Night Walks
Guided night walks are also offered in the warmer months. For more information please check website, speak to the rangers or contact 5422 0387 during office hours. Bookings essential.
Hanging Rock Discovery Centre
This is the ideal place to start your discovery of Hanging Rock. Wander through and learn more about the history and geology of the Rock. Discover how and when the rocks were formed, and what did happen to the school girls who were the subject of the famous book and film? Hands-on interpretative displays will help you on your journey of discovery. This is located near the cafe.
Picnics and BBQs
There are many picnic tables, several shelters, and numerous barbeques located within the Reserve. Otherwise, throw a rug on the lawns and enjoy your picnic. For large groups, picnic shelters and certain other areas can be reserved for your private use. Please phone 5422 0387 during office hours well in advance to reserve your location. (Fees apply). There is a basic playground in the reserve.
Flora and Fauna
Nearly one hundred indigenous plants can be found at Hanging Rock which comes alive with colour in spring and summer. Around forty species of birds, including the popular rosella and cockatoo, make their home at the Reserve, as well as many mammals, one of which, the greater glider, was not known in the area before the 1980s. Other indigenous species that you may come across during your visit include koala, kangaroo, wallaby and echidna. The Reserve abounds with native animals; however, they are all wild and should not be approached, bothered or fed. Please Note: Snakes occur naturally in this area. If you see a snake, remain calm and avoid disturbing it.
Hanging Rock Cafe
Forgot your picnic basket? The cafe is the answer with fresh country fare served daily. A great place to relax and take in the peaceful surrounding of the reserve, take you pick of the indoor dining room or the al fresco patio. Modern contemporary cuisine is served fresh daily, prepared by a local chef using local ingredients. Fully licensed. Bookings may be required on event days.
Opening Hours:
Opening Times
Cost:
Entry Fees
Access for Dogs:
Pet dogs are welcome at the Reserve (excluding major event days) but must be kept on a leash at all times. Dogs are not permitted to ascend the Rock itself on the Summit Walking Trail as it is home to many native animals. The map below shows areas where dogs are not permitted (brown cross-hatching)
Review:
This is an iconic destination which deserves a visit.
The walk to the rock starts near the cafe. The park closes at 5pm so do not commence the summit walk after 4pm. The path to the summit is an asphalt path which is quite steep. At a point you can choose to take steps or a ramp. The first level you reach has lots of rock scrambling opportunities and then it is a further walk up to the actual summit. At the top there are lots of little tracks through the huge boulders and great views. It's a great area to explore all the nooks and crannies. Particularly if it is wet, be careful because the rocks can be slippery. Keep a lookout for koalas in the trees since we saw one near the summit. Someone might get lost up here amongst all the boulders but I'm very confident that they will be found eventually.
If you're looking for the actual Hanging Rock you need to take the stairs either to or from the summit to see it.
Almost everyone will be able to reach the top of Hanging Rock with some determination and a bit of huffing and puffing.
The cafe is fairly expensive with slow service but the food is good there. We would advise taking a picnic and enjoying the outdoors.
You need to pay the $10 admission fee (per car) to get out of the park. Payment is accepted by card or cash notes but not coins.
Photos:
Location
139 South Rock Road, Woodend 3442 Map
✆ (03) 5427 0295 (Cafe) / 1800 244 711 (Park)
Web Links
→ Hanging Rock
→ Hanging Rock Cafe on Facebook
→ Hanging Rock Map (PDF)
