Walk Description
Distance: 14 kms
Estimated Walk Duration: 5 hours
Embark on a 14km circuit through the rugged beauty of Bungal State Forest—a little-known bushland gem tucked between Bungal Creek and the Moorabool River East Branch, west of Melbourne. This Grade 3 walk offers a mix of open woodland, scenic river views, grassy flats, and historic gold mining remnants. The first half of the hike follows forest management tracks through gently undulating terrain. But the real adventure begins in the second half, where the trail disappears and walkers follow the river’s winding course off-track. Expect some rocky scrambles, route-finding challenges, and the thrill of navigating through untouched bush. Keep an eye out for old stone chimneys and diggings—remnants of the region’s gold rush past. With no formal trails, this walk is perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and their navigation skills in a uniquely scenic and historic setting.
Transport
Transport to and from the walk location is by car. Please indicate your transport requirements and preferences on the booking request form when you book in.
If you don’t have a car, we can’t guarantee to provide you with a lift – this will depend on available drivers and their locations.
Passengers must pay the driver their share of car-pooling costs as described on the Car-pooling page. Please discuss the preferred method of payment with your driver.
Booking
Booking is required for this walk. Please indicate what similar walks you have done recently (i.e. in the past few months) to give the leader confidence that you are capable of doing this one. Refer to Walking Grades which, in conjunction with the walk description, will help you assess whether you have the required walking fitness and experience to do this walk.
The Leader will confirm your acceptance on the walk, or not, via email. The leader will provide details of where and when to meet.
Booking Fee:
Members: free. Non-members: $8.
Payment:
Non-members are required to pre-pay their booking fee by Paypal or credit/debit card.
Cancellation:
If you need to cancel, please advise the leader as soon as possible, so that someone else has the opportunity.
There will be no refunds, so please do not book unless you are fully committed to walking.
What to bring
• Day pack
• Sufficient water (2 litres, more on hot summer days)
• Lunch and snacks
• Hat, sun screen
• Suitable outdoor clothing (no jeans/sneakers!)
• Rainwear & warm jacket
• Proper walking shoes/boots
• Hand Sanitiser
Refer to our Gear Checklist page for more details. If you are not properly equipped, the walk leader can decide not to let you participate on this walk.
Safety and Ambulance Insurance
We strongly recommend that you have Ambulance cover. If conditions are hazardous, the walk may be cancelled. If any doubts at all, check your emails the night before and the morning of the event. For more details refer to Safety.
Still have questions?
Check out Joining a Walk.
Check out Day walks and social activities.
Contact the leader using the Enquiry form, above the Booking Request.
