The hiking trails of Mount Towrong are enchanting, with moss, fungi and ferns interspersed throughout the bushland.

Highlights

  • Views across the Macedon Ranges from atop Mt Towrong
  • Lush pine forests and abundance of wildflowers and mushrooms
  • Sanatorium Lake

 

Lush, vibrant, energising; Mt Macedon and its surrounding ranges have the ability to set your senses alight. Just like out of the pages of a fairy tale forest, Mount Towrong is located only five minutes out of Macedon town centre and is a day-hiker’s dream. Set over three loops (including Camel’s Hump), you can traverse all three in around five hours, or cherry-pick your favourite if time or energy levels don’t permit.

 

Mount Towrong – Fungi Filled Forest an Hour From Melbourne, taryn hunter, hike, victoria,

Sanatorium Lake

A short loop located just next to the car park and picnic area, this trail takes you through dense, moss-covered trees down to the Sanatorium Lake, which was purpose-built to provide a water source to a hospital specialising in the treatment of tuberculosis, but was never built. Swimming isn’t permitted in the lake, but it’s easily accessible for families and dogs are allowed.

Mount Towrong

The Mount Towrong loop guides you down through the pine forest, through a zigzag of dense vegetation, before you start your ascent to the top of the mountain. We explored on a fresh autumn morning and the ground was a bit slippery and muddy heading down, so make sure you wear suitable shoes and pack your favourite winter warmers.

 

Mount Towrong – Fungi Filled Forest an Hour From Melbourne, taryn hunter, hike, victoria,

 

The hike up is slightly strenuous but manageable for anyone of moderate fitness. You’ll wind your way up past designated camping areas and wombat holes to the summit. The view from the top is definitely worth the effort, with sweeping views back over the Macedon Valley and surrounding hills. Take care on the steep rocky descent, especially if you’re a touch afraid of heights like me, as the steps down are narrow and can be slippery if wet. 

Camel’s Hump and Hanging Rock

There’s more to explore nearby, with Camel’s Hump just a stone’s throw away. It’s a moderate but short hike just over 1km to a picturesque view, filled with much birdlife. Head over to Hanging Rock to keep the adventure going!

Read more: Camels Hump & Hanging Rock in the Macedon Ranges (VIC)

 

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Essential Gear

  • Shoes with good grip
  • Food and water
  • First aid kit
  • A small backpack
  • Hat

How To Get There

Follow Hume Hwy/M31 and National Highway M31 to Seymour-Tooborac Rd/C384 in Seymour. Take the C384 exit from National Highway M31. Take Seymour-Pyalong Rd, Lancefield-Pyalong Rd, Pyalong Rd and C324 to your destination in Mount Macedon. Turn left onto Lions Head Rd and park in the Lions Head Road car park.

Skill Level

Intermediate

Depending on whether all sections of the trail are completed. The Sanatorium Lake loop is easy for a beginner and can be completed with children. Mount Towrong is suitable for a more experienced hiker, with some steep climbs and a rocky ascent or descent, depending on the direction taken around the loop.

Distance Covered / Elevation Gain / Duration

The three loops in total cover 17.4km, Sanitarium Lake a quick 500m, Camels Hump covering 1.1km and Mount Towrong the biggest effort at 15.8km, with a peak elevation of 574m.

There’s a lot of flat terrain, with a number of steep ascents and descents thrown into the mix. The entire trail takes around five hours, but can be completed in smaller bite-size sections.