Pyramid Hill - Hill Walk
Pyramid Hill is named after the adjacent granite hill with its many interesting rock formations.
A cairn on the southern slopes of the granite pyramid commemorates the explorer Major Sir Thomas Mitchell who discovered and named this area on June 30th 1836 during his journey into "Australia Felix". From the top of the hill, which rises 187m above sea level, there is a wonderful view of the township and surrounding irrigated farmlands.
A 2 km safe and attractive pathway winds around the base of Pyramid Hill, linking an existing 3km walk from the town. For the more adventurous the track also extends across the "saddle" of the hill.
Wildflowers abound in the spring and the hill reserve is a popular picnic spot with tables, a barbeque and toilet facilities.
On June 30 1836 Major Thomas Mitchell climbed a granite outcrop rising 187m from the rich soils of the northern Victorian plains and from this vantage point surveyed the surrounding area. He named the mount 'Pyramid Hill', a reflection of its remarkable symmetry when viewed from a distance.
In 1872 a settlement bearing that name was established on the southern side of the hill. With the arrival of the railway in 1885 the growing township was relocated to its current place west of the hill.
From the car park on the southern side of the hill a trail loop of 1.8km takes you around the base of the mount. A 600m return trail also climbs to a vantage point in the saddle where a wonderful view of the township, nearby hills and surrounding farmland is on offer. From the saddle one can return south to the car park, scramble to the summit or continue north on unformed track to meet the base loop trail.
Things to see
The Plains Grasslands around Pyramid Hill support sparse woodland, a variety of grasses, saltbushes and groundcovers. The hill itself presents a range of microclimates that many plant species have exploited forming Rocky Outcrop Shrubland. Many wildflowers appear at certain times of the year and the vegetation is habitat to a wide range of birds, reptiles and marsupials. Black Wallabies are regularly sighted amongst the Deane's wattle, the most common small tree in the reserve. Birds of prey, including the Wedge-tailed Eagle, find the plains grassland habitats particularly suitable, they nest in tall old gums and utilise the thermal updraft caused by the hill for spotting prey on the plains below. The region also boasts some of Victoria's largest Brolga nesting sites.
Other places of interest nearby worth exploring include Mount Hope to the north, Terrick Terrick National Park to the southeast, Loddon River wetlands to the west and Kow Swamp to the north-east. All may be visible along sections of the trail.
Location
Leitchville Pyramid Road, Pyramid Hill 3575 Map
Web Links
→ Pyramid Hill Trail (PDF)
