Wombat State Forest
Wombat State Forest, which covers approximately 70,000 hectares, is a large re-growth forest just a short drive from Woodend which is used for four wheel driving, picnicking, bush walking, mountain biking and bird watching. Wildlife which can be seen here includes grey kangaroos, wombats, wallabies, echidnas, koalas and 150 species of birds.
The Department of Sustainability and Environment manages the forest and only permits four wheel driving, mountain biking, motorcycling and horse riding on made roads. Use of other tracks for these activities is strictly prohibited.
Wombat State Forest Mountain Bike Trails are 17km of well signposted and well maintained trails with an intermediate level of difficulty.
The Domino Trail Walking Track is an easy walk following the old railway line from the Trentham heritage listed railway station (no longer in use) into the Wombat Forest, does a loop in the forest and returns to the station.
There are a number of walking trails within the Wombat State Park.
Wombat Forest Drive
The following map can be used to plan a scenic drive through the forest.
The Wombat Forest Drive starts at Daylesford and takes in the scenic sites of the Wombat State Forest. The drive is approximately 65 km and will take a full day to complete if you wish to include a walk and explore the towns along the way.
Getting started
From Daylesford take the Trentham Road and travel approximately 15 km and take the Lyonville Springs turn-off on your left.
Forest Drive Circuit
Wombat Forest Drive
Grade: Easy 65km full day
Stop 1: Lyonville Mineral Springs
Lyonville Springs offers the chance to sample some of the best mineral water the district has to offer. The site is located in a peaceful bush setting and has picnic tables, barbeques and toilets.
Return to the Trentham Road and continue east and take the right turn to Trentham. Stop and explore the town or turn right at the Greendale Trentham Road and continue on to Blackwood.
In Blackwood take the right turn at Simmons Reef Road and follow the signs to the Garden of St Erth.
Stop 2: Garden of St Erth - Lerderderg Heritage River Walk
From the carpark at the garden of St Erth the scenic Lerderderg Heritage River Walk follows old water races and the Lerderderg River on a 9 km return walk. It will take approximately 3 hours to complete the walk which is graded moderate.
Once back in the car, exit the Garden of St Erth carpark and take the next turn left onto Lerderderg Rd (if you wish to return to Melbourne go back to Blackwood and turn right, follow the signs back to the freeway).
The forest route is marked with special Wombat Forest Drive directional signs. The forest roads are gravel roads but are generally suitable for 2 wheel drives driven with care. Please stay to your left as you meander along the winding road to Nolans Creek Picnic Area.
Stop 3: Nolans Creek Picnic Area
Nolans Creek is a picturesque picnic area home to a variety of birdlife. A short interpretative trail takes in the sites past sawmilling history. Barbeques and picnic tables are provided.
Continue along Lerderderg Road to Camp Road. Watch out for logging traffic from Nolans Creek onwards. Turn right at Camp Road and continue 0.5 km to the next stop, which is on your right.
Stop 4: Timber Harvesting
As well as providing clean water for towns, habitat for birds and animals and recreational opportunities, the Wombat State Forest also provides timber for the community's use. This site explains how the forest is harvested. You will have noticed signs of current and past harvesting of the forest along your drive.
Return back to Daylesford or Melbourne
Camp Road takes you back onto the sealed road at Bullarto South. Follow the signs to Daylesford which take you back onto the Trentham Road. Turn left for Daylesford or right for Melbourne via Woodend.
Note: Corner Track is an easy AWD track which has a good base of gravel and no deep ruts, although best in a 4WD in wet weather.
Location
Corner Track, Ashbourne 3442 Map
