Bright - Canyon Walk

Explore historic mining races on this popular walk that follows the Ovens River to a small rocky canyon. This walk is 2.5km but a 4.9km option is available.

The Ovens River downstream from Bright passes through a spectacular canyon, with sheer cliffs up to 15 metres high, which provide excellent lookout points. Two cable swing bridges cross the river, providing further viewing points. Past mining activity is evident along the walk, and is explained in a series of interpretive signs. The first section passes through parklands near the town and is well paved, suitable for families and people with disabilities. The canyon section is steep and rocky in places, especially on the north side.



Start at Howitt Park, which has a nice playground, and follow the sealed path west on this easy walk along the Ovens River. When you reach the suspension bridge, you can either cross to return along a formed track, or for a longer (Grade 3) loop, continue northwest to cross at a second suspension bridge.

Map of Route

Review:

This is an exciting and interesting walk with suspension bridges, evidence of historical gold mining, plenty of interpretative panels and some artwork.



There are a few variations on this walk but we started at Howitt Park where there are plenty of facilities such as a shelters, tables, BBQs, toilets and water taps. We headed west on the south side of the Ovens River. At Star Road look out for the murals on the pylons of the bridge. We crossed the bridge and continued westwards on the northern side of the river and crossed at the furthest suspension bridge.

There are plenty of views down to the river from the high cliff walls at a number of points and some opportunities to get down to the river for a paddle. In Autumn the colourful trees add an additional highlight.

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Location