Lorne - Ocean Walk - St George River
A delightful riverside walk that takes you through a variety of vegetation communities. Many birds frequent the area. The first section of the walk is through Coastal Reserve land and you enter the Great Otway National Park at the Allenvale Mill Car Park. This walk has a low river crossing on the St George River which should not be attempted when river levels are high.
Walk Summary
Starting Point: Mouth of St George River on the Great Ocean Road (near #2300), Lorne
Time and Distance: 5.5 km circuit (2hr)
Level of Difficulty: Moderate There are some stretches of uphill walking; hiking sticks recommended
Walk Notes
Follow the uphill grassy track from the open flats of the St George River to the bridge over Cherry Tree Creek. Take the Ocean Walk track which branches off to the right and climbs gradually up to Allenvale Road. The valley is very beautiful with tall eucalypts, tree ferns, Prickly Currant-bush, Musk Daisy-bush, Golden-tip, and native pittosporum (Banyalla) being features of the vegetation. After approximately 1.5 km the track divides with both branches leading to Allenvale Road – the right-hand branch is less strenuous.
Once you reach Allenvale Road turn left and walk downhill along the road to the Allenvale Mill car park. From here follow the St George River Track sign which directs you to the narrow walking track that will lead you back to the Great Ocean Road. This section of the walk alongside the St George River is delightful as it takes you through the eucalypts and the tall understorey of other vegetation. There are some excellent views over the river with its fern-lined banks, and the sound of the water lapping on the rocks is most peaceful.
As you cross the river take time to lean on the bridge rail and look up at the tree-clad hills. They are most spectacular with the sunlight filtering through the trees. You will come to the river crossing which should not be attempted if the water level is high. After crossing the river continue until you once again come to the bridge over Cherry Tree Creek. Then retrace your steps until you reach the car park at the river mouth. Some very fine ocean views can be seen from this downward section.
How to Get There
Cross the Erskine River bridge at Lorne and drive west on the Great Ocean Road for 3.5 km to the St George River. There is a small car park on the inland side of the Great Ocean Road.
Guide to Walks in the Great Otway National Park Eastern Section
You can also purchase a full colour booklet produced by the Friends of Eastern Otways containing detailed track notes and maps for 38 walks in the area from Great Escape Books in Aireys Inlet, the Anglesea News & Lotto or the Angair website.
Location
Sheoak Picnic Area, Garvey Track, Lorne 3232 View Map
Web Links
→ Friends of Eastern Otways
→ feo.org.au/walks/walk-33-ocean-walk-st-george-river
