Mount Buffalo - Chalwell Galleries Walk
A natural adventure playground this walk starts near the Lake Catani Campground and passes through Snow Gums and up to a jumble of large granite rocks forming impressive passages. The climb through the Galleries is steep and narrow and challenging at times. Only suitable for those comfortable with heights and confined spaces.
The galleries are named after Ernie Chalwell, the stable master at the Buffalo Chalet in the 1940s and 1950s.
Spring and early or late summer is a great time of year to do this walk as the wildflowers along the track and around the lake are in bloom.
The walk track before reaching the Galleries (large boulders) is a natural path with only some steep sections but involves some rock climbing as your approach the centrepeice of the walk. After making your way through the galleries you'll head in a loop back towards the main road to Lake Catani.
Note: It can be easy to lose your way on this walk so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the 'orange arrows' attached to trees and boulders and follow them.
Chalwell Galleries Walk Map
Interactive map
Points of Interest:
1. Start from day visitor car park
Unless you're camping at the Lake Catani campground you'll likely start your walk from here. There are picnic tables beside the lake.
2. Camp ground toilet block
There are no toilets on the walk so you may wish to stop off here!
3. Walk south on the road
Follow the road towards the camp ground entry, and on to the start of the Chalwell Galleries track. Keep an ear out for approaching vehicles.
4. Walk track start
You'll see the start of the Galleries track here.
5. Wildlowers in spring and summer
Autumn is crisp and cool (be mindful in the wet) while early summer and spring rewards you with gorgeous native blooms for most of the track.
6. View of the Galleries
A lovely spot to view this impressive natural structure.
7. Follow orange arrows into the galleries
You'll need to keep an eye out, and yes - you do need to squeeze down there! Breathe in! Then follow the yellow ladder down ... Take care.
8. Light at the end of the tunnel
Keep going! There's a bit of a drop back down to solid ground.
9. Great views
Take a moment to enjoy this beautiful place.
10. Go right
Keep looking for the orange arrows (don't just forge ahead).
11. More rock fun!
Up and over or down and under?
12. Things gets a little easier
Just enjoy the walk!
13. The road
Take a right here and walk back along the road.
14. Views over the lake
Get inspired for your next walk!
15. Note: Alternate 'Old Galleries walk track'
If want a shorter walk you could try this alternate track - a 1km circuit walk. Drive here to the start of the Old Galleries Track.
Access for Dogs:
Dogs are not allowed.
Location
Mount Buffalo Road, Mount Buffalo 3740 View Map
Web Links
→ www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/sites/chalwell-galleries-walk
→ Chalwell Galleries walk, Mount Buffalo (Walking Maps)
