Pound Bend River Walk (Warrandyte)
The 2.4km return (1.2km each way) Pound Bend River Walk is a gentle bushwalk along one of the most picturesque sections of the Yarra River in Warrandyte State Park. Starting from Pound Bend Reserve, the trail follows the river upstream beneath towering manna gums, passing peaceful riverbanks, rocky outcrops and beautiful stretches of riparian forest.
One of the highlights of the walk is the historic Pound Bend Tunnel (also known as the Evelyn Tunnel). Built in 1870 during the Victorian gold rush, the 145-metre tunnel diverted the Yarra River so miners could work the exposed riverbed in search of gold. Today, visitors can watch the river surge from the tunnel outlet and learn about this remarkable feat of engineering through interpretive signs.
The walk is rich in wildlife, with colourful parrots, kookaburras, waterbirds and occasionally kangaroos, echidnas and even platypus seen along the river. During spring the bushland is dotted with native wildflowers, making it an especially enjoyable time to visit.
Although the track is well defined, it includes uneven bush surfaces, exposed tree roots and a few short inclines, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The rocks around the tunnel and river can be extremely slippery, particularly after rain, and visitors should take care near the water.
Pound Bend Reserve also makes an excellent picnic destination, with open grassy areas beside the Yarra River. Many visitors combine the walk with a picnic, canoeing, fishing or simply relaxing by the river.
Facilities include car parking, toilets, picnic tables, BBQs and open grassed picnic areas.
Pound Bend River Walk Map
Interactive map
Points of Interest
1. Indigenous History
A place rich in Indigenous history, Pound Bend Reserve features interpretive displays that educate visitors on what the environment was once like and why certain areas hold cultural significance.
2. Picnic Area
A beautiful spot for a picnic, the Reserve features several picnic tables and grassy areas for visitors to spread a blanket. The tall Eucalypts throughout provide ample shade on warmer days.
3. Yarra River
The lifeblood of the city of Melbourne, the Yarra River passes peacefully through the Reserve and alongside the walking trail.
4. Tree Hollows
The various tree hollows along the path are often inhabited by breeding pairs of birds in the spring months.
5. Boardwalk
Some sections of the trail are boardwalks, providing visitors with a vista through the trees towards the Yarra and a spot to stop and reflect.
6. Eastern Grey Kangaroos
Walkers may be lucky enough to spot these iconic marsupials alongside the trail.
7. Birdlife
The large trees along the trail make excellent homes or roosting spots for many species of bird, such as galahs.
8. Flowering Plants
In the spring and summer months, walkers will find a wide array of attractive flowering plants as they follow the trail along the Yarra.
Note: This walk can easily be extended into the excellent Pound Bend Yarra Loop Walk (approximately 3.6 km, 1.5 hours) for visitors wanting a longer circuit through Warrandyte State Park.
Access for Dogs:
Dogs are not permitted.
Location
Cnr Pound Bend Road and Everard Drive, Warrandyte 3113 View Map
Web Links
→ www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/sites/pound-bend-river-walk
→ Pound Bend Reserve (Walking Maps)
→ www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/sites/pound-bend-reserve
