Long Forest Nature Conservation Reserve, Bacchus Marsh

Long Forest Nature Conservation Reserve is a 600-hectare protected area boasting over 400 native plant species and over 160 bird species, a haven for hiking on the doorstep of Bacchus Marsh.

An area unique in its geology and landscape, the park is rich with birdlife, spring wildflowers and ancient rock forms, making for a perfect day of bushwalking and birdwatching.

Car parks with information boards are located at the entrance to the Happy Valley Track and on Canopus Circuit, and there are a number tracks which lead walkers through rocky woodland slopes and along Coimadai Creek and Djerriwarrh Creek flats.

Keep an eye out for echidnas, koalas, Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Black Wallabies, while Brushtail Possums and Sugar Gliders are active by night.

Visitors take note: Long Forest Nature Conservation Reserve does not offer campgrounds, drinking water or toilets (although you’ll find a lovely area for a picnic at the Happy Valley Trailhead), and dogs are not permitted in the reserve.