Maits Rest is a convenient option for those with limited time, are accompanied by children, or have difficulty walking long distances, as it offers a glimpse of the rainforest.
The Great Ocean Walk features several notable sights along its route, including Maits Rest. Maits Rest is a stunning rainforest walk that spans 800m and is located just 17 km from Apollo Bay, alongside the Great Ocean Road tour.
Why is it called "Maits Rest Rainforest Walk"?
In 1914, during World War I, Maitland Bryan served as the first forestry officer in the Otway region. Maitland would take breaks in this stunning rainforest area during his patrols from Apollo Bay to Horden Vale or along the Lighthouse Road to Cape Otway.
It would have been hushed then, with only a dirt track from this trail to Apollo Bay. The road from Apollo Bay was only paved in the 1980s, and this route was opened in 1993 after it had been made safer for walkers to experience its unique atmosphere.
To learn more about the history of our area, visit the Apollo Bay Museum.
How hard and long is Maits Rest Rainforest Walk?
The Maits Rest rainforest walk is approximately 800m long and can be completed in about 30 minutes, following its marked circuit.
Taking breaks on the benches, listening to the birds, and enjoying the sounds of water flowing through the ferns and under the footpaths can make your stay there longer.
The track has been recently refurbished and features a metal grid underfoot for the convenience of visitors walking with prams or elderly family members.
Some sections of the whole track may be challenging for wheelchairs due to uneven terrain. Parks Victoria has categorized the walk as Grade 2, indicating a relatively easy slope.
A car park is available at Maits Rest rainforest walk, conveniently located near the Great Ocean Road, allowing for easy access by car.
Toilets are unavailable in the car park, and dogs are prohibited on the trail.
Walks at Maits Rest
The Great Ocean Road is a highly recommended destination for visitors to Australia due to its breathtaking cliff scenery, untamed rainforests, and numerous natural landmarks.
Maits Rest is located near Apollo Bay and allows visitors to explore the natural scenery. The boardwalk takes you through the rainforest and provides a 30-minute walk where you can see ancient trees and colorful plant life. Visitors can explore distinctive landscapes, observe indigenous fauna, and learn about the natural history of this particular region of Australia.
The surroundings are filled with impressive Myrtle beeches rising while moss covers the floor, creating a surreal atmosphere reminiscent of a scene from a fairytale.
Maits Rest is a section of the Great Otway National Park, known for its diverse bird species. The region is also home to animals like swamp wallabies, koalas, ring-tailed possums, and kangaroos.
One of the best times to visit is during twilight, when the rainforest transitions from day to night, allowing you to use a torch and explore the enchanting glow worms illuminating the stunning scenery.
Maits Rest has flowering Mountain Ash Trees
Endangered Species
The myrtle beech (Nothofagus cunninghamii) plants used to be widespread across the land mass of Gondwana, and they can still be found in South America and New Zealand. Fossilized beech trees have also been discovered in Antarctica.
When walking in Maits Rest, observe the small leaves on the ground, indicating the presence of myrtle beech trees; appreciate the beauty of their canopies by looking up.
One of the myrtle beech trees in Maits Rest is over 200 years old and comprises multiple merged trees. It is considered unique and is listed as a significant tree on the National Trust of Australia’s register.
Maits Rest has flowering Mountain Ash Trees
When walking on the trail, it is essential to remain observant for signs of moss bugs (Peloridiidae). These tiny insects, measuring only two to four millimeters in length, have existed for 153 million years and can be found in myrtle beech forests. They are present on continents across both sides of the Pacific Ocean.
Meat-eating land snails are also found at Maits Rest, so caution should be taken while walking on the trail. The endangered Otway Black Snail (Victaphanta compacta) inhabits this area.
The shell of this delicate object is thin, black, and glossy, with a diameter of up to 25 mm. It would be fortunate to come across one.
Get tips at Maits Rest
Maits Rest is often crowded due to its picturesque wildlife and scenery. To avoid the crowds and have a more personalized experience, consider taking the longer walk at Melba Gully towards Princetown via Lavers Hill. This trail takes you deeper into the rainforest, allowing you to explore the untouched areas of the forest and its surroundings.
This part of Australia offers visitors a diverse range of scenery, from the stunning beaches of the Great Ocean Road to the lush forest landscapes further inland. Maits Rest allows one to explore the forest scenery and stay within the main path.
The route on the Great Ocean Road can be pretty busy, especially during popular times of the year. However, it is highly recommended to visit if you are interested in learning about the ancient plant life and experiencing the diverse wildlife and scenery of the area.
Overall, the walk typically lasts about 30 minutes from beginning to end, providing a condensed glimpse of rainforest life in Australia.
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