Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve sits in a large volcanic crater. It is a notable geological formation in Victoria. Volcanic cone-shaped hills surround the lakes. It’s a quick detour from the Great Ocean Road and provides various walking options for everyone – from easy boardwalk trails to scenic climbs.
Significance of Tower Hill
The Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is known for its beautiful natural attractions, especially Tower Hill, a volcanic crater with geological importance that stands out from the surrounding plains. There are breathtaking views of the hills within the crater’s lake from various points along the 11 km rim. Road access allows visitors inside the crater, with several kilometres of hiking trails.
The crater walls are made from ash layers and are a prominent feature of this unique landscape. A wetland, perfect for observing native birds, can be found on the crater floor. Koalas, emus, kangaroos, and wallabies can often be seen in the car park area. The bushland has been restored through a revegetation program after significant clearing by early settlers.
The Gunditjmara People have a long history in the area, and their Indigenous heritage is showcased at the Tower Hill Visitor Centre. The centre is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, offering geology, fauna, flora, culture, and Indigenous arts and crafts displays.
Where is Tower Hill?
Tower Hill is off the Princess Highway between Warrnambool and Port Fairy, approximately 275 kilometres west of Melbourne. Situated in the stunning Great Ocean Road region, it is roughly an hour’s drive to the northwest of the 12 Apostles and equidistant from Port Fairy and Warrnambool, both of which can be reached in just a few minutes by car.
There are signs at the car park that guide you towards various hikes of different lengths, lookout points, and other attractions.
How did Tower Hill form?
Tower Hill was formed approximately 30,000 years ago through a volcanic eruption, gradually developing in different stages. The outer rim was initially created during the eruption, while the smaller hills, such as scoria cones and spheres, were shaped through subsequent bursts.
Indigenous people of the Gunditjmara Nation have historically occupied the area for a significant amount of time. Upon the arrival of white settlers, the area underwent land clearance activities to facilitate cultivation, logging, and mining.
Reforestation of Tower Hill started in the 1960s after the area’s importance was acknowledged. Experts in botany, conservation, and science initiated the restoration efforts based on a thorough painting from the 1800s by Eugene Von Guerard, depicting the original plant life surrounding the crater. A replica of the painting can be viewed at Von Mueller’s Lookout, conveniently reachable from the road.
The landscape of Tower Hill is constantly changing due to natural erosion and bushland regeneration.
Explore the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve offers a variety of opportunities for those seeking to explore Australia’s native animals, geological formations, and walking paths. Its rich history and strong connection to nature provide plenty of options for travellers eager to experience the outdoors.
Tower Hill Visitor Centre
The Tower Hill Visitor Centre in Australia was designed by renowned architect Robin Boyd, known for his culturally sensitive designs. The centre provides panoramic views of the park and is inspired by the dormant volcano it sits upon.
The Worn Gundidj Aboriginal Cooperative and Parks Victoria runs the Tower Hill Visitor Centre. The centre features educational exhibits about the natural park area and the history of the local aboriginal people.
Worn Gundidj Guided Tours
The Worn Gundidj Aboriginal Cooperative provides guided Great Ocean Road tours led by knowledgeable local guides for those interested in experiencing the land from an indigenous perspective.
The Indigenous culture & nature tour run lasts for two hours. It offers guests the opportunity to learn about the habitats of local wildlife, as well as the history and culture of Indigenous communities. The guided bush tours depart twice daily, Tuesday through Saturday, at 10 am and 1 pm.
Self-Guided Walks
In addition to guided Great Ocean Road tours, self-guided walks are available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. These walks cater to different hiking skill levels, offering options ranging from accessible boardwalks to challenging scenic climbs.
Regardless of which route you select, there will be plenty of chances to observe native bird species, such as blue wrens and fully experience all the park offers.
Tower Hill Peak Climb
The Tower Hill Peak Climb is a challenging hike that may be difficult for inexperienced hikers. However, for those who are prepared, it offers an exciting opportunity to explore the dormant volcano at the heart of Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve.
This hike allows visitors to see stunning views of hidden crater lakes and wetlands where wild birds can be found. When hikers reach the summit, they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic national park views.
Wagon Bay Loop
This walk is suitable for beginner hikers who want to explore the parkland. It is primarily flat, with some steps to climb in certain areas. The trail makes a loop around Wagon Bay Pond, providing opportunities to observe native birds in their natural wetland habitat.
The fertile volcanic land is home to various bird species like Banded Stilts, Superb Fairy Wrens, and Black Swans. Visitors may also have the chance to see iconic Australian wildlife, such as emus and kangaroos.
Lava Tongue Boardwalk
This walkis suitable for all family members. Visitors will have many opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife found at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, including wallabies, possums, emus, kangaroos, and vibrant parrots.
The walk goes over a lava flow from the former volcano. The boardwalk trail across Fairy Island is about 1.6km long.
Journey to the Last Volcano
This is the longest and most challenging hike. The path winds through the most recently active volcanic crater and includes steep ascents.
For those interested, the Journey to the Last Volcano hike provides stunning scenery and the chance to encounter local wildlife such as emu and kangaroos.
The walk takes around one hour to finish and covers a closed circuit spanning 1.9km.
Wagon Bay Loop
This walk is suitable for beginner hikers who want to explore the parkland. It is primarily flat, with some steps to climb in certain areas. The trail makes a loop around Wagon Bay Pond, providing opportunities to observe native birds in their natural wetland habitat.
The fertile volcanic land is home to various bird species like Banded Stilts, Superb Fairy Wrens, and Black Swans. Visitors may also have the chance to see iconic Australian wildlife, such as emus and kangaroos.
Articles about Great Ocean Road
