Picnic at Ellis Brook Valley Reserve, 60’ Falls, Barrington Quarry - loop (9km)

Come and join us for a picnic, but first let’s earn it.
Hayley asked us for this one. It is a stunning walk and given that summer is approaching it is appropriate to do this whilst the weather is still mild. Expect temperatures from 18°C to 24°C during the walk, the sun will be shinning but we have good canopy for most of the time.
This is an amazing and popular walk. We will start at the lower carpark of Ellis Brook Valley Reserve. A nice 1.5km walk leading to the start of the steep track to the top of the 60 Foot Falls. The winter rains have passed and the falls will be quite reduced. A walk around the back block through some stunning forest to the highest point of the track before we descend around the rim of the Old Barrington Quarry and then walk right into this peaceful haven with its lakes and steep walls. Next we climb up the northern side of the valley to another high point with stunning views to the city before making our way back to the car park to enjoy a picnic with our friends.
Where
Lower car park RHS near the entrance of Ellis Brook Valley Reserve (Click the pin drop on the map for the exact location to use on your GPS)
Distance
8.9km. Elevation gain 355m and about 2hrs 45min of walking time.
Difficulty
We will have easy walking to the falls then expect a few steep ascents and descents. Hilly, dirt tracks in the back block and the side of the valley of medium difficulty with a couple of steep sections. This walk will test your fitness due to the longer distance and known 'up/down' nature of the terrain, I'd suggest this for regular walker only - probably not a route for first timers, transition back to fitness and/or injury recovery....
What to bring
Water, good hiking shoes, hat & sunscreen. I would recommend walking poles if you have them.
Toilets
Toilets at the carpark near the entrance.
Picnic after the walk
There are no cafés near this area so pack a thermos of nice hot coffee, a cool drink and a picnic for a chat afterwards. Some of us make toasted wraps or sandwiches which are a treat given the BBQs provided in this area along with seats, tables and shelters.
AllTrails route can be viewed here: Ellis Brook Valley & 60 foot falls.

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We aim to set-off for each walk at the advertised time and as a general rule, we set off on-time for each walk.
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