Forest, Water & Stone: Maroondah Dam to Donnellys Weir gr3 [Mod] 7.2km 247 elev
Details
There’s a quiet kind of magic in this part of the Yarra Ranges — a landscape shaped by tall forest, flowing water, and the gentle presence of old stonework. This walk invites us to slow down, breathe deeply, and settle into the calm rhythm of the bush as we explore one of the region’s most atmospheric pockets.
## ✨ What You’ll See & Experience
This walk moves through one of the most quietly enchanting pockets of the Yarra Ranges — a landscape where tall forest, flowing water, and old stonework come together in a way that feels both grounding and deeply alive.
Jade will be guiding us as we wander through cool mountain ash forest, where the air carries the scent of damp earth and eucalyptus, and the canopy softens the light into gentle, shifting patterns. The Watts River adds its own steady soundtrack — a calming flow threading through the gullies and feeding the reservoir downstream.
The landscape is rich with wildlife. You may see Eastern Grey Kangaroos moving quietly through the trees, often pausing just long enough to be noticed before slipping away again. Crimson Rosellas bring flashes of red and blue to the canopy, and if we’re lucky, the layered mimicry of a Superb Lyrebird may echo through the undergrowth. On warm days, native reptiles sometimes appear on sunlit rocks and fallen logs.
As the forest opens, the historic Maroondah Dam comes into view — its stone wall rising above the valley, framed by deep green slopes and the stillness of the reservoir behind it. The dam’s architecture creates a natural amphitheatre for sound, and the nearby Echo Tunnel carries voices in playful, resonant waves.
Further along, the moss‑covered remains of the old aqueduct offer a glimpse into the region’s early water‑supply history — weathered, atmospheric, and slowly being reclaimed by the bush.
This is a place where forest, water, stone, and sound meet in a way that feels spacious, restorative, and deeply connected to the land.
## 🚶♀️ The Walk
- Distance: ~7 km
- Grade: Grade 3 (Moderate) — suitable for walkers comfortable with some hills, stairs, and uneven terrain
- Terrain: Forest paths, gravel tracks, short steep sections, steps, and shaded gullies
- Pace: Gentle, steady, and spacious — time to notice, breathe, and enjoy the landscape
## 🎒 What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water
- Snacks or a light lunch
- A warm layer — the forest can feel cool even on mild days
- Optional: camera, walking poles
## 🌦 Weather & Cancellations
If the weather becomes unsafe — heavy rain, strong winds, or conditions that make the trail unsuitable — the event may be postponed or cancelled. Any updates will be posted on the Meetup page.
## 🌐 About Our Community
This event is part of club.hiking.org.au, a free online community where you can download GPX files, share your outdoor adventures, and connect with others who love exploring just as much as you do. It’s a friendly space to learn, plan, and get inspired for your next trip.
Because Adventures are Meant to be Shared!
## ⚠️ Safety Disclaimer
This is a social, community‑led outing, not a guided or professionally supervised activity. By attending, you accept responsibility for your own safety and wellbeing.
The route includes natural hazards typical of outdoor environments. Please consider your fitness and comfort level, bring suitable gear, and support others in the group as we move through the terrain. If conditions change or anything feels unsafe, we’ll adjust the plan together.
Our volunteers may carry first aid supplies and communication devices to support the group, but these are not a substitute for personal preparedness. We also recommend having active ambulance cover whenever you take part in outdoor activities.
All participants must read and agree to the club’s activity terms before attending: 👉 https://hiking.org.au/tos