With lunch under your belt, it’s time to get those legs moving or have a crack at fishing.
Hanging Rock is only a ten-minute drive from Woodend and is well-known for its amazing volcanic rock formations and views from the summit.
Depending on how energetic your kids are, you can choose to hike along wide sealed paths to the summit of the rock. If an uphill hike isn’t your cup of tea, there are numerous walking paths and trails weaving through the reserve.
The summit walk is approximately 50 minutes return and is reasonably easy for people of average fitness. May take longer with young children in tow! However, you don’t have to make it all the way to the summit to experience unique rock formations and beautiful scenery.
Otherwise, bring a camp chair, fishing rod or hand line and have a go at catching a fish in the dam at Hanging Rock Reserve The dam is stocked each year with Rainbow trout. Don’t forget to organise a fishing licence beforehand!
End the day at Hanging Rock Cafe for a coffee, baby chino or afternoon tea snack before making your way home. Located within the reserve, the cafe boasts a roaring fireplace on chilly days and an al fresco dining area under the gum trees perfect for warmer months.
There is an admission fee to enter Hanging Rock reserve. The reserve is open daily from 9-5pm (except Christmas Day). Incoming gate closes 30 minutes before closing time.
Access to Hanging Rock itself is not permitted on days where winds above 40km/h are forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology. The reserve and picnic areas are still open on these days, and the café hours will be unchanged. The reserve will not be open to the public if a Code Red Fire danger day is declared.
*COVID-19 update: Please note Hanging Rock is currently open, but with restrictions, including the number of vehicles permitted access each eay. For the most updated information please see our FAQ page.