More from Hanging Rock Reserve
Visit iconic Hanging Rock, Macedon Ranges
Let the secrets of Hanging Rock unfold before your eyes as you wind your way up to the pinnacle where spectacular views await.
PLANNING A VISIT TO HANGING ROCK?
Check out Frequently Asked Questions
Experience the Mystery of Hanging Rock
The unexplained disappearance of a group of schoolgirls at Hanging Rock in 1901 is just one of the legends of this mysterious area, and many visitors say they can feel the spirit of the girls as they climb the Rock. Joan Lindsay’s book and Peter Weir’s film about the ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock’ ensures that the mystery lives on…
Australian Wildlife at Hanging Rock Reserve
Over 40 species of birds nest around the reserve, including bright rosellas and cockatoos, while mammals like the greater glider enjoy towering eucalypts. You may even spot native species such as koala, kangaroo, wallaby and echidna.
Walks +Things to see and do at Hanging Rock Reserve (See the Hanging Rock Map )
- Experience Australian plants and animals
- Make your way along the breathtaking Hanging Rock Summit Trail
- Pram-friendly walking paths weave through Hanging Rock Reserve
- Picnics and barbecues with stunning views of Hanging Rock are popular
- Large groups can reserve a covered barbecue picnic shelter
- Fish for trout in the dam (bring your fishing rod and remember your fishing licence)
- Hanging Rock Discovery Centre – enjoy the history, mystery and geology of the Rock
- Hanging Rock Cafe for lunch, and a glass of wine, or coffee and cake (licensed and dog-friendly)
- Keep an eye on the What’s On page for upcoming events
- Plan to visit often? Purchase a Hanging Rock annual pass
PLAN YOUR VISIT TO HANGING ROCK RESERVE IN VICTORIA’S MACEDON RANGES
Opening Hours
- Hanging Rock is open 7 days a week (except Christmas Day and major event days, or during event installation).
- On major event days such as New Years Day Horse Races, Hanging Rock Horse Races Australia Day 26 Jan, the Picnic at Hanging Rock Classic Vehicle Show (2nd Sunday in Feb each year), and the Lost Trades Fair, entry is exclusive to event ticket holders and entry fees apply.
- Hours also change seasonally. It is important to note last entry time, and required exit times.
- Mid-April to end August 9:00am – 4:30pm. Last entry 3:00pm All visitors must exit the park before 4:30pm
- September to mid-April 9:00am – 5:00pm. Last entry 3:30pm All visitors must exit the park before 5:00pm
- The Hanging Rock Discovery Centre has similar opening hours, but closes 30 minutes prior to the park closing time.
Entry fee to Hanging Rock Reserve, Macedon Ranges.
Reasonable entry fees apply when visiting Hanging Rock and contribute towards the maintenance, development and care of this unique and natural Australian icon. Access cost varies depending on your mode of entry. Payment is accepted by card only (Visa and Mastercard accepted) and payable before leaving the reserve. There is a ticket machine located outside the Cafe, that accepts cards. You will need to scan this pre-paid ticket at the gate when leaving the reserve.
Car $15.00
Motorbike $5.00
Walk-in /Cyclist $5.00
Midi bus (12-24 seats) $40.00
Coach (25+ seats) $80.00
Separate entry fees apply on specific event days such as race meetings, concerts and Macedon Ranges District Motor Club Car Display Day.
Entry to Hanging Rock on Major Event & Horse Race Days
On 1 January, and 26 January each year, Hanging Rock is closed to non-racegoers for the New Years Day Horse Races, and the Hanging Rock Cup. Separate event entry fees apply. For further raceday information see the What’s On page, or visit: https://country.racing.com Hanging Rock entry is also exclusive to event ticket-holders on other major event days such as the Picnic at Hanging Rock Classic Vehicle Show in February, and the Lost Trades Fair. Hanging Rock may close on occasion for the installation of temporary infrastructure for major events.
Weather Events
The Summit Walking Trail (includes access to ‘the Hanging Rock’) closes when forecast winds exceed 40km/hr and on Extreme Fire Danger Days. The reserve and picnic areas remain open on these days, along with the café, unless advised otherwise. Hanging Rock Reserve does not open to the public at all during declared Catastrophic Fire Danger Days. The CFA website published fire danger ratings for the CENTRAL fire district which includes Hanging Rock.
Hanging Rock Reserve Dog policy
Pet dogs are welcome at the Reserve (excluding major event days) but must be kept on a leash at all times. Dogs are not permitted to ascend the Rock itself on the Summit Walking Trail as it is home to many native animals.
Hanging Rock drone policy
Drones are not permitted to be flown at or over Hanging Rock Reserve without prior written permission. Please email hangingrock@mrsc.vic.gov.au no less than 14 days prior to the date of visit.
Hanging Rock baby facilities
There are two toilets with nappy changing facilities.
Hanging Rock weddings
Plan a memorable wedding ceremony or reception with Hanging Rock as the backdrop.
Opening Hours
Opening Hours - General
Hanging Rock is open 7 days a week (except Christmas Day and major event days).
Mid-April to end August 9:00am – 4:30pm. Last entry 3:00pm All visitors must exit the park before 4:30pm
September to mid-April 9:00am – 5:00pm. Last entry 3:30pm All visitors must exit the park before 5:00pm
The Hanging Rock Discovery Centre closes 30 minutes prior to the park closing time.
Major Event Days
On major event days such as New Year's Day Horse Races, Hanging Rock Horse Races Australia Day 26 Jan, the Picnic at Hanging Rock Classic Vehicle Show (2nd Sunday in Feb each year), and the Lost Trades Fair, entry is exclusive to event ticket holders. Event ticket fees apply during these major events.
Features
- EFTPOS
- Picnic Facilities
- Public Toilets
Downloads
- Hanging Rock Map 6.52M
- Hanging Rock Picnic Shelters 1.21M
