Summary

An easy, but beautiful walk through remnant River Red Gum forest in the middle of Watsonia. A place to see diverse flora and fauna.

Description

Gresswell Forest Nature Reserve is located in the suburb of Watsonia, in Melbourne’s north-east. It is a remnant patch of bushland that has since been surrounded by houses, but boasts a collection of walking tracks throughout the reserve.

Walkers can access the reserve from a number of points, including through a gate at the playground on Greenwood Drive that also has parking available. There are a selection of paths through the reserve, either around the boundary (Boundary Track) or through the middle (Centre Track).

The reserve is home to a range of wildlife which can be seen when walking, including eastern grey kangaroos and many bird species. In summer months, the reserve also has a range of active reptile species. Walkers can easily spot these fauna from the track throughout the reserve.

There are many benches located throughout the park, allowing visitors to stop and take in the scenery and wildlife. While the tracks are flat with few hills, these places give walkers plenty of opportunities to rest.

Walkers visiting Gresswell Forest Nature Reserve can expect a variety of plants and animals and easy walking conditions throughout the network of tracks, amongst what is a fantastic piece of remnant bushland in the suburbs.

Read more about Gresswell Nature Conservation Reserves at this Parks Victoria link.

This map was created by Wild Melbourne.

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Points of Interest

1. Entrance Sign

There are a number of informative signs at the entrance to the reserve, nearby the playground. These signs provide information about the walking tracks, and some of the reserve's flora and fauna.

2. Park Bench

There are a number of park benches, like this one, throughout the reserve. These provide a great opportunity to rest and watch for birds, kangaroos and other animals.

3. Creek

The reserve has two creeks running through it, connected to a billabong, that provide opportunities for looking for frogs and reptiles nearby. However, be wary of snakes in these areas.

4. Grassland Track Sign

The tracks are well signposted, like this. Keep an eye out for kangaroos along the Grasslands Track as they tend to graze in this area.

5. River Red Gums

The reserve has a number of large river red gum trees. Keep an eye out for these majestic trees as you complete the walk. Their hollows are excellent places to spot birds and mammals.

6. Wild Melbourne

This walk was completed by Wild Melbourne, a not-for-profit specialised in nature engagement and dedicated to connecting people with nature. Please visit our website to find out more.

Find out more

Features

Playground

Picnic spot

Seating available

Local treasures

Nature trail

Park / Garden