Summary

This 3km return track makes the most of an unused road reserve woodland to connect Ruffy Recreation Reserve (Maygar Park) with the swampy Ruffy Nature Conservation Reserve.

Description

Walking along the unused road reserve extension of Noye Lane will take you through open woodland of peppermint gums. This track connects by bridge to a circuit of the Ruffy Nature Conservation Reserve. You will pass a tiny population of snow gums, remnants of a colder climate, and skirt a chain of dark deep billabongs into bandicoot and koala territory.

You have entered a swampy riparian depression full of seasonally herbaceous plants, tea-tree and mountain baeckea thickets and mountain swamp gums.

The tattered remains of a few classic cars abandoned by earlier Ruffy inhabitants can be found clustered together amongst the trees near the easterly edge of the reserve. Identify and photograph these rusty relics, but leave the spare parts you might find where they lie for future generations to marvel at.

An old “chain of ponds” watercourse of deep dark pools linked by a trickling creek will sooth any troubled mind. Listen for frogs and watch out for the bunyip!

In the grove of ancient Mountain Swamp Gums (Eucalyptus camphora), notice the knobbly growths on their trunks. During spring the wildflowers can be impressive here. Lilies and orchids are common. Smell the fresh peppermint scented air. Be prepared for Ruffy southerly winds on cooler days, they can be quite bracing.

Notice the many Silver Banksias and other shrubs that have been planted along the track to provide a nectar and pollen source for insects and honeyeaters.

The recommended seasons for this walk are spring and autumn. In Spring you will be surrounded by spectacular fields of wildflowers, an experience not to be missed! Mild, sunny days are beautiful in autumn. Gum boots are recommended in winter, when it can be very wet. Avoid the tiger snake season unless you enjoy the company of these reptiles.

Ruffy offers a range of activities to suit all tastes. You can go for scenic drives or walks in the beautiful bush surroundings. These include a number of flora reserves abounding with wildlife, native flora and rugged granite rock outcrops. Alternatively, relax beside one of the many creeks meandering through the district – all perfect for the artist or photographer.

Amenities
Ruffy Recreation Reserve: toilets, picnic facilities, shelter, horse corrals

Restrictions
Dogs must be on a leash
No potable water
No camping
No firearms
Vehicle/motor bikes on formed roads only. Must be registered.
Take your rubbish with you
No fires in the open

Other walks in the region:
Mt Wombat Lookout walk
Town and Country walk
Wallaby Gully walk
Wallaby Ridge walk
Gooram Falls walk

2831 Views

Points of Interest

1. Ruffy Recreation Reserve (Maygar Park)

Park here to start and finish your walk. Toilets, picnic tables, shelter and horse corrals are available.

2. Snow Gum Walking Track

This track meanders down an unused road reserve through open peppermint gum woodland until it enters Ruffy Nature Conservation Reserve.

3. Foot bridge

A small stream crossing before you enter Ruffy Nature Conservation Reserve.

4. Remnant Snow Gums

A stand of remnant cold climate snow gums have survived the ravages of koala appetite and drought.

5. A swampy riparian zone

This isolated wetland depression is home to healthy native flora and fauna habitat.

Features

Picnic spot

Seating available

Public toilets

Nature trail

Lake, creek, river

Park / Garden