Summary

A day forest walk offering grand views, granite outcrops, gullies, dry ridge lines, small waterfalls, remarkable seasonal wildflower displays and rich native flora and fauna. For experienced walkers.

Description

At around 14km, this beautiful return walk including two side loops has a lot to offer for those fit and steady enough on their feet to take it on.

It traverses open dry mountain forest, crosses wet gullies, includes views, plenty of granite and a water sheeted rock face. There are shorter options. However, all require steep climbs and walking rough ground.

Options
1. Shortest 1.5km. Descend Stilos Track to Two Mile Creek. After you cross the creek you will see a sheer granite rock face on your right. Often washed by a sheet of water spilling from a natural granite sluice above, this is your destination. The mapped loop takes you up to it via the opposing hillside slopes, through open woodland. You will encounter the fall, the sluice, granite pools, lovely views, massive granite outcrops and boulders and a natural amphitheatre,

2. Short 2.5km. Ascend to the first crest of Stilos track, continue over it, then follow the minor track straight down to the forest boundary. Enjoy the views, follow the foot trail parallel with the fence line to the left. This way you will skirt the hill top for more views, granite outcrops, a grassed granite platform and continue for a return to the crest either following the same contour or by crossing the summit.

3. Long 14km. The whole kit and caboodle including Umbrella Hill summit and back. After 2 kilometres the track condition improves and the gradient lessens.

Some tips for walking on steep and/or rough tracks and ground.
* Formed dirt tracks do not have to be wet to be slippery. Loose and sandy surfaces also slip. If a track looks too steep or slippery, try walking on stable leaf litter or established grasses nearby.

*Stable looking rocks may not be stable. If you are going to put your weight on a rock for traction, test it first.

*Wet rocks can be treacherously slippery Avoid them!

You are sure to come across various fauna and the flora is gorgeous. Seasonal wildflowers cover the ground at their peak in Spring. Fungi are a feature much of the year.

Amenities:
Car parking
Directional signs
Alternative routes
Flora and fauna habitat

Cautions:
Rock faces
Open water
Steep climbs
Soft shoulders
Rocks may fall
Limbs may fall
Embankments
Uneven ground
No potable water
Slippery surfaces
Subject to flooding
Road surfaces vary
Snakes may be active
Tracks may not be clear
Beware of vehicle traffic
Mobile reception may be unreliable
Carry food, water, First Aid, be SunSmart
Be equipped for self-reliant hiking

Restrictions:
Dogs must be leashed & under control at all times
Take rubbish with you
No rubbish dumping
Do not remove soil or rock
No theft of forest produce
Native flora and fauna are protected
Do not remove timber from standing trees
Closed on days of total fire ban
Drivers/riders must: use formed roads only, be licensed, be registered

1060 Views

Points of Interest

1. Plenty of parking space

There is a large flat parking area next to the corner of Upper Boho Rd and Stilos Track. With Two Mile Creek waterfalls directly below, it could be a good place for a picnic.

2. Two Mile Creek ford

Immediately below the start of Stilos Track you will encounter the Two Mile Creek ford. Pick your own approach, but skirting it to the left where the outflow narrows to a step or two across can work.

3. A steep climb

One way or another, this walk requires climbing - 232m overall to be precise. Some of it on rough, slippery ground. This walk is for people who are fit and steady on their feet.

4. Tree falls across the track

If walking the whole route, tree falls may not be an issue (as long as they don't fall on you). If you drive a part, please note - have a good 4WD, be skilled, be prepared for fallen trees. Best walk!

5. Orchids

Seasonal wildflowers are everywhere from late winter to early summer. Examining them is a delight. Observing for and discovering orchids such as these Pink Fingers is a special treat.

6. Fungi

Most of the year will see fascinating fungi emerge for your inspection, such as this cluster of Yellow Navels.

7. Umbrella Hill Track

Fortunately, there is a sign clearly pointing the way along the ridge line track to Umbrella Hill summit. You have done the hard work getting here, now the gradient gets easier.

8. Native and feral fauna

Amongst the pleasures of a deep forest walk are encounters with wildlife. Eastern Greys, Wallabies, Echidna, Wombats, Antechinus are amongst the native possibilities. Sadly, ferals abound as well.

9. The first view

This is a short side track to a clearing used for camping. The view is across to the Warrenbayne foothills - Strathbogie Tablelands western projection into the plains.

10. Heavily forested at the top

The summit is heavily forested. It is a worthy destination in its own right. Don't be disappointed, the only views are through the trees. There are grand views to come.

11. A foot trail loop full of views

On your return, walk down from the last Stilos Track crest to the fence line bordering the forest. Follow the foot trail that runs roughly parallel with the fence around the hill for great views.

12. A fine set of views

Overlook the bucolic pastoral countryside from this foot trail side loop around the hill adjacent to the main track - up, across and down Two Mile Creek valley. This is a lovely short walk option.

13. Wildflowers

It is so hard to decide which wildflowers to show to do the seasonal displays justice. This example is a pair of Milkmaids.

14. A sheeting waterfall

This large, sheer granite is topped by a rocky sluice that drains the small gully above. The tumbling water emerges the rock face as a broad wet sheet.

15. View and sluice

A nice view from here. Inspecting the water smoothed granite sluice is interesting too. However, you have to climb the slope to experience them. It is a steep clamber through bracken and granite.

Features

Picnic spot

Nature trail

Lake, creek, river