Summary

If you're in need of a gentle, easy stroll followed by a swim then this great walk in Alpine town Harrietville is a perfect summer option.

Description

This is one of the short walk options in the 13.5 hectare Tronoh Lake Reserve, a short stroll south-east of the Harrietville township.

This lake was created by the Tronoh Dredge, one of the world’s largest electric powered mechanical dredges that operated for gold mining in the region from 1942 to 1954. The reserve is now managed by local volunteers and the dredge hole walk links up with other walks (Hance's Mine Track, the East Ovens River Track and the Landmates Levee Wall Track).

We began our walk from Harrietville Post Office and Bakery, and then walked along Feathertop Lane (so called because of its great view of the maintain). Cross the Vic Attridge bridge, and follow the signs to the lake.

Alternatively you can drive the short distance to the Lake Tronoh car park. As you near the lake you'll think you've entered an American summer camp. The approach to the lake is through a small forest of towering pines (Californian Redwoods?) and if it's summer the bank is teeming with family and friendship groups (caravans and canoes!)

There is a public toilet near the Lake car park. Though a short walk, this walk is not suitable for prams as there are steps in parts and the track is dirt (and can become muddy).

7482 Views

Points of Interest

1. Main street shops

Harrietville is petite but we do recommend a stroll through town. There's a decent little bakery, a post office and a pub that's great when the time comes for a counter meal.

2. Feathertop Lane

Take a right into Feathertop Lane, which heads up toward the Tronogh Lake Reserve.

3. Cross the Vic Attard bridge

You'll see this little bridge over the Ovens River East Branch. You'll see signs to other walks in the area. Follow the track to Tronoh Lake in an easterly direction.

4. Car Park and walks info board

You'll pass the Tronoh Lake Reserve Tracks and Trails carpark (startpoint for Bungalow Spur track en route to Mt Feathertop (1922m) but keep following the signs to the Tronoh Dredge Hole.

5. The forest

Much of Lake Tronoh Reserve is Montane Dry Woodland with some Riparian Forest however the approach to the Dredge Hole features towering pines, which lend an American summer camp vibe.

6. Jetty area

It may be tempting to join the fun, but why not take a left here and walk the whole way around the lake first! You may find a better swim spot.

7. Turnoff to other walks

You'll see signage to other tracks (Hence's Track and the East Ovens track) but continue onward around the little lake path.

8. Waterplay

Not advised!

9. Bridge

You're almost back at Joop's Jetty when you see this lovely little bridge. You've finished your loop walk. Might be time for that swim?

10. Toilets

There are two basic toilets located just north of the lake car park on the road back out.

Features

Picnic spot

Seating available

Public toilets

Historical interest

Nature trail

Lake, creek, river