Margaret Lester Forest Walk

Margaret Lester Forest Walk created by Victoria Walks

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Summary

Set amongst the mighty Mountain Ash of Sherbrooke Forest, this sealed track was constructed in 1981. Informative signs tell the story of the forest.

Description

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Paraplegic architect Margaret Lester advised on the installation of this pathway in 1981. It was originally designed as a path for people with disability to enjoy - the first of its type in Victoria. It created a real time forest immersion experience for those with limited mobility. Time has taken its toll and today wear and tear mean the path might not be accessible to everyone. However, it remains a lovely short walk and the views into the forest are beautiful. The entrance to the track is clearly signed.

The 500 meter long track is 1.2 meters wide and sealed from its start point to where it arcs back to the car park at the other end. The slope is generally mild. There is a gravel walking track parallel to Coles Ridge Track for returning to the start, otherwise you can return the way you came.

Interesting signage along the path is placed in bays along with bench seating. The signs explain the natural, cultural and conservation history of the area.

BBQs and picnic tables are sited at the beginning of the walk. It is a great place to watch the birds. There is a cafe and gift shop at the entry to Grants Day Picnic Area.

There are two public toilets, one beside the cafe, another by the tourist bus stop at the bottom of the hill.

The following photos and descriptions provide more information regarding the walk. Conditions may change. If you notice any variations, please let us know.

Pets are not permitted in the National Park. Please do not feed the birds.

Other walks to consider:
Croydon Park walk
Ringwood Lake walk
Town Park & Tarralla Wetlands walk

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Points of Interest

1. Picnic tables and BBQs

Picnic tables and BBQs are available at the start of the walk.

2. Walk entrance

The beginning of the walk is clearly signed.

3. Overtaking bays

The track makes its way through the forest. It is 1.2m wide, so overtaking bays have been built in to make two way traffic easier.

4. The views

Looking into the forest from the various observation bays is quite beautiful.

5. The trees

The towering eucalypts of the forest are nothing short of amazing. Mountain Ash are the tallest flowering plant in the world.

6. Rest and information bays

There are also bays with bench seating and interesting interpretive signs that tell the history of Sherbrooke Forest and about its cultural and environmental values.

7. The return walk

Return either the way you came or on the gravel track beside Coles Ridge Track.

8. Large shelter

There is a large shelter with picnic tables below the walk by the cafe.

9. Cafe

If you are looking to purchase refreshments Grants on Sherbrooke cafe is situated at the Grants Day Picnic Area entrance near to the walk.

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10. Public transport

Tourist buses regularly visit Grants Picnic Ground. Alternatively, catch PTV Bus 694 from Belgrave railway station to the nearby Monbulk Rd / Sherbrooke Rd bus stop.