Red Gum - Homestead - Plenty River Walk

Red Gum - Homestead - Plenty River Walk created by Victoria Walks

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Summary

This contrasting loop walk samples some very different landscapes in Plenty Gorge Parklands. Walk from open grassland down to an historic homestead and then on, deeper into the river gorge itself.

Description

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There are so many different experiences to be had in the Plenty River Gorge Park. Walking is absolutely the best way to experience them. This walk starts in open grassland, drops one level to the historic Le Page homestead / gallery and then another level into the Plenty River Gorge.

At around 3.5km, this is a relatively short 90 minute loop, but you might find you want to linger longer. The walk from Red Gum picnic area has good views to the homestead farm. The house is open weekends 1.00pm - 4.00pm. The grounds are open every day and well equipped for BBQs or picnics. Exploring the house, outbuildings, gardens, orchard and small lakes provides an interesting view of the past.

The route into, along and out of the river gorge is a slice of riparian majesty. The return route takes you through the Nokia Bush Camp (bunkhouse accomodation).

The paths begin as smooth, wide compacted gravel. They narrow progressively to dirt tracks along the river as you drop into the escarpment. There are some steep sections, wire meshed boardwalks and steps.

Directional signs are not always helpful for this route. Mobile phone coverage may be patchy. Carry a paper map.

The contrast between the exotic plants of the homestead garden and orchard with the river's wild native forest couldn't be more stark. It is a great reminder of how this country has been changed in the past, continues to change and how important conservation is to us all.

Keep an eye out for woodland birds such as parrots, honeyeaters and wrens. During the day, there are plenty of kangaroos and the occasional echidna to watch. Be wary of wombat burrows along the river. You might get lucky and spot a platypus.

There are picnic tables, a playground and an accessible public toilet at Red Gum picnic area. Accessible amenities such as BBQs, shelters, drinking water fountains a toilet and more parking are available at the homestead.

A good tip: adding the Morang Wetland Park Walk as another outing after your return to Red Gum picnic area would make for an even more diverse and outstanding day on foot.

Pets are not permitted.

Park opening hours
Winter: 8:30AM to 5:00PM
Summer: 8:30AM to 7:00PM

Public transport
There is a stop at the Gordons / Plenty Rd intersection for bus 382. It is 100 meters from Red Gum car park. South Morang railway station is along Planty Rd on the Mernda line.

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Points of Interest

1. Tank Track crossing

After leaving Red Gum picnic area use the Tank Track pedestrian crossing to begin on the path down to Le Page homestead.

2. A compacted gravel path

The route begins as a firm, smooth and wide compacted gravel path. Be aware it narrows dramatically by the time you get to the river.

3. A steep section

The first stage of your descent provides views across the historic farm. This section is quite steep. You will come back this way.

4. Homestead site amenities

Accessible shelters, BBQs, picnic tables, seating, drinking water fountains and toilets are installed at the homestead site. There is a large car park. You could park here for a shorter walk.

5. A rehabilitated orchard

The farm orchard has been rehabilitated to deliver another insight into the past.

6. Accessible viewing platforms

The 2 farm lakes each have new accessible viewing platforms installed over the water.

7. Seating

Seating along the walk is occasional. It is great to see more being installed on the pathways with back and arm rests included.

8. The walk loops back on itself

The 2 loops of the walk meet here. When heading to the river keep going straight ahead and down into the gorge. When returning to the homestead cross the small footbridge, go around the lake.