Spring Creek Walk, Buchan Caves Reserve

Spring Creek Walk, Buchan Caves Reserve created by ParkWalks

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Summary

This wonderful walk takes you up past Buchan Caves Limestone and Snowy River Volcanics then down along Spring Creek through river bank rainforest.

Description

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From the Visitor Centre follow the road to the start of Spring Creek Walk which is on your right after you cross Spring Creek. The beginning of the track has the first of several mildly steep sections but there is a hand rail in these sections and the track is well maintained.

On your left side you will notice that the rock type changes from grey Buchan Caves Limestone to Snowy River Volcanics. In the 1850's this limestone was extensively mined, along with gold, silver, lead and other minerals found in the area.

There is an intersection where Spring Creek Track merges with Tea Tree Track which continues straight up. To your right is the end of the return path called Kanooka Track.

Shortly after this intersection is a seat tucked away on the left which provides a lovely vantage point looking over the tall eucalyptus trees and lush green vegetation.

Continue along the track as it undulates through both open and shady areas. Sometimes you are overlooking the gully and sometimes shaded by vegetation.

At the peak of the walk is a viewing platform overlooking Spring Creek Falls. If there has been rain the falls will be flowing. It is also the perfect spot to rest, sit still and watch for wildlife. Birdwatchers will be delighted to know there has been over 100 species of birds recorded in the Reserve.

Directly besides the viewing platform are wooden steps leading down and marking the beginning of the Kanooka Track. The first section of this track is a steep decline, first the wooden steps then a narrow path then rocky natural steps, ending level with Spring Creek. The first of several creek crossings happens here with rocky stepping stones to get you across the narrow, shallow creek.
From here take the path to your right, signposted to the campground. Now you are on the rainforest floor, surrounded by mossy rocks, ferns and Kanooka trees. Along this track look out for lyrebirds, wallabies, echidnas, wombats, lizards and more!

There is one more rocky creek crossing and then the track brings you back into the open. At the intersection take Spring Creek Track to your left which will lead you back to the beginning.

Facilities
Buchan Caves Reserve has a shady picnic area with tables, BBQs, picnic shelter/ kitchen, kiosk, toilets, playground, a stream fed swimming pool, Visitor Centre and camping/cabins.

There are seats at the start of the walk, along Tea Tree track and at the lookout over Spring Creek Falls.

Access by car
Buchan Caves Reserve is situated 1hour drive north east of Bairnsdale. From Melbourne take the Princes Highway to Bairnsdale then the Great Alpine Rd to Bruthen. Take the Bruthen-Buchan Rd to Buchan and follow the signs to the Reserve.