O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail
Details
The O'Shannassy Aqueduct Trail is actually 30km in length. This trail is located east of Melbourne; approximately 1 to 1.5 hours from the Melbourne CBD by car. It is in the picturesque Yarra Valley. It begins at the O'Shannassy Weir and goes through to Woori Yallock however this post relates to the 8km return section from Millgrove to Warburton. It is the lesser-known cousin to the Lilydale-Warburton Rail Trail but, I think, so much prettier and quieter! We came across a few other hikers but on the whole, it was peaceful.
The trail follows the old disused aqueduct. Given it used to transport water, there are no hills ( in this section anyway). The trail is of compacted dirt and this section is well cleared of grass or fallen trees. It takes you through stunning fern gullies, majestic pine plantations and across some small creeks. We did not see any wildlife as we did this in the middle of a hot day so would imagine any creatures were well concealed under the tree canopy. However, according to the Parks Victoria description, you might expect to see lyrebirds, wallabies, echidnas, kookaburras, eastern rosellas, superb fairy-wrens and yellow-tailed black cockatoos.
Although it is an easy walk, you won't be disappointed as the surroundings are simply beautiful. I think I spent as much time taking photos as I did walking. You will come across remnants of the old aqueduct from when it was in use.
You can get on and off the trail at several sections of its 30km length however the access at Millgrove was very easy. Take Dee Road which will lead you to the well posted entrance to the trail. Ample car parking from which a path descends slightly to the start of the trail approx 100 metres away. The view from the carpark across the valley is stunning. There are a few picnic tables here. There are no toilet facilities. If you're hot from walking, the Yarra River is only a short distance away by car for a refreshing dip!
I’ve ridden the full length of the O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail several times on my mountain bike mostly starting just above Warburton. The trail from Warburton to the Weir is rideable but only with a buddy and spare tyres etc as its isolated and not as groomed as riding from Warburton towards Woori Yallock. Its important to note that from the Millgrove walking or riding towards Woori Yallock the trail is hilly in parts and therefore more physically demanding. It is also worth noting that the whole length of the Aqueduct trail runs runs in parallel but up to several kms away from the Lilydale – Warburton rail trail.
The section covered in Andrea’s review is highly recommended and suited for walkers/riders of all levels of experience and fitness. Saw a galloping wombat once!