Hanging Rock & Summit Walk

Hanging Rock in the Macedon Ranges makes a great family day out for those that love the outdoors. Perfect for walk or even just a picnic in the nature, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors and learn about the history of Hanging Rock itself.

What is Hanging Rock

Hanging Rock (or Mount Diogenes) resulted from a volcanic eruption over 6 million years ago. Located in the Macedon Ranges, Victoria, it was made famous by the novel “Picnic at Hanging Rock”

Hanging Rock, a former volcano is located between two small towns Newham and Hesket and a few kilometres north of Mount Macedon. It is an easy drive 70km and approximately 1 hour Northwest of Melbourne CBD.

Hanging Rock makes a great day out as there is plenty to do in the area. Whether you are looking for a great picnic spot to spend the day, or a moderate walk/hike with the kids, this makes a great spot for it.

There is so much history to learn and the area is home to many native species such as Kolas, Kangaroos and Wallabies which you may see on the odd occasion.

Hanging Rock Reserve Map

Hanging Rock & Summit Walk

The Hanging Rock Summit Walk is a beautiful short child friendly 1.8km round trip circuit. One way is mostly uphill, which makes the return leg easy.

The walk demands average fitness with our 5 and 7-year-olds quick to get to the top to then receive their treat, a cinnamon doughnut, plus a spare for hubby.

The track is on a clear wide path and easy to navigate with signage suggesting you allow 50 minutes. There are steps closer to the top and therefore it’s not a pram friendly walk.

There are some gorgeous views when you do reach the top.

Hanging Rock Reserve

The reserve below Hanging Rock is an excellent area to enjoy a family picnic with a stunning view of Hanging Rock, with tables, several shelters and barbeques located at the reserve as well as plenty of lawn to throw a rug out for a picnic. If you haven’t packed a picnic, food and beverage is available to purchase at the Hanging Rock Café which is located opposite the Discovery centre.

The Discovery Centre showcases the history of Hanging Rock and information on local indigenous culture. It appears there is quite the history at hanging rock, from learning about the formation of the rocks through to stories about the local community. We questioned ability for our girls to walk the 1.8km – but they loved it and we encourage you to take your little ones here.

Carparking is usually easy with a car charge of $10.There are several public toilets available.

Trentham Falls

Trentham Falls is approximately 20-minutes’ drive from Hanging Rock/Daylesford and well worth a stopover on your way or way home from Hanging Rock.

The waterfall plunges more than 32 metres down the cliff, with the viewing area suitable for photographs and to show the kids a waterfall.
Read More Here>>> Trentham Falls

Tips for families visiting Hanging Rock

Short 1.8km circuit recommended for 4+ with average fitness levels.
Not suitable for prams due to steps closer to the summit.
Wear comfortable shoes with grip for a bit of rock climbing at the top to get the best view.
Bring water and food for a picnic.
Café and toilets on site.
Visit the Discovery Centre on return from the Summit to learn about history of the rock.
Car entry is $10 per vehicle., for other vehicle charges please refer to the website.
The reserve allows dogs on leash; however, no dogs are allowed on the Summit Walk due to being home to native animals.
Hanging Rock hosts many events throughout the year such as the New Years Day Hanging Rock picnic races. Refer to the website for details on events.
Other walks such as The Creek, Upper and Lower Base hiking trails were shut at the time of writing. Due to damage during the October/November floods.