Ben Nevis Nature Reserve

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Ben Nevis Nature Reserve

Ben Nevis Nature Reserve protects forested ridges, granite outcrops and elevated landscapes surrounding the summit of Ben Nevis. Formerly part of the Mount Cole and Beeripmo State Forests, the reserve conserves scenic forest environments and distinctive geological features.

Granite outcrops are a defining feature of the reserve. At Ben Nevis, elevated viewpoints provide sweeping outlooks across western Victoria, including views towards the Grampians and Pyrenees ranges. The reserve's flora and rocky landscapes create opportunities for bushwalking, birdwatching and nature observation.

For thousands of years this landscape has formed part of the Country of the Eastern Maar People. Today, the reserve protects important natural and cultural values while providing opportunities for visitors to enjoy and appreciate the surrounding environment.

Borella Walk leads to the summit of Ben Nevis through bushland rich in birdlife and native vegetation. Ben Nevis Picnic Area is a scenic place to pause and enjoy the views, with a shelter, picnic tables and toilets available. The reserve brings together natural scenery, outdoor recreation and local history, including a memorial to the 1942 Avro Anson aircraft crash near the summit.

New parks for Victoria's central west and Mirboo North

This park is part of an expanded network of parks across Victoria's central west and Mirboo North following the transfer of 78,838 hectares of public land on 5 October 2026.

The official establishment of these parks and reserves strengthens protection for forests, waterways, wildlife habitat and cultural heritage across the region, while continuing to support opportunities for walking, camping, exploring, connecting with nature, and much more.

Things To Do

Recovery works to replace the Ferntree Falls pedestrian bridge in Mount Buangor now complete

Walk to the summit of Ben Nevis

Follow Borella Walk through forest and woodland between Chinamans Campground and the summit of Ben Nevis, where expansive views stretch across the surrounding landscape.
Windmills dotting the treeline at Ben Nevis Nature Reserve

Picnic with panoramic views

Enjoy a picnic among the granite outcrops and take in panoramic views across western Victoria, including towards the Grampians and Pyrenees. Picnic tables and toilets are available at Ben Nevis Picnic Area.

Wildlife

Visitors may encounter native birds and other wildlife while exploring the reserve's walking tracks and recreation areas.
Wallabies
Echidnas
Wedge-tailed eagles

Tours and adventure experiences in parks

One of the best ways you can get into nature is with a Licensed Tour Operator.

There are more than 400 Licensed Tour Operators across Victoria who are ready and waiting to help you experience and connect with Victoria’s spectacular parks and waterways.

Discover more than 60 different types of nature-based experiences including hiking, mountain biking, boating, four-wheel driving, indigenous culture tours, birdwatching, surfing, diving and so much more. 

Licensed Tour Operators know all the best places to go and will plan and prepare your visit to ensure you are safe and can enjoy your nature-based adventure to the fullest.

Find a Licensed Tour Operator

How to get there

Ben Nevis Nature Reserve

Ben Nevis Nature Reserve is located north of Beaufort, about 2 hours and 30 minutes or 208 km from Melbourne via the M8 touring route.

Need to know

Ben Nevis Nature Reserve

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