Communities in Melbourne’s north are another step closer to enjoying more ways to experience Plenty Gorge Regional Park, with a contractor appointed to build the first two sections of the new Plenty River Trail.

The Plenty River Trail project will create a shared-use trail for pedestrians and cyclists travelling from Doreen to University Hill, helping to connect communities located in the north and south of the park.

Five new lookouts will be built to offer spectacular views of Wurundjeri Country, and two new bridges will provide additional river crossings for visitors to explore more of this beautiful bushland. The existing Maroondah Aqueduct Pipe Bridge will also be refurbished.

The works are being delivered in stages. Parks Victoria has appointed Ace Landscape Services to build the northern section and the Hawkstowe section of the trail.

The northern section will travel from Bridge Inn Road down to the Hawkstowe visitor precinct. This section will include the construction of the Carome Homestead Lookout and the Lone Pine Lookout.   

The Hawkstowe section will journey through the Hawkstowe Picnic Area. The picnic area will also receive a new accessible toilet, new play spaces and improved pathways and access.

Subject to on-ground and construction industry conditions, the project is expected to commence onsite later this year.

The $19.3 million Plenty River Trail project is being delivered as part of the Victorian Government’s $315 million Suburban Parks Program. The Victorian Government has also invested $850,000 as part of the Urban Parks Active Wellbeing Program, and a further $800,000 as part of the Plenty Gorge Park Master Plan development, to deliver the facility upgrades at Hawkstowe Picnic Area.  

Plenty Gorge Regional Park offers a wide range of natural and cultural experiences only 20km from Melbourne, where visitors can enjoy diverse landscapes and stunning views of the gorge, historical sites and abundant opportunities for bird and wildlife watching.

The final trail designs have been informed by consultation with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Traditional Owners, the local community, councils and other stakeholders.

For more information about the project visit the Plenty Gorge Park upgrades project page.

Quotes attributed to Sofia De Lesantis, Regional Director Melbourne Region, Parks Victoria

“The new Plenty River Trail will offer locals more connections to neighbouring communities and nearby public transport options, like Hawkstowe Station and Mernda Station.”

“We know people love to visit Plenty Gorge Park for its stunning bushland and wildlife. With new trails, lookouts and bridge crossings, we’re thrilled to be providing more ways for visitors to connect with nature.”

Render image of the Blue Lake Lookout.                  

Render image of the new pedestrian bridge at Janefield Gully.