Cathedral Ranges State Park

Featuring a magnificent rugged rocky terrain and rich flora and fauna, the Cathedral Ranges State Park is a special location for outdoor-lovers.

The expansive park spans 3,577 hectares and offers a myriad of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, ranging from tranquil riverside streams to the idyllic mountain peaks.

The Cathedral Range is a spectacular seven-kilometre ridge of sharply upturned sedimentary rock. There are a variety of walking tracks within the park which allow visitors to climb to the peaks and look down on the valleys below. Rock climbing, fishing and camping are other popular activities that can be enjoyed in this park. Cycling is permitted on public roads throughout the park, however, is not permitted on the walking tracks.

For those coming here for a hike, there are many different walking trails you can take: Little River Track
(40 mins – Easy grade), The Friends Nature Trail (1 hr – Easy grade), South Jawbone Track (10 minutes – Medium grade), Neds Peak Track (15 mins – Medium grade), North Jawbone Track (20 mins – Medium grade), Canyon Track (30 mins – Hard grade), Wells Cave Track (30 mins – Very Hard grade). Medium grade tracks have some steep sections but the footing is more sturdy. Hard grade tracks are set within difficult terrain with climbing and poor footing and are not for beginners.

Rock climbing is also a popular activity with beginners and more advanced climbers finding climbs to suit their skill levels. Beginners should head to The Boulders near Sugarloaf Saddle and more advanced climbers will enjoy the challenging climbs on North Jawbone.

Those looking to camp within Cathedral Ranges State Park should check out Cooks Mill, Neds Gully or the Farmyard. Cooks Mill campground has sites available for caravans and bookings are required. Fees and permits are required for most sites. Picnicking by the Little River at Neds Gully is an enjoyable activity; the serenity of the river as the water flows downstream is simply heavenly.

Cathedral Ranges State Park is accessible using Maroondah Highway from Melbourne; just 10 kilometres from Buxton. If you are looking for accommodation in the Yarra Valley, click on the link below to find the best accommodation deals.