West Melbourne and Beyond

Flinders Peak You Yangs

Flinders Peak is the premier walk in You Yangs Regional Park near Geelong and Werribee. Flinders Peak Walk is a beautifully crafted trail that provides walkers and nature enthusiasts a chance to immerse themselves in the majestic beauty of the Australian bushland. Situated just a short drive from both Geelong and Melbourne, it's a perfect escape from the urban hustle and a testament to the raw, natural allure of Victoria.

Stunning Panoramas

Once you ascend the trail, you're rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views. The Flinders Peak Walk leads you to the highest point in the You Yangs, offering the sight of the vast plains, distant city skylines of Melbourne and Geelong, and serene landscapes that is unparalleled in such close proximity to a major city centre. On a clear day, you can catch glimpses of Port Phillip Bay!

While the views towards Geelong may sound enticing it is the views in the opposite direction that are the true highlight of the Flinders Peak walk.

Well-Maintained

The pathways are well-maintained, with clear signage making it easy for even novice hikers to navigate. A lot of care has been put into the Flinders Peak walk with the many steps well constructed and looked after.

Flinders Peak walk beginning — *Image: West Melbourne and Beyond. Walk beginning.*

The Flinders Peak walk includes two different viewing platforms provided for walkers to maximise the views from the peak. The first viewing platform although from a lower altitude arguably offers more scenic views albeit not towards Geelong and Port Phillip Bay.

The second viewing platform offers 360 degree views with the highlight from this platform out looking towards Port Phillips Bay and Geelong. The platform itself is quite striking and there is plenty of space below the platform to rest up, relax and have a bite to eat. Quite a few people just chill once making it to the summit.

For those into detail there is a nice map on this platform labelling and pointing out all the respective mountains in all 360 degrees.

Accessible

The proximity of the You Yangs Regional Park to the major cities of Melbourne and Geelong makes it a perfect day-trip destination. The You Yangs Regional Park is especially close to Geelong and the outer western suburbs making it a very close destination at approximately 20-30 minutes drive away if you live in these locations.

Diverse Flora and Fauna

The walk exposes you to a variety of indigenous plants and you might even spot some native wildlife, adding to the authenticity of your Australian bushland experience. We've seen kangaroos and koala here as well as a range of birdlife.

Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm — *Image: West Melbourne and Beyond. View to the left from first viewing platform.*

Steep In Sections

Some parts of the walk can be quite steep, making it a bit challenging for those who aren't accustomed to uphill hikes. However, the challenge is part of the charm for many! Although the distance and timing of the walk suggest that this may be an easy trek please note that it is quite steep and if you have poor knees it will be particularly challenging. For those with weaker knees we suggest walking poles if you have them or to add time to the duration of the walk so you can walk it at a leisurely pace.

Popularity

Due to its beauty and accessibility, the trail can get crowded, especially on weekends. If you're looking for solitude, it's advisable to plan your trip on a weekday or during off-peak hours. Alternatively just get up early and arrive well before anyone else. Please note that 9AM is not early for walks at You Yangs Regional Park particularly on any holiday so plan accordingly.

You Yangs near the summit — *Image: West Melbourne and Beyond. Getting close to the summit.*

Limited Shade

There are sections of the trail that are exposed, so it's crucial to prepare by wearing a hat, sunscreen, and carrying sufficient water, especially during warmer months. This is definitely one of the more open walks that you will find in Victoria. There is some dappled tree cover in small amounts of the walk and because of the walks path you will be in shade in some small sections.

However this is definitely quite an open walk so on particularly hot days plan accordingly. This is definitely not an easy walk on hot days except for its relatively short overall distance.

You Yangs looking from the top viewing platform — *Image: West Melbourne and Beyond. From the top viewing platform.*

Granite Outcrops

The You Yangs are known for their distinctive granite peaks. These outcrops provide a unique landscape and are a prominent feature along the trail.

Location

The Flinders Peak walk is located at Turntable Carpark, Turntable Dr, Little River VIC 3211 or 54 minutes drive from Melbourne CBD.

If living in Werribee then You Yangs Regional Park is only 30 minutes drive away.

When

The You Yangs Regional Park is open 7AM - 8PM daily, including weekends and public holidays.

Walk Duration and Length

The Flinders Peak walk is 1.5km in length with a suggested 1 hour return time. It contains 450 granite steps with quite a steep gradient. This walks main challenges are:

if you have poor knees and do not like climbs and/or descents.
Extremely hot weather due to limited tree cover.

From the Turntable car park head towards the information board. From there directly ahead of you is a pathway with the option to go straight ahead (to the East West Walk) or turn left to do the Flinders Peak walk.

In A Nutshell

Flinders Peak Walk is a gem in the You Yangs Regional Park. Its combination of accessibility, mesmerizing views, and the opportunity to connect with nature makes it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. While it does have its challenges, with proper preparation, it promises an enriching experience that will linger in your memories.

If you don't live locally or are an infrequent visitor to this part of Victoria we strongly suggest you combine the Flinders Peak walk with the 'East West Walk' at a minimum. On your way back from the summit you will reach an intersection point that you can turn left to go back to the Turntable car park or turn right to join the East West walk. Turn right if you want to join the East West walk.

Map

Source: Parks Victoria

Other Information

For more information you can download the Vic Parks You Yangs Regional Park Guide from here.

Disclaimer: Use at your own discretion. The information may be out of date.

Tips

Wear sturdy footwear suitable for hiking, as some parts of the track can be uneven.
Carry water, especially during warmer months, and be prepared with sun protection as sections of the walk are exposed.
Early mornings or late afternoons are great times to avoid the heat and potentially have fewer crowds.