The Branding Yard trail includes the iconic Bunjil geoglyph of a wedge-tailed eagle. With great panoramic views from the geoglyph looking back towards Flinders Peak and the Turntable carpark you get quite a different perspective of the You Yangs.
The Branding Yard Trail should be included in any once off visit to You Yangs Regional Park to view the geoglyph up close and personal. Situated just a short drive from both Geelong and Melbourne, the You Yangs are a perfect escape from the urban hustle and a testament to the raw, natural allure of Victoria.
Scenic Views looking Down
As you descend on the Branding Yard Trail from the Turntable carpark, you can gets some rally nice shots looking down and across towards the Geoglyph. Note you can't actually see the Geoglyph until you are at the bottom of this walk.
There are some really great granite boulders that are both impressive and great to get some scenic photo's from. When you arrive at this point you cannot help but take a few photo's.
Whatever your scenario you should be able to get some pretty cool photo's on the way down to the Geoglyph.
Base Camp
It's at the base or bottom of the walk where you will encounter the Geoglyph, a few watering holes (that may or may not be empty depending on the time of year you visit) and generally the main points of interest of the Branding Yard trail.
The shape of the Geoglyph is pretty much impossible to work out at ground level without applying a lot of concentration. Still its what makes doing the Branding Yard Trail worth it and it's a great spot if you have children as they can just do some rock hopping and have some fun down here.
From the geoglyph you also get some great views looking back up towards Flinders Peak.
Geoglyph: The geoglyph or stone sculpture commemorates the indigenous Creator Spirit, Bunjil and the Wathaurong Aboriginal people. The sculpture is in the shape of a wedged-tail eagle and is best viewed from the East Walk if you want to be able to make out the shape of the eagle.
Watering holes: While there are a few watering holes they probably are not the most scenic although beauty is alwys in the eye of the beholder.
Short Duration
The Branding Yard Trail is technically 5km in length but somehow feels shorter than this. It goes without saying that as you have to descend down from Turntable carpark that means that you will have to make an ascent on the return part of your journey. Basically just be warned that if you are a person who doesn't like to do up or downwards trekking that this walk may not be for you.
Return Journey Option
Elevated view of The Geoglyph: Rather than returning to the Turntable car park the way you came down we recommend going back to the carpark via the Saddleback Track and the East Walk. By walking back this way you will be able to enjoy an elevated view of the Geoglyph that you would otherwise miss out on.
Source: www.monumentaustralia.org.au
Map: Below is a map of the Branding Yard Trail. Pay close attention to the map if you want to do the return part of your journey via The Saddleback Track and the East Walk.
Can Get Busy
Given its ease and the allure of the You Yangs, all the trails can get crowded, especially on weekends. If seeking solitude, it's best to visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
Big Rock Carpark: If desperate you can drive down to the Big Rock car park as this carpark is way less popular than the Turntable car park. You'll have to utilise Big Rock as an alternative starting point to your walks but it doesn't really add much distance to any of the walks.
Accessibility
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.
Limited Shade
Like pretty much all the walks in the You Yangs most of the time you are totally exposed to direct sunlight, so it's crucial to prepare by wearing a hat, sunscreen, and carrying sufficient water, especially during warmer months. However due to the relatively short duration (5km) of the walk even on hot days you can complete the walk relatively easily.
Location
The Branding Yard Trail walk is located at Turntable Carpark, Little River VIC 3211, Australia or 51 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.
In A Nutshell
The Branding Yard Trail in the You Yangs is a delightful blend of nature, culture, and geography. While it might not be the most challenging of trails, it offers a deeply satisfying experience, especially for those looking to have a quick immersion in the Australian bushland. With its easy accessibility and the majestic Bunjil Geoglyph as its centerpiece, it's no wonder this trail remains a favorite among many visitors to the You Yangs Regional Park.
The foliage and scenery generally looks that tiny bit different from the walks at the altitude of the Turntable carpark and walk to Big Rock or Flinders Peak. This difference in foliage as well at the viewpoint from the base of the You Yangs and looking up towards Flinders Peak ensures the Branding Yard Trail has it's unique own point of differentiation from the other walks in the You Yangs.
Image: West Melbourne and Beyond.
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.
Other Walks
Serendip Sanctuary
If the You Yangs carparks are full or if you just need something to do to entertain the kids why not head to Serendip Sanctuary. It's FREE afterall and is perfect for a picnic and walk around.
Image: West Melbourne and Beyond.
Bushwalks in West Melbourne and Beyond
If the weather is good why not go on a walk in West Melbourne and Beyond. Plan ahead so you leave early enough!
Waterfalls in West Melbourne and Beyond
Why not visit a waterfall in West Melbourne and Beyond.
This Weekends Markets
All the markets in this weekend in Melbourne and greater Victoria.
Find Saturday Markets
Keep searching for another Saturday market in Victoria. Use our search tool:
Find Sunday Markets
Keep searching for another Sunday market in Victoria. Use our search tool:
