Badger Weir Picnic Ground

Nestled in the lush Yarra Ranges, Badger Weir Picnic Ground is a serene escape into towering mountain ash forests and the soothing sounds of a cascading creek. This idyllic spot is perfect for families and nature lovers seeking a peaceful day out, with easy walking trails that reveal the region's rich birdlife and fern-filled gullies. The picnic area itself is well-maintained, offering tables and BBQs under a canopy of tall trees—ideal for a relaxed lunch surrounded by the fresh scent of eucalyptus.

Highlights & What to See

• Badger Weir Walk: A gentle 1.4 km loop trail that winds through magnificent mountain ash and tree ferns, crossing a charming wooden bridge over the weir. Keep an eye out for lyrebirds and wallabies.
• Picnic and BBQ Facilities: Scattered tables and free electric BBQs set in a grassy clearing, perfect for a family gathering or a quiet afternoon.
• Birdwatching: The forest is alive with the calls of superb lyrebirds, crimson rosellas, and satin bowerbirds—bring binoculars for a closer look.
• Nearby Cement Creek: Just a short drive away, this spot offers another lovely picnic area and a chance to see the famous 'Trees of the Forest' sculpture.
• Rainforest Walks: The area is a gateway to the cool temperate rainforest of the Yarra Ranges, with short trails that immerse you in mossy, ferny wonderlands.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend around 2–3 hours here, combining a leisurely picnic with the short Badger Weir Walk. If you're keen on birdwatching or extending your stroll along the nearby Cement Creek tracks, allow a half-day. It's an easy stop on a drive through the Yarra Valley or Dandenong Ranges, so you can fit it in without rushing your itinerary.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Healesville Sanctuary: Just 15 minutes away, this world-class zoo showcases Australian wildlife in natural bushland settings—a must for families.
• Yarra Valley Wineries: A short drive to renowned vineyards like Domaine Chandon and Yering Station for wine tasting and gourmet food.
• Marysville: A charming mountain town with scenic drives, waterfalls (Steavenson Falls), and the beautiful Lake Mountain alpine resort.
• Dandenong Ranges National Park: Explore the famous Puffing Billy Railway, the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens, and the 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk.
• Warburton: A relaxed riverside village with the Warburton Rail Trail for cycling and the Redwood Forest with its towering Californian redwoods.

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