Covering more than 100 hectares, Black Hill is a haven for nature lovers. The reserve offers walking, magnificent views, wildflowers, wildlife, rock climbing and picnicking spots. It may look like an ancient volcano, but Black Hill is in fact an enormous outcrop of granite. Many millions of years ago, a mass of molten magma that had cooled deep within the earth was forced up to the surface. Wind, rain and changes in temperature sculpted the dramatic rock formations as you see them today.

DISTANCE
3.7 kilometres
DURATION
Allow at least an hour, longer if you stop to enjoy the views
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
574m
DOG FRIENDLY
On a leash

The Black Hill lower circuit track is one of many track variations you can walk.  This variation takes you up the ridge track to enjoy the views from the Northern Lookout.  The ridge section has inclines and steps, but you are rewarded with views of Mt Alexander and country toward Bendigo.

Taungurung Aboriginal Owners

The Taungurung Clan, within whose country the Black Hill Reserve lies, were influenced by season and availability of food in their use and enjoyment of the land.  With the arrival of European settlers, the Taungurung's customary way of life came to an end.  Grazing and clearing reduced their traditional food sources, and before long the Taungurung and settlers began to clash violently.  In 1841, the first European dwelling was built on Black Hill.  In the same year the Taungurung, as a recognised group, ceased to exist in the region.

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Northern Lookout

There are some steep inclines and steps along the way to the Northern Lookout, but it's well worth the effort.  This view is of the East and you also gain views of the North and partial views of the West.  Sit for a while in the peace and quiet and you will enjoy the birds, you might even catch sight of a wallaby.  

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Flora and Fauna

Black Hill reserve is a beautiful haven for nature lovers.  About 100 wildflowers have been identified, including rare and threatened species.  The ridge and granite outcrops are dominated by messmates and narrow-leaf peppermint, and the woodland by manna gums and yellow box.   Milkmaids (pictured), are an example of a native perennial lily found in the area. The reserve is also a refuge for native wildlife.  More than 70 species of bird have been recorded, along with 20 species of mammals, invertebrates, six reptiles, four amphibians and one fish species. The most visible are the eastern grey kangaroo and swamp (or black) wallaby, which can be seen in more secluded parts of the reserve.

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Granite

Large granite boulders are found dotted around the landscape in irregular patterns. From the 1920s until 1970, part of the hill was heavily mined for gravel, the consequences are still visible today.

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Kyneton Ridge Estate Winery

As you round the last section of the track, you will see a winery in the distance.  This is Kyneton Ridge Estate Winery, and a lovely spot to head for a break after your trek.  This is cool climate country and with granitic soil and good rainfall, it is ideal for pinot noir. Kyneton Ridge is a terrific example of the boutique wineries you can find here. They produce fine wines featuring pinot noir, chardonnay, sparkling pinot noir chardonnay, sparkling shiraz, cabernet sauvignon and shiraz.  kynetonridge.com.au

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