Pack a picnic or barbecue lunch and spend an afternoon exploring the natural and historical features of Paddys Ranges State Park near Maryborough, beginning at this excellent picnic area along Settling Pond Track.
Visitor facilities at Settling Pond Track Picnic Area
Multiple picnic tables and wood fire barbecues are set among the trees, along with a large information display, water tank/tap, and a single toilet.
A large gravel parking area sits alongside the picnic ground.
WALKS FROM THE PICNIC GROUND
An information sign at the picnic area displays the following walks from the Settling Pond Track Picnic Area:
All access walking track - suitable for wheelchairs, 500m one way
Be guided back into the park's heritage. With limited mobility, it is best to travel the track from South (picnic area) to North. A car can be taken along Reserve Track to the picnic area along the same track or continue on the self guided interpretive trail.
Self-guided Interpretive Trail - starts on the all-access track, 45 minutes, easy grade, 2km return
Just right for a short walk after lunch, returning to the picnic area. See some of the park's 230 types of wildflowers. Please take nothing but photos.
Picnic Area to Campground
Start on the all access track via Billy Buttons Hills,
1 hour, medium grade, 3km one way. Wind through the bush with the chance to see native animals.
Start from across the carpark,
1.5 hours, medium grade, 3.5 km one way. Views can be had half way through this walk.
CAUTION
Walkers must stay on the walking track. Mine shafts occur throughout the park.
PADDYS RANGES STATE PARK
Paddys Ranges State Park is popular for bushwalking, cycling, bird watching, wildflower spotting, and gold prospecting (in designated areas only, see
Parks Victoria's prospecting map for Paddys Ranges).
Other points of interest in and around Paddys Ranges State Park include: