The Aqueduct, which includes some underground pipe and syphon sections, was constructed between 1911 and 1915, and decommissioned in 1997. The maintenance track, known as Road 18, has been opened up progressively for walkers, horse-riders and cyclists, following transfer of land ownership from Melbourne Water to Parks Victoria.
The Trail passes through magnificent Mountain Ash forest, past fern gullies, with excellent views across the Yarra Valley towards Mt Little Joe and the mountains near Big Pats Creek. It winds its way around the base of Mt Donna Buang, Mt Victoria and Ben Cairn, passing many aqueduct engineering works, bridges, syphons, huts, distance marker posts and old maintenance sheds.
New access gates for management vehicles and walkers have been built at various locations along the route.
Sadly, there has been massive encroachment of vegetation, fallen trees, branches, and weeds in sections of the Aqueduct.
I have completed the 25 km of the Trail - 50 km return, in several trips!
On Saturday May 21, 2011, I explored the final section of the Trail to be opened, starting at the access point at the newly constructed crossing at Parrot Rd, Woori Yallock.
This was about 4 km return, up and down steep terrain.
There were some nice views towards the Dandenong Ranges.
See all of the Photos of this trip!
No comments:
Post a Comment