Mathias Walking Track — Attraction in Melbourne

A familiar walking spot for me, but to my shock I found recently that many trees have been chopped down there - just to the right of the track's main entrance on Silvan Rd. There is an old seat there near some large rocks (and a small car park area). If one continues down the minor track to the right side of this seat an awful scene greets you on the left in a couple of minutes. So many trees have been culled for a 'fire break', completely destroying the natural beauty of the area established over many years. It may also be a sacred site, or at least very close to one. A very dubious and heavy handed approach to this lovely area by Parks Victoria. It should be thoroughly investigated. The image was taken in winter last year in a spot only a few metres from where trees have been chopped down. This area must be protected from any...

Walk starts right on the Google Maps pinpoint where there is also parking for 4 cars. Another 4 spaces 50m down the road. Road is gravel after the botanical gardens but was suitable for 2WD - i did struggle for traction a little bit on my way back up though.

The walk itself was nice and peaceful. I was greeted almost immediately by Crimson Rosella's and Fairy Wrens, which were plentiful along the whole trail. I also saw Western Rosella's, a pair of King Parrot's & Kookaburra's.

The Mathias track is entirely gravel and wasn't particularly steep, although I turned off to Rock Track, Simone Track and Black Hole Track. The latter 2 being consistently steep - my legs got a good workout!

Despite the warm weather, it was cooler in the forest. I only saw a few people during my 2 hour walk, so it's great if you just want to enjoy...

Nice track and trail. We met 1-2 people here and there but it's very quiet and peaceful. For nature lovers and treks it's the perfect spot. You also have the Choice between the different trails available. Some are more challenging with more elevation. Seems to be a spot for people with dogs. Parking is available at the start. The trail is just next to the botanical garden. Advantage, you have network coverage and gps everywhere. Just in case you got lost. Lots of parrots and we had two following us all the way till we came back. And we had the luck to cross the paths of deers. Was marvellous but they were so quick to go in hiding. The scenery and forest type is different from where I come from. High ferns which makes you think like a prehistoric forest. Bring water. There were no mosquitoes...