Tracks & Trails
Spectacular regional and national parks surround the region. The natural beauty and heritage is magnificent. 
The Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park harbours fascinating tales of the golden past and retains much of its gold-rush character. From the evocative remains of house sites and puddling machines to the gold mines and gullies that yielded up fortunes. The park is Australia’s first National Heritage Park.
There are many wonderful walking tracks in each of these parks but the most popular is the Great Dividing Trail. This trail which runs between Bendigo and Ballarat via Daylesford, traverses 61 km through the Diggings areas. It covers a wide variety of walking terrains and offers spectacular views and historical relics. There are several entry and exit points at places like Mount Alexander, Chewton and Vaughan.
In addition to the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park, the area supports many forests, historic reserves, flora and fauna reserves and gardens. Areas such as the Maldon Historic Reserve, Mount Alexander Regional Park and the township of Taradale are criss-crossed with walking tracks.
Both the Castlemaine and Maldon Visitor information Centres carry information on these tracks put together by a dedicated band of volunteer organisations.
With over 30 brochures on walking tracks which focus on towns, forests, mining relics and water races – there is something for everyone.