Hanging Rock has been a favourite backdrop for social gatherings since the early days of European settlement, and was reputedly a hideout for bushrangers like ‘Mad Dog’ Morgan during the heady gold rush days. However, since Peter Weir’s film (1975) of Joan Lindsay’s novel (1967) Picnic at Hanging Rock, the mystery and intrigue surrounding the rock have been a drawcard.
The rock itself rises 105 metres from the plain and is a small steep-sided volcano known as a mamelon that was formed six million years ago over a vent in the earth. The lava in Hanging Rock has a particularly high soda content and over time rainwater has created unusual rock formations such as the Black Hole of Calcutta and the Cathedral.
Visitors can explore the history, mystery and geology of the rock and surrounding area through interpretive displays at the Hanging Rock interpretative centre. Enjoy a stroll around and up the rock or join a guided tour. There are also night tours during the summer months.
The reserve is host to nearly 100 indigenous plants, and comes alive with colour in spring. There are many resident fauna, including 40 species of birds and nine mammal species, including koala, kangaroo, sugar gliders, echidna and wallabies.
Picnic races are hosted annually on Australia Day (January 26), New Years Day and Labour Day (March), a tradition lasting more than 80 years. In late February, enjoy a celebration of local food and wine at the annual Harvest Picnic.
The reserve is open daily from 8am-6pm (except Christmas Day) and an entry fee is charged. For more information phone 03 5429 9631.
How to get there
Hanging Rock is approximately one hour from Melbourne along the Calder Highway, just east of Woodend. Alternatively, you can access the rock from the Hume Highway, turning off at Kilmore and passing through Lancefield.
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