Explore Tanglefoot Loop
The Tanglefoot Loop, a scenic hiking trail, is located in Victoria Australia, inside the Great Otway National Park. The region is known for its towering trees and lush rainforests. It also has a diverse range of wildlife. This loop is popular with nature lovers, birdwatchers and people looking for a peaceful walk in the Otways.
This is a brief overview of the Tanglefoot loop.
1. Access to Location
- Great Otway National Park The Tanglefoot Loop forms part of Great Otway National Park. This vast protected area spans more than 100,000 hectares with diverse ecosystems ranging from beaches and coastal cliffs to dense rainforests.
- Starting Point The Tanglefoot Loop starts at the Tanglefoot Picnic Area which is located on the Great Ocean Road near Lavers Hill. This is approximately 25 km from Apollo Bay.
2. Trail Features
- Distance The Tanglefoot Loop measures approximately 9 km, which is a moderate circuit. It takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on the pace you choose, to complete.
- Difficulty The trail is rated as moderate difficulty. Although the trail is not particularly difficult, there are some steep sections, uneven terrain, and stairs. This is especially true as you travel through forested areas.
- Type: This is a Circuit Trail, meaning you begin and end at the same place (Tanglefoot Picnic Area), providing a convenient circular route.
3. Scenic Highlights
- Rainforest & Fern Gully The trail winds through lush temperate rainforests with tall Mountain Ash, dense undergrowth and large ferns. It creates a magical, green atmosphere.
- Wildlife: The Otways is home to many different species of animals, including kangaroos and koalas. Hikers on the Tanglefoot Loop can also see a variety of birds, such as kookaburras and lyrebirds.
- Creeks & Waterfalls: You’ll enjoy the sounds of trickling waters as you travel the loop. Some picturesque, small waterfalls also characterize the trail.
- Eucalypt Forests: The upper sections of the trail have beautiful open forests with Eucalyptus, some of which are the tallest trees in the world. This creates an impressive canopy above.
- Tanglefoot Creek The peaceful creek is a beautiful backdrop to the trail. As it meanders along the forest, the creek gives the trail its title. Hikers can also hear the distinct sounds of water flowing on rocks.
4. Flora
- Ferns: This track is full of native ferns such as Tree Ferns or Hard Ferns that thrive in the cool and shaded rainforest.
- Moss: The forest floor is covered with mosses, and the trunks of trees are also green.
- Other Flora The area also contains several eucalyptus trees, such as the Mountain Ash. This is one of the tallest tree species on the planet.
5. Practical Information
- Season: This trail can be hiked all year round, but be aware that the winter months from June to August are often quite muddy and wet.
- Facilities Tanglefoot picnic area is equipped with a parking lot, picnic tables and toilets. It’s a great place to start a hike. Other facilities are nearby such as shelters, and information boards on the ecology of the area.
- Safety: Although the track is well-marked, be careful of slippery surfaces in rainy weather. If you are unfamiliar with an area, it is important to have enough water and wear sturdy shoes.
6. Nearby Attractions
- Great Ocean Road: After you complete the loop, it is easy to visit nearby attractions, including the famous Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. You can also enjoy the beautiful coastline.
- Otway Fly Treetop Adventures offers visitors a unique experience with treetop walks, ziplining and canopy walks.
- Cape Otway Lighthouse is another nearby landmark. It’s located on the tip of Otway Peninsula. The lighthouse offers panoramic views over the Southern Ocean.
7. How to get there
- Tanglefoot Picnic Area can be reached via Great Ocean Road in around 30 minutes. The road to the picnic area can be narrow, winding and well-maintained.
- The drive from Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road will take approximately three hours. You’ll see signs for the Great Otway National Park, and the Tanglefoot Loop.
Conclusion
The Tanglefoot Loop exemplifies why the Otway ranges are so popular with outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The loop is a rewarding and balanced hike that offers stunning rainforests and breathtaking scenery. This is one of those trails that seamlessly blend the peaceful beauty of the Otways and the thrill of discovering ancient forests. It is a must for anyone visiting this region.
The Otway Ranges are an amazing natural wonder. They boast towering eucalypt forests, lush temperate rainforests, and diverse plants and animals. Hikers will enjoy the opportunity to explore a region where ancient trees tower high, creating an atmosphere that is reminiscent of a natural cathedral. Tanglefoot Loop takes you into the heart of this lush, beautiful region. You’ll see large ferns and towering Mountain Ash Trees, some of the tallest flowering trees on Earth, as you walk. There are also peaceful streams and waterfalls. It’s an experience like no other. The combination of soft light filtering down through the canopy and the earthy scents of damp wood and leaves, along with the constant sound of birds, creates a relaxing atmosphere.
The Tanglefoot loop is unique in that it captures all the beauty of the Otways on a circuit suitable for hikers with varying abilities. The medium difficulty makes the trail accessible to all, providing a pleasant walk in varied terrain. The loop has some steep, uneven sections which require concentration. However, the loop is still accessible to casual hikers and families who wish to spend a day in nature without the stress of a long trek. The well-maintained trail is clearly marked and allows you to concentrate on the beauty of nature around you instead of navigating difficult paths.
