Shiney Eye Circuit

This moderate heathland circuit crosses open scrub and light eucalyptus woodland. It follows Shiney Eye Track, Dusty Miller Track, Powerline Track and Ridgeview Track, takes a short Pipeline Track link, then returns along Shiney Eye. The mapped loop is 7.9 km (4.9 mi); a local route description gives 9.3 km, so the exact distance is uncertain. The published time is about 3.5 hours; leave room for the sandy surface and steep sections.

Start on Shiney Eye briefly, then turn left onto Dusty Miller. Continue to Powerline and Ridgeview; there is a short steep descent on Ridgeview. The route briefly uses Pipeline, returns by Powerline and Ridgeview, then turns onto Shiney Eye. At Firetail, continue straight on Shiney Eye, cross Pipeline and climb the long slope back to the start. Track conditions can be poor after rain, and water may cover Shiney Eye in winter.

Grass-trees and fringe-myrtle grow through the heathy woodland, with bluebells, daisies and purple-flag along the route. Common Heath is showy near the Shiney Eye junction in winter. Soft Bush-pea flowers beside the short Ridgeview descent in late winter to early spring; Common Fringe-myrtle is especially abundant near Pipeline and Powerline in late spring. Fringed Hare Orchids are associated with autumn, and Large Duck Orchids with spring. Blooming varies from year to year.

Ridgeview opens south and southwest toward Anglesea, with orchids along the track edges. Blue-winged Parrots and Black-faced Woodswallows are often seen along Shiney Eye; listen for White-throated Treecreepers and Spotted Pardalotes.

From the Great Ocean Road and Forest Road roundabout, follow Forest Road for about 2 km to Shiney Eye Track. The route starts at or near that junction; directions allow parking on Forest Road or Shiney Eye Track, but do not identify a marked lot or precise pull-in. Dogs are allowed on leash.