Wye to Kennett River Walk

Wye to Kennett River Walk is a 4.6 km one-way route from the signed trailhead at the top of Morley Avenue in Wye River to Kennett River. It winds through blue-gum forest on steep coastal slopes above the Great Ocean Road, with glimpses across the Southern Ocean and a cool rainforest gully. Plan a car shuttle and about 2½ hours; this is an undulating walk with several steep pitches, not a flat coastal stroll. A local 6 km, three-hour itinerary starts at Wye River Hotel and includes an 800 m uphill walk on Morley Street to the signed trail start. This entry uses the signed 4.6 km trail distance; add the hotel approach if you start there.

The route opens with a steep descent to a seat facing the ocean, then follows a more level stretch through blue gums before another steep slope and stone steps. At Birds Track, turn right briefly and then left onto the smaller track; it is an easy junction to miss. The route drops into Monash Gully and climbs out again, with sea views appearing between the trees and views toward Kennett River from the steps.

Tall eucalypts and ferns close around Hitchcock Gully. Large rocks form a creek crossing here, and the gully's cool, damp forest is a welcome change from the exposed slopes. After crossing Kennett Road, look for the old timber-mill site and its history sign. Near the finish, the track opens over Kennett River Valley before descending toward the bridge and pickup area.

Burnt eucalypt trunks from the 2015 fire still stand above the recovering vegetation. The walking notes identify blue gum, blanket-leaf, hazel pomaderris and prickly Moses along the route. Koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas may be seen; listen as well for birds such as eastern spinebills and yellow-faced honeyeaters, but sightings are never guaranteed.

Parking at the signed Morley Avenue start is very limited. If you leave a car near Wye River Hotel, expect about 800 m uphill along Morley Street to reach the trail. The walk does not return to Wye, so arrange a pickup at Kennett River Car Park. Toilets and drinking water were not identified on the route. Pets are not permitted in this national park; assistance dogs have separate entry requirements.