Marengo to Elliot River Circuit

Marengo to Elliot River Circuit is a long return walk from the Marengo car park, following the Great Ocean Walk to Shelly Beach and adding an Elliot River loop inland. The traced route measures about 15 km return and the walk takes around six hours; another route description gives 17 km, so allow time for the longer estimate. This is a long half-day for hikers who want coast and forest, not a quick beach stroll.

From Marengo the track runs over low cliff tops, across the exposed Bald Hill stretch, then descends steeply past the Blowhole. The route mixes sandy foreshore, boardwalk and sheltered forest; a stile and several small hills break up the level stretches. A bench looks along the coast before the descent. Ground after Three Creeks Beach can be boggy after rain. For a photo, include a strip of the trail with the coast so the cliffs have scale.

Just above Shelly Beach, follow the signed track down to the beach and cross at the river mouth. The Great Ocean Walk climbs northwest for about 1.5 km to Eliot Road. Turn right, follow the road past Snowy Ridge Road, cross the river again, and take the track back down to Shelly Beach. Blue gums and taller eucalypt forest replace the open coast, with steps and hills along the way.

After the Shelly loop, retrace the coastal route to Marengo. The stepping stones can flood after heavy rain, and beach alternatives should be taken only at low tide and in calm seas. Check crossing conditions before setting out. Dogs are not permitted in the national park. Start at the Marengo car park beside the caravan park; its fee and capacity were not confirmed.