Mount Eccles National Park
Mount Eccles National Park, 6120 ha in size, stands at the western edge of the volcanic plains that stretch from Melbourne to Port Fairy, extending northwards to Hamilton and Ararat. Beginning about 20,000 years ago, volcanic eruptions opened the earth's crust and poured out thousands of tonnes of molten lava, forming Mount Eccles and the surrounding landscape. Today, the three main craters hold a 700 metre long lake known as Lake Surprise, which is fed by underground springs. The once red-hot lava has been covered with the lush green of heathland and Manna Gum forest. Geological features to be seen are extensive lava flows, lava caves, scoria cones and crater lakes.
Things to Do
* Walk around the rim then descend into the crater and follow the shoreline of the lake. Take the rough track along the lava canal and see the broken basalt of the old lava flows.
* Explore the inside of a lava cave.
* Swim in the crater of a volcano.
* Listen to the wildlife; try to spot a koala.
* Visit the Byaduk Caves, one of the most extensive and accessible sets of lava caves in Australia. Only one cave is open to the public - contact the ranger to arrange access.
* Climb Mount Napier (a true volcanic cone) in nearby Mount Napier State Park. Here you can stand on the edge of the most recently active volcano in Victoria and enjoy magnificent views.
Precautions
* When walking in the area, strong footwear is recommended.
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