Stoney Creek Nature Reserve

This hike explores the grassy woodlands and rugged terrain of the Stoney Creek Nature Reserve, part of the Murrumbidgee River Corridor. From the trailhead, we follow a management trail southwest into the reserve before turning northwest to cross Stoney Creek. Beyond the creek, we traverse a series of knolls that provide expansive views across the Murrumbidgee River and the surrounding landscape. We then descend a steep spur to explore the open grassy woodlands below before following the true left bank of Stoney Creek to the south west across a series of gullies and spurs followed by a steep climb to the south leading to a pair of scenic vantage points overlooking the Murrumbidgee River. The return journey passes through open grassy woodlands before re-joining a management trail back to the starting point. While the route incorporates sections of defined trail, most of the walk is off-track across undulating terrain with steep slopes and rocky or grassy surfaces that may be slippery or unstable underfoot. Walking pole(s) might be useful and gaiters and/or long pants a must to protect legs from injury. With a linear distance of approx.12.0km and an adjustment for elevation gain of 420m makes this hike equivalent to an on-track walk of 16.2km. The hike is likely to take 5.0hrs to complete at a steady pace and best suited for walkers with a moderate-to-good level of fitness, who are comfortable off track and have completed successfully at least one hike of 12km in the past month. Nature Connection: This walk intentionally balances social walking with short, clearly defined periods of quiet, attentive mindful walking and a brief sit spot to foster a more immersive experience of and a deeper engagement with the landscape. Participants should be comfortable with occasional silence and willing to engage respectfully with this rhythm of walking. Conversation is warmly welcomed at all other times.