Bundaleer Forest Reserve

The birthplace of Australian forestry, Bundaleer Forest Reserve (nine kilometres south of Jamestown), was established in 1876 as the nation’s first experimental tree plantation to combat the significant loss of native trees by pioneers in their rush to find materials for buildings, railway sleepers, jetty pylons, and supports for mining shafts and tunnels. The need to find a suitable forestry timber species was crucial, and as such, Bundaleer Forest was established.

Today, the forest is a much-loved reserve by locals and visitors, with plenty of walking and cycling tracks to explore.

Conservator’s Trail  1.5 hours duration

(4.6km return) Rating: Moderate

The Conservator’s Trail can be accessed from the picnic grounds or from the arboretum on Neindorf Road, a beautiful plantation of native gums and European species.

The trail passes the newly restored Bundaleer cottage and stables, old nursery beds and the Conservator’s Hut, where early forest conservators would stay. Enjoy truly spectacular views of Bundaleer Valley.

Maple Walk 45 minute stroll

(1.5 km return) Rating: Basic

Enter the Maple Walk through the cast iron gate on the western edge of the picnic grounds.

The path twists and turns its way through a section of forest which features a glorious array of native blue and red gums, European deciduous ornamentals, as well as carobs and a giant cork tree.

Enjoy the sounds of frogs croaking from the creek and birds calling from the tree tops. Keep watch for kangaroos, euros and echidnas.

Take in the community sculptures on your return to the picnic grounds.

Scenic Trail  up to 1.5 hours duration

(4.6km return) Rating: Advanced

The Scenic Trail commences at the south-eastern end of the picnic grounds. Your effort will be rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view of the forest and valley. Marvel at the original dry stone wall along the ridge, built in the 1800s, including eucalypt and radiata plantings of various ages and growth stages. Keep an eye out for local bird and animal life.

Sculpture Walk 20-30 minute stroll

(less than 800m return) Rating: Basic

This is a short walk, but full of family fun, thanks to a series of intriguing sculptures created as part of the bi-ennial Bundaleer Festival.

Play music on the giant percusssion instrument, lose yourself in the arboreal sculpture, see the giant sundial, and check out the huge ‘postcards' of Bundaleer and Jamestown.

 

Information thanks to Visit Jamestown