Description

A deep, cylindrical volcanic pipe with a lake at the bottom is an awe inspiring feature of this park. Several different forest types, within a small area, are home to a remarkable diversity of possums. Located high on the southern Evelyn Tableland, in the Hugh Nelson Range, this park is centred around a diatreme or volcanic pipe, thought to have been created by a massive gas explosion. A platform at the end of a 400 m walking track through the rainforest provides an uninterrupted view of the remaining crater. The crater is almost 70 m across with sheer granite walls (the surface rock through which the gas exploded). Fifty-eight metres below the rim is a lake over 70 m deep, covered with a green layer of native waterweed. A remarkable variety of vegetation types, including high-altitude rainforest, grow in this small park. It is a hot spot for possums with several different species found in the area and a good place for seeing high-altitude birds. Camping and pets are not permitted at Mount Hypipamee National Park. There are two walking tracks in Mount Hypipamee National Park. These tracks can be walked independently or as a circuit. Crater track (Grade: easy) Distance: 800 m return Time: allow 30 mins walking time Details: A sealed track through the rainforest leads to a viewing platform overlooking the crater. Return along the same track. Dinner Falls circuit (Grade: moderate) Distance: 1.2 km return Time: allow 45 mins walking time Details: An alternative route back to the car park from the crater, this track leads to Dinner Falls, a series of cascades in the headwaters of the Barron River. The track surface is uneven with exposed rocks and roots and can be slippery when wet. Some sections are reasonably steep. This circuit can be walked in either direction. Picnic tables and toilets are provided. Place all rubbish in the bins and refrain from feeding the wildlife.