Victoria's iconic 1000 Steps will be upgraded to include an accessible trail, new sculptures and upgraded amenities, thanks to a $2.1 million government package.
The 1000 steps upgrades form part of the third stage of the Bald Hill Activation Plan, providing better access to the Bald Hill Summit. The project will deliver an accessible trail around the Bald Hill Summit, connecting it to the 1000 Steps and a lookout, which boasts panoramic views over Moorabool and Melbourne.
Visitors will be able to view six new sculptures on their walk up to the summit, as well as enjoy upgraded amenities including an accessible toilet, shelter, tables and seating to provide a more accessible and amenable visitor experience. The 1000 Steps is widely thought to be Australia’s most popular bushwalk, about an hour’s drive out of Melbourne.
What you need to know
- Victoria’s iconic 1000 Steps will be upgraded as part of a $2.1 million package
- The upgrades include an accessible walking trail to the summit
- This is the third phase of upgrades to the 1000 Steps, many of which are open to the public
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The government believes these changes will attract more than 146,000 additional visitors to Bacchus Marsh once it’s up and running. The project is due to be complete by mid-2024. The new summit experience will complement the previous two stages of works at the 1000+ Steps and Telford Park all abilities trail. Phase one of the redevelopment, which included the 1000+ Steps, rest stops, a lookout, and road crossings, is now open to the public.
“We’re investing in upgrading tourism infrastructure right across the state and this project will encourage more people to visit the Moorabool region,” tourism minister Martin Pakula said. “The Bacchus Marsh 1000 Steps is a fantastic destination and these upgrades will capitalise on the natural beauty of the Moorabool region,” regional development minister Mary-Anne Thomas added.
The best day hikes near Melbourne that aren’t the 1000 steps
Find out more about the 1000 Steps walk here.
