A volcano erupts
Tower Hill is believed to have been formed some 25,000 years ago in a violent volcanic eruption. The force of the blast created the funnel shaped crater, later filled by a lake and the island.
A home for wildlife
The revegetation of Tower Hill has provided new habitats for many animals. You may see koalas, emus, kangaroos, Cape Barren geese, echidnas and possums, as well as waterbirds. The emus are particularly bold, and can often be seen in and around the picnic area... watch that loaf of bread!
Boardwalks, nesting boxes and a birdhide have been constructed to assist bird watchers in catching a glimpse of many birds, including chestnut teal, musk ducks, and spoonbills. Eagles often soar at dusk.
Exploring on foot
There are five self-guided walks, each with a different theme:
PEAK CLIMB: Orientation and geology – 20 minutes return, steep.
LAVA TONGUE BOARDWALK: Wetlands – 30 minutes, easy.
HAT ISLAND HABITAT TRACK: Revegetation – 45 minutes, easy.
WHURRONG WALK: Aboriginal foods – 1 hour, easy.
JOURNEY TO THE LAST VOLCANO: Geology – 1 hour, moderate.
All walks start from the picnic area, except for the Whurrong Walk, which starts near the bird hide. Guided tours can be booked.
Facilities and Information
- Free access: 24 hours
- The Natural History Centre open 9am – 4.30pm
- Rangers available from time to time to help with enquiries
- Barbeques and picnic tables
- Toilets
