The Redwoods – Walking Among Giants in the Otways

The Redwoods – Walking Among Giants in the Otways

Hidden within the heart of the Great Otway National Park, the Redwoods are a breathtaking grove of Californian Redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) rising more than 60 metres above a lush, fern-filled gully beside the Aire River. Quiet, cool and utterly enchanting, this forest feels worlds away from the nearby coastline and offers one of the most peaceful short walks in the Otways.

It’s a place to slow down, breathe deeply and simply enjoy being surrounded by giants.

A Forest with a Fascinating Past

Unlike the native forests of the Otways, the Redwoods were planted by Victorian foresters in 1936 as part of an experimental forestry project. Over the decades, these non-native trees have thrived in the cool, damp conditions of the Aire Valley.

Now more than 80 years old, the trees already tower impressively overhead — and remarkably, they are expected to grow up to twice their current height over the next 70 years. If they reach their full potential, they could one day become some of the tallest trees in the world.

The Redwoods Walk

Distance: 500 metres - Time: Around 15 minutes - Difficulty: Easy

The walk begins at The Redwoods carpark, located centrally within the Great Otway National Park. From the carpark and nearby picnic area, a short, gentle path leads you directly beneath the towering redwood canopy.

The track is mostly flat and easy to follow, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. As you wander, look up to admire the beautifully textured trunks, some wide enough to feel ancient and timeless, and take in the soft light filtering through the high canopy above.

Nature at Your Feet and Along the River

While the towering trees steal the show, there’s plenty to notice closer to the ground. The forest floor is rich with ferns, fungi and tiny wildflowers, especially after rain. The nearby Aire River adds to the calm atmosphere, with its gentle flow and fern-lined banks providing lovely photo opportunities and peaceful places to pause.

Tips for Visiting The Redwoods

• Visit early or late in the day for quieter conditions

• Look up — the scale of the trees is best appreciated from beneath

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the ground can be damp

• Bring a camera, but take time to simply enjoy the stillness

• Combine your visit with nearby Otways walks and waterfalls

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Facilities and Practical Information

• Parking: Small carpark (limited space for buses and caravans)

• Toilets: Located across the road from the carpark

• Picnic area: Tables and grassy areas nearby

• Dogs: Not permitted (National Park rules apply)

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A Quiet and Memorable Otways Experience

The Redwoods offer a rare chance to walk among towering giants in a setting that feels both majestic and peaceful. Whether you’re stopping briefly or lingering by the river, this short walk leaves a lasting impression and provides a gentle reminder of nature’s incredible scale and patience.

For anyone exploring the Great Otway National Park, The Redwoods is a simple yet unforgettable experience — one that invites you to slow down, look up and breathe in the magic of the forest.

👉 Discover more rainforest walks and highlights in the Otways