hochkins Ridge Flora Reserve

Hochkins Ridge Flora Reserve is a bushland reserve located in Croydon North, Victoria.

Covering 18.6 hectares, it is the largest and most diverse flora reserve in Maroondah. The reserve aims to preserve the indigenous flora and fauna and was named after the Hochkins family, who sold the property to the State Government and Croydon City Council. It became a crown land reserve in 1983-84.

The reserve offers a moderately challenging looped trail of 1.8 km, taking approximately 28 minutes to complete. It is a popular spot for bird watching, hiking, and walking, providing opportunities for family adventures, relaxation, and exercise. Dogs are allowed in the park but must be kept on leashes. The trail starts and ends in the parking area off Exeter Road.

The park is home to various flora species, including long leaf boxes, red stringybark, messmate, peppermint eucalypts, 14 varieties of wattle, 27 species of orchids, and members of the lily family. This makes it an ideal location for flora enthusiasts. The park's location at the southern end of the Great Dividing Range and its 41-meter elevation gain add an extra challenge to the hiking experience.

Hochkins Ridge Flora Reserve is a beautiful park to visit throughout the year, with late winter to early summer being the best time. The park is open from dawn to dusk and offers stunning sunset views. To reach the park, you can drive along the Maroondah Highway and turn onto Holloway Road until you reach the entrance. Alternatively, you can take