Rockys and Tall Trees (Loops 2, 4)   (986m)

Notes:

Rocky's and Tall Trees are trails that run along the summit ridges from the Observatory up to Echidna Gap Junction.  They are the final climbs before the descending begins on the Western Wedgetail trail.

Rocky's largely traverses the hillside.  While it is the easier of the two trails it certainly has its challenges in the form of in-trail rocks and rough climbs.  There are some A-B lines and even a wooden bridge to try if you like.

Rocky's ends at the far northern end of the Observatory area, at the top of the Stromlo Downhill, Tall Trees runs off to the right just a bit above the Downhill.  Follow the signs as the trail head comes in from a variety of angles. 

The single track descends for a short period before a steep and rocky climb up onto the fire trail.  The fire trail descends again before throwing you into a series of switchbacks that climb back up the hill.

On some sections the rocks are very sharp and hungry looking.  I dare say they have claimed their fair share of tyres, tubes and derailleur's.  It took me a few goes to get this climb nailed but its certainly doable for anyone who doesn't mind getting off the seat but it is the hardest green climb I found.  The technical sections provide some nice A-B Lines for the more experienced to test themselves on.

If you've climbed all the way from the bottom some of these rocks feel a lot bigger than they really are.

Tall Trees ends at Echinda Gap Junction, the highest point on the Stromlo Forest Park Trail Map.  It's a good opportunity to take a break, rehydrate, have a snack, relax the legs, arms and lungs and prepare the gear for a super fun descent!

This trail section starts from the end of Red Rock Lookout / the Observatory Car Park and runs to Echidna Gap the start of Western Wedgetail and Roller Coaster.

Blog articles that mention this trail

• 7/9/2014 - Broken Bone on Breakout

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