Photo: Raimond Spekking / CC BY-SA 4.0
Chisholm Park is a serene, family-friendly reserve on the edge of Hanmer Springs, offering a peaceful escape with mountain views, a small lake, and plenty of space to stretch your legs. It's a local favourite for a casual stroll, picnic, or a round of disc golf – a laid-back alternative to the more adrenaline-focused attractions of the area.
Highlights & What to See
- Lake & Walking Trails – A gentle loop around the lake is perfect for a short walk or bike ride, with benches to soak up the alpine scenery.
- Disc Golf Course – Try a free, self-guided disc golf round (bring your own discs or grab a set from the visitor centre). The course weaves through the park's trees and open spaces.
- Picnic & Play Areas – Shaded picnic tables, a playground for kids, and open grassy fields ideal for a game of frisbee or cricket.
- Birdlife & Nature – Keep an eye out for ducks, swans, and native birds around the lake and wetlands.
- Mountain Panorama – The park offers excellent views of the surrounding Hanmer Range, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Suggested Time to Spend
You can comfortably explore Chisholm Park in 1–2 hours. It's a great spot for a relaxed morning or afternoon, especially if you combine it with a picnic or disc golf. Many visitors stop by as a quick leg-stretcher en route to or from the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa – Just a 5-minute drive away, these famous hot springs are the perfect way to unwind after a walk.
- Conical Hill Walk – A short, steep climb from the village centre offering panoramic views over Hanmer and the mountains.
- Woodland Walk – A gentle, wheelchair-accessible loop through native forest and alongside a stream, starting from the village.
- Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre – For mountain biking, jet boating, and bungy jumping if you're after more thrills.
- Dog Stream Waterfall – A scenic 30-minute walk from the village to a small waterfall and swimming hole.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa — Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0
- Conical Hill Walk — Pseudopanax at English Wikipedia / CC BY 4.0
- Hanmer Springs Adventure Centre — Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0
- Dog Stream Waterfall — Mattgrosso at English Wikipedia / Public domain