I’d like to let you in on a little secret – and it’s possibly one of the most hidden gems in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. Elizabeth Bridge Reserve Kilsyth is one of the best locations when you are trying to keep the whole family happy with fun and relaxing activities in nature.
Elizabeth Bridge Reserve
Elizabeth Bridge Reserve boasts a huge landscaped park, nature reserve, three lakes and extensive walking and cycling trails. Add in picnic shelters, huge climbing net and all ages playground and we call that a well-spent afternoon!
I like that the Kilsyth park is always properly maintained. Hexagonal rotundas and picnic tables are spread around throughout the park. It has several regularly cleaned public toilets, covered barbeques, and drinking fountains.
Local wildlife groups and community notices can be found on entry to the park as well as some information on local flora and fauna and park history.
There’s even a doggy parking and water bowl set up in the shade to keep your furry pals happy while the littles have a swing.
Speaking of swings, the Elizabeth Bridge Reserve playground has five! So, wait lines are at a minimum, but there’s also so much else to do.
Several slides, climbing frames and tunnels keep littlies busy while Goldilocks and I hit up the giant pyramid rope climber and take turns on the mini flying fox. I would definitely classify this one as an all-ages playground with several zones for learning and play.
There are also lots of natural climbing spaces dotted in and around the walking trails.
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For us, the playground is great but we also like to spend time exploring through the trees.
After you have had your fun on the slides, why not jump on your bike or grab your scooter for a ride around the retarding basin and lakes. All the paths are sealed so it’s great for learners and young ones alike.
During our visit, we spot several black ducks, purple swamp hens and native birds in and around the pools. You can also try to spot the mysterious Chelonia (green sea turtle) who are said to reside in the shallows.
Little Red and I even hear about the mysterious lake monster (from another family at the park) that they say lives in the bridge pond. Its super hard to spot, but if you’re quiet, sometimes you can follow the bubbles catch a glimpse of it….
If you get round far enough round the picturesque wetlands on your bike you can loop around to the old Amphitheatre. It’s a dated space in need of much love, but it’s great for practising turning circles, climbing over and running around.
Head left up the path and you will find the local off leash dog park.
Elizabeth Bridge Reserve is a wonderful place to spend a day in nature with kids. You can ride and walk, explore amongst the trees, burn off energy at the playground and enjoy a leisurely picnic or barbecue without leaving the Kilsyth park.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text el_class=”thon-hot-tips-panel”]Tips for Elizabeth Bridge Reserve:
- Free barbecues;
- Picnic tables and shelter
- Water taps;
- Parking spaces are limited, but additional off-street parking is available
- Public toilets
- Water taps;
- Bring your bike or scooter – sealed walking paths are perfect for beginner cyclists/scooters and prams;
- Dog-friendly (on leash) with an off-leash area;
- plenty of open fields for ball games;and
- Home of the annual Kilsyth Festival (formerly Chelonia Festival).
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