We spent some time searching for the entry. I initially set the GPS to go from Pickfords Rd to Cork Oaks Camp Site, but for some reason, the GPS couldn't find the way. We had to re-set the destination to the other entry (the one at the end of Mountain Creek Rd), and then followed the road within the Reserve to Cork Oaks.
(This is the Sign of "Mt Beckworth Scenic Reserve" at the Entry)
(The sign at the Entry)
There're a few signs in the park showing the way, but not sufficient in my opinion, especially when the road splits, there's no sign to tell you which way to go. Thanks for my GPS, I had a reference (yup, to turn on to the road that looks closer to the destination).
But once we arrived, it made all the effort worth. The Cork Oaks is a nice camp site, with toilet facilities.
After a well-prepared hotdog lunch, we set the hiking to "Mt Bechworth" summit.
As said before, there was no enough signs, we followed the sign of "Mt Bechworth" at the beginning, soon we found us climbing up the mountain following sort of walking trail. It was literally and actually climbing, the path is really steep, and not well formed (so different from You Yangs and 1000 Steps). Mum and Jessica climbed 2/3, then decided to go no further.
It took us 45 mins to reach the summit, this is one of the reasons I believe we didn't follow the track (it says on the sign about 3hr return if stays on the walking track).
However, I must emphasize I made no complain at all. The view is breathtaking, the climbing was fun! It made the hiking more adventurous, the only regret was Mum and Jessica couldn't make to the summit and enjoy the view.
My suggestion to you, if you plan to visit this reserve, please do have a hard copy of the Park Notes, and I'm sure you would thank your proper hiking boots after climbing the mountain, they would protect your ankles and also provide good grip.
(Sign at the Cork Oaks)
(This section of the climbing is easy compared to the summit part)
(View at 1/3 from the summit)
(path at the start, much steeper than what looks in this photo)
(This is the path heading summit)
(map from Park Vic website)
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