Set out along the trail from Jounama Creek campground, and you’ll soon meet the trackhead for the short but heart-pumping Old Mountain Road walking track. This high-energy walk heads uphill above the creek valley, but is well worth the effort for the breathtaking views of Bogong Peaks, Jounama Pondage and Blowering Reservoir.
The track follows Talbingo Mountain’s first road, built in 1860 during the Kiandra gold rush. Today, the only traffic you’re likely to see is a colourful variety of birdlife, including yellow-tailed black cockatoos. In summer, wildflowers such as purple kunzea and white-flowered tea tree bloom on the lower slopes.
Return the same way (add 1hr), enjoying the downhill track and detour to pretty Jounama Creek, near the campground. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic and to paddle your feet after the walk, or to simply sit quietly and watch for wallabies and eastern grey kangaroos.