Mornington Civic Reserve to The Briars Park trail

This trail follows a lovely walking path along a small tributary of the Balcombe Creek from the Mornington Civic Reserve, through two nicely landscaped parks- Hyperno Way Reserve and Craigie Road Reserve – and then on through some fine natural bushland until you reach The Briars Park picnic area and Visitor Centre. From the eastern end of the small car park just south of the skate park, follow the path east for 100m before turning right. Follow this path southward through quiet residential streets. After a while, you will see the grass to your left become a small swale which over time becomes the stream that you will follow all the way to Balcombe Creek. After around one kilometre, Bentons Square shopping centre can be seen across a reserve on your right, and there are paths that lead there if you need a tea break. Cross Bentons Road carefully and continue along the path. The path, creek and the planting alongside the path improves as you travel, with plenty of native trees and birds. After 1200m the path opens into an attractive landscaped park – follow the path left over a small footbridge then right to rejoin the path as it heads south to Craigie Road. At Craigie Road, turn left for 50m and then carefully go down the embankment and cross Craigie Road to a small parking bay next to a South East Water installation. Go through the gate and then follow this rough track for 300m. Cross the end of a driveway and continue on along a constructed gravel track with wooden edges for another 700m, bearing right where the track divides until you reach the Balcombe Creek. Turn left when you meet the main Balcombe Creek trail. Go through the gates and along the boardwalk, through the car park and a small shelter/entrance until you reach the picnic ground and The Briars Park Visitor Centre. There is lots to see and more walks to do within the Briars Park and the adjacent Balcombe Creek Walk if you wish; before you retrace your steps back to the start.