Big Peninsula Tunnel

The Big Peninsula Tunnel is a small river diversion tunnel located near McMahons Creek in Victoria, Australia.

It was dug in 1864 during the gold rush and is listed in the Victorian Heritage Inventory. To access the tunnel, there is a small car park off the Warburton-Woods Point Road, about 15 km east of Warburton.

The tunnel itself is a square section, approximately 2 meters high and wide, and about 25 meters long. There are tracks leading down from the car park on either side of the tunnel, and a picnic area at the bottom of the stairway. From the car park, visitors can drive down the gravel road and park before the swing gates. A set of stairs with wooden handrails leads down the hill face to the tunnel. At the bottom, the water flows from the tunnel into an open area with rocks, showcasing the path the river used to take. This area is lined with tree ferns and has a picnic table.

During the summer, there are opportunities for swimming and paddling at the tunnels. Inexperienced swimmers can enjoy a small paddling area at the inlet of the Little Peninsula tunnel, while more experienced swimmers can paddle at the inlet and swim at the outlet of the Big Peninsula Tunnel.

The site is accessible year-round, but it is recommended to visit during the summer to fully enjoy swimming. In conclusion, the Big Peninsula Tunnel is a historic site that offers a glimpse into Victoria's gold rush history. It is a popular destination within the Yarra Ranges National Park and is accessible year-round. Whether you're