Begin the walk on the track near the Distillery Creek toilet block where there is a sign to Moggs Creek Picnic Ground. The forest track takes you through a variety of eucalypts with private farmland on your left. The blackened trunks are a reminder of the 1983 bushfires and more recent planned burns.

After about 1 km turn left onto an unsealed Barwon Water 4WD access road to Painkalac Dam. The road passes through a variety of wattles and eucalypts. There are some fine views of the tree clad hills of the Otways. After 3 km you reach the dam. Turn left and walk along the track across the bridge below the spillway and under the dam wall. Climb to the other end of the dam wall for views of Painkalac Dam and surrounding tree-covered slopes. There are picnic tables and a Barwon Water information board about the reservoir.

Follow the steep gravel track (no sign) uphill. After approximately 200 m there is a Barwon Water signed track to the right. Follow this shaded track along the south side of the dam, with lovely views of the water and birdlife. The picnic table at the end of the track is an excellent place for lunch and bird watching. NOTE: There is no track linking the north and south sides of the dam.

Retrace your steps to the Distillery Creek Picnic Ground Car Park.