Help to minimise the spread of this disease through the park by remaining on formed tracks at all times. All soil should be removed from footwear prior to entering and leaving the Park using a 70% methylated spirits/water solution and a sturdy brush.
The Djerriwarrh Creek Circuit commences at the entrance gate to the Pyrete Range section of the Lerderderg State Park. Follow the Antimony mine Track north for 700 metres to a trail junction. The trail to the left will take you along the Pyrites Creek Circuit hike. Take the trail to the right and walk a further 300 metres where you will locate a trail on your left. This is the start of the actual circuit.
The trail zigzags its way across the Pyrete range as it gradually descends to the valley along Djerriwarrh Creek. The topography is quite undulating so expect a number of short but steep hills along the way. This trail is commonly used by mountain bike riders so be mindful of this multiple use trail and step aside to allow them to pass.
After approximately 7km, you will reach the wide river flats of Djerriwarrh Creek. There are no river crossings on this circuit but you can access the creek at multiple points along this section. After 1.5km, you will leave the river and slowly wind your way west. The climb out of the river is the longest in this circuit but it's fairly gradual so not enough to get your heart pumping too hard.
At approximately 12km you will come across the junction of a vehicle track where you have the option of continuing north along the narrow trail or following the vehicle track. The narrow trail to the north will rejoin the section of the trail you were on earlier and you can follow this back to the trail head. The GPX file below follows the vehicle track back to Antimony Mine Track where you will turn left and head south back to the start.
There are a number of unmarked side trails off the main circuit so its a good idea to have a map, compass and GPS to ensure you take the right one.
Total distance: 15856 m
Max elevation: 345 m
Min elevation: 231 m
Total climbing: 900 m
Total descent: -898 m
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Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
The start of this hike is located at the end of Antimony Mine Road, approximately 16km north east of Bacchus Marsh. Follow the Diggers Rest-Coimadai Rd (C706) to Antimony Mine Rd in Coimadai then drive along Antimony Mine Road to its end where you will find a small parking area. The last few kilometres of this road are gravel but the road condition is good. Just drive slowly so you don't create too much just for neighbouring properties.
- 2WD Access
- Gravel Road
- Small Car Park
Rising in the Great Dividing Range, the Lerderderg River has cut a 300 metre deep gorge through sandstone and slate, almost bisecting the park. The park has a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife and some interesting relics of gold mining. Lerderderg State Park encompasses scenic and geological gorge formations surrounding the Lerderderg River as well as the volcanic cone of Mount Blackwood. The adjacent and separate block called the Pyrete Range forms part of the park. The Lerderderg is known for its remote setting and the 300m deep Lerderderg River gorge is a dominant feature. Private land abuts the park to the south and the Wombat State forest abuts to the north and west.
Lerderderg State Park (incorporating the former Pyrete State Forest) is a 14,250-hectare park located between Bacchus Marsh and Blackwood, an hour's drive from Melbourne, Australia. There are several maintained tracks for walking through the park and camping is allowed.
The park is named for the Lerderderg River which has cut the 300 metre deep Lerderderg Gorge through sandstone and slate, almost bisecting the park. Parks Victoria maintains six designated walks: three short walks of 3.5 km or less; Blackwood-O'Briens Crossing and return (22 km); O'Briens Crossing-Cowan Track loop (14 km); and the overnight walk O'Briens Crossing to Mackenzies Flat (20 km).
In addition, one leg of the Great Dividing Trail, the Lerderderg Track, passes through the park, entering from Blackwood in the park's northwest, and exiting south towards Bacchus Marsh. Bicycles are prohibited from one section of this track, due to a conservation area.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Lerderderg State Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Long Forest Nature Reserve
Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
