This hike is not to be confused with the Little River Gorge, which is Victoria's deepest gorge, just north of Buchan in Victoria.
The Brisbane Ranges offer a diverse range of hiking experiences across varied landscapes. The Little River Gorge Walk provides a relatively short yet dramatic journey through a less explored section of the park, branching off from the Burchell Trail. This grade 4 hike is approximately 7.5 kilometres in length and typically takes around 3.5 hours to complete within Brisbane Ranges National Park, Victoria.
Beginning at the Little River Picnic Area, a walk-in camping ground only, follow the Burchell Trail southward as it meanders along Reilly Creek. After approximately one kilometre, involving several relatively easy creek crossings, the trail briefly ascends a steep spur. At this point, the Burchell Trail continues climbing away from the creek towards the south, but the Little River Gorge Walk diverges. Instead of following the spur, descend back to the creek and follow its course initially northwards, then westward as it winds into the depths of the gorge.
The next three kilometres offer a rewarding experience with frequent creek crossings, rock hopping, and captivating scenery. This off-trail section provides a strong sense of seclusion.
Approximately four kilometres from the starting point, the dramatic gorge walls gradually give way to lower foothills and distant farmland. Identify a spur to the left, marked by a dry stone wall extending from its base to the plateau above. Ascending this spur, following the stone wall, offers a relatively manageable, albeit steep, climb.
Upon reaching the plateau, locate the Echidna Track, a rough management trail. A gate and private property are situated to the right. Turn east and follow the Echidna Track for approximately 2.2 kilometres, enjoying an easier walking pace, back to McLeans Highway. Despite its name, the road is unsealed and rough.
Turn right at the road junction and walk southwest for about one kilometre to return to the Little River Picnic Area and your vehicles.
Little River Picnic Area and Walk-in Camping Ground
This picturesque campground is at the junction of the Little River and Rileys Creek and makes a great spot for overnight walk-in camping. Note, no vehicle camping is permitted.
- Access: Access is by walkers only along the Burchell Trail which traverses the length of the park. The camping area is situated 10kms from Boar Gully and 29kms from Steiglitz on the eastern side of the Little River.
- Bookings: Advanced bookings and payment are required.
- Campsites: There are 2 unpowered campsites available. This campground is suitable for tents only.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets, wood barbecue, picnic table and seat are provided.
- Campfire: Firewood collection is not permitted. Campers should bring a fuel stove for cooking.
- Water: Tank water is available but it is not suitable for drinking - supply your own drinking water.
Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
Total distance: 7504 m
Max elevation: 365 m
Min elevation: 203 m
Total climbing: 410 m
Total descent: -409 m
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The park is 81km west of Melbourne via the Princes Highway. Turn onto the Ballan Road from Geelong or take the Western Freeway to Bacchus Marsh and follow the Geelong Road. It is best to set your GPS to the coordinates provided or simply search for the Little River Picnic Area in Google Maps.
Please be mindful that this area is a walk-in campsite only so do not disturb overnight hikers who may be enjoying the peace and tranquility.
Brisbane Ranges National Park, located west of Geelong and southwest of Bacchus Marsh, approximately an hour's drive from Melbourne, is Victoria's richest wildflower habitat and boasts the highest density of koalas in the state. This 7,700-hectare park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of walks, bushwalks, and hikes suitable for all fitness levels, from leisurely strolls to multi-day treks.
The park's unique geology, characterised by low mountain ranges intersected by rocky gullies, has preserved a remarkable array of plant and animal life. With over 619 native plant species, including the rare Brisbane Ranges Grevillea, the park is a botanist's paradise. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of birdlife, including over 170 recorded species.
Beyond hiking, the park offers opportunities for picnicking, scenic drives, and camping. It is also significant as part of the Aboriginal cultural landscape, being the traditional lands of the Wadawurrung People.
Want to find the best trails in Brisbane Ranges National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running and more.
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.
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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.
3 Reviews on “Little River Gorge Walk (7.5km)”
We did this trail on Sunday and it was lovely and lots of fun! We especially enjoyed the rock hopping down and across the creek. I highly recommend using the gpx file to follow as some points weren’t that clear due to overgrowth / lack of markers (once you are off the Burchell Trail) and also taking screenshots of the above trail notes helped (no reception in the gorge). Would definitely do again 🙂 Oh and we even saw an echidna on Echidna Track.
We took this trail in reverse, and were very thankful for it when we got to the steep downhill/stone fence section! It’s a pretty walk, but it’s very hard on this joints, as much of it is off trail, and zig zagging along a rocky riverbed – I definitely don’t recommend for people with dodgy ankles/knees/back. There’s some river sections that require a bit of rerouting and climbing to get around (though I imagine this is a little dependent on recent rainfall), but all in all, a nice walk.