Trail Fast Facts
Little River Gorge Walk is an 800m, grade 3 hike in Snowy River National Park, Victoria. This short walk typically takes 30 minutes to complete.
Hike Overview
The Little River Gorge Walk offers a challenging yet rewarding experience within Snowy River National Park. This 800-metre return walk is graded 3 and typically takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. The walk is relatively short but involves a steep ascent that leads to a remarkable vantage point overlooking the Little River Gorge. Carved over millennia into volcanic rock, this gorge is Victoria’s deepest and a hidden gem of East Gippsland. As the track progresses, prepare to be captivated by dramatic cliff-top vistas of this extraordinary natural formation. The circuit concludes with equally breathtaking panoramas.
Little River Gorge
Little River is a substantial waterway within the Snowy River catchment, situated in the alpine region of Victoria. It is one of two rivers bearing this name that feed into the Snowy River, the other being located in Kosciuszko National Park. Originating below Mount Stradbroke in a remote alpine wilderness within the Alpine National Park, the Little River flows generally southeast before re-entering the Alpine National Park and traversing the Snowy River National Park. Eventually, it merges with the Snowy River west of the Sugarloaf. Over its 27-kilometre course, the river descends 842 metres, carving a dramatic path through the landscape.
Little River is more than just a name; it is a geological force that has sculpted a profound gorge through the surrounding volcanic rock over millennia. At 600 metres deep, this gorge is Victoria's most substantial and remains a hidden gem of East Gippsland. While the river's upper reaches are contained within remote wilderness, the lower sections are more accessible. Parks Victoria has established facilities, including walking tracks and viewing platforms, allowing visitors to appreciate the gorge's grandeur without undertaking strenuous hikes.
The traditional custodians of the land encompassing the Little River are the Bidawal and Nindi-Ngudjam Ngarigu Monero peoples.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 855 m
Min elevation: 795 m
Total climbing: 59 m
Total descent: -59 m
Trailhead
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Track Grade
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.
Getting there
To reach the Little River Gorge trailhead, drive approximately 67 kilometres north of Buchan. Follow Gelantipy Road out of Buchan and continue onto McKillops Road. The turn-off to the trailhead is clearly signposted.
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About the region
Snowy River National Park, located 390 kilometres east of Melbourne in Victoria, is renowned for its dramatic river landscapes, deep gorges, and diverse forests. Covering 98,700 hectares, the park safeguards one of Victoria’s largest forested areas. The park’s northern region is dominated by the Bowen Range and Gelantipy Plateau, while the rugged waterways of Mountain Creek and Rodger River flow southward into the Snowy River.
Established in 1992, the park encompasses two significant wilderness areas: Bowen and Snowy River. These protected regions offer exceptional conservation value and opportunities for solitary exploration. Visitors can engage in a range of self-reliant outdoor activities, although vehicular access to wilderness areas is restricted.
The park provides diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. McKillops Bridge offers one of the few road access points to the Snowy River, where visitors can enjoy swimming in the river's clear pools or embark on thrilling canoeing or rafting adventures through rugged gorges and rapids. For those seeking a different kind of challenge, the 18-kilometre Silver Mine Walking Track and the shorter Snowy River Trail commence at McKillops Bridge.
Little River Gorge, Victoria’s deepest gorge, is a short drive from McKillops Bridge. A walking track leads to a lookout offering breathtaking views of the gorge. While the road to McKillops Bridge is not suitable for larger vehicles, visitors can explore the area by car under favourable conditions. The Yalmy Road winds through magnificent forests to Waratah Flat, providing opportunities for walks and hikes.
Raymond Falls, a stunning 20-metre waterfall, is accessible year-round from Orbost via Moresford Track. The park also features the 43-kilometre Deddick Trail, a four-wheel-drive route traversing the park's heart. Several camping grounds with varying amenities are available throughout the park.
Snowy River National Park is rich in natural and cultural heritage. Evidence of Aboriginal occupation has been found, suggesting that the Kruatungulung people of the Kurnai nation once thrived in the area. European settlement began in the 1840s with cattle grazing and mining activities. Despite early proposals, the park was not officially protected until 1979.
The park boasts exceptional biodiversity, with over 900 native plant species across 20 vegetation communities. Many of these species are rare or threatened. Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter superb lyrebirds along the Raymond Falls track, while azure kingfishers and even platypus can be spotted at the base of the falls.
Want to find the best trails in Snowy River 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.
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Gear to consider
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
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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.
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.