This hike commences at the junction of Greendale-Trentham Road and O'Briens Road and follows O'Briens Road for approximately 5km to O'Briens Crossing. The gravel road is well formed and it's an easy walk as the road gradually descends to the Lerderderg River.
From O'Briens Crossing, walk up the steps past the old toilet block site and follow the steep ridge following Byers Back track. The trail crosses Amber Lane then continues along to Gribble Track. Turns right at the Gribble Track junction and descend the steep track down to the Lerderderg River and the Tunnel.
The Tunnel is a 200 year old river diversion tunnel, dug by hand during the gold mining era. Though it's obviously an interesting historical site and no doubt a feat of human engineering, its entrance is currently blocked by flood debris so it's not the significant feature it once was.
After exploring this area, retrace your steps, ascending Gribble Track to Byers Back Track which runs for approximately 12.5 kms between Blackwood and O'Brien's Crossing in the Lerderderg State Park.
The route largely follows old water races which were cut into the mountainside to transfer water from dams or the river to downstream alluvial gold workings where panning for gold would be undertaken. As water originally flowed in them, the old water courses are basically level and follow the contours of the hillside meaning that the hike is relatively flat at times. Despite being relatively flat, the hike does present technical challenges along the way such as rocks, fallen trees, washouts, stairs, steep drop offs and loose surfaces. The hike is relatively flat and quite easy but it does provide a few challenges particularly when wet.
The vegetation is largely gum trees for most of the way but as the track gets more elevated in the steeper sections of the gorge, the forest varies and provides excellent views out over the Lerderderg River. A number of mines and gold diggings are passed on the way along the trail.
After approximately 13.7km you will arrive at the junction of Websters Track. Turn left and ascend the track to the junction of Kangaroo Track. Turning right at Kangaroo Track with take you through dry open woodland back to O'Briens Road where you will turn right and walk a short distance back to the trail head.
Total distance: 17581 m
Max elevation: 694 m
Min elevation: 447 m
Total climbing: 758 m
Total descent: -758 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 trail head is located approximately 5km north of Greendale at the junction of Greendale-Trentham Road and O'Briens Road.
- 2WD Access
- Bitumen 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.
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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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.
