This circuit requires approximately 2.5km of off trail navigation through dense scrub in a remote region so only undertake this hike if you have suitable navigation experience.
The Pyrete Range Northern Loop explores the northern section of the Pyrete Range section of the Lerderderg State Park. The hike commences at the junction of Walsh Road and the Whites Road Extension Track and follows an undulating management track for 7km as it slowly descends to the depths of the Pyrites Creek. There are plenty of short steep sections as the track traverses a series of gullies.
At the crossing of Pyrites Creek is where the off trail section commences. You will need good navigation skills for the next 2.5km. Follow Pyrites Creek upstream for 500m before ascending a steep, long and overgrown spur to a small peak with an elevation of 500m. The climb out of Pyrites Creek is around 2km long and sees a gain in elevation of 200m.
Not far from the summit of this small peak, you will find an overgrown management track that can be followed back to the trail head. This section is relatively flat compared to other sections of the hike until you connect back up to the Whites Road Extension Track. From the junction you will retrace your steps from early in the hike and will have around 8 short but steep gullies to cross.
This is a great circuit but do be mindful that the 2.5km off trail section does require good navigation skills and the spur is densely overgrown with prickly flora. So much so, I have aptly name this 'acupuncture spur'.
The presence of Cinnamon Fungus poses a serious threat to flora and fauna of the park. This microscopic pathogen attacks plant root systems causing die-back. Patches of dead or dying vegetation can indicate the presence of the fungus and grass trees are particularly susceptible. The disease is spread through the movement of contaminated soil and gravel and there is no known cure. Please make sure you clean your shoes/boots before and after this hike.
Total distance: 15531 m
Max elevation: 543 m
Min elevation: 305 m
Total climbing: 609 m
Total descent: -609 m
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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.
From Melbourne, make your way to Gisborne or Bacchus Marsh. The trail head is along Whites Road which is accessed from the Bacchus Marsh Gisbrone Road (approx 10m from Gisborne and 26km from Bacchus Marsh). Drive along Whites Road, then Walsh Road for 1.2km until you reach the White Road Extension Track. There is s small space for a couple of vehicles.
- 2WD Access
- Gravel Road
- Winding 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.
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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.
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 “Pyrete Range Northern Loop Hike (15.5km)”
Great hike. Fair bit of management track walking but the off-trail section makes up for it.
Trail Hiking Australia we did this last weekend, it was great 😁
Lynda Maddison great to hear you liked it.
Muriel Pepper Steven Parker