The Pyrete Range Traverse explores the length of the Pyrete Range section of the Lerderderg State Park as you hike north to south (or south to north if you start at the other end). 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.
Continue to follow Whites Road Extension Track for approximately 2.5km to the junction of Sugarloaf Track. Take the this track to the right (south) and follow it to the summit of Mount Sugarload (453m) for views over the surrounding area.
After leaving the summit, continue along Sugarloaf Track for around 1.5km to the junction of Antimony Mine Track. Turn left (south) and follow this along its length to the Park gate at Antimony Mine Road and the end of the hike.
Note, this hike can be started at either end and you will need a car shuttle to take you back to the trail head. This trail follows management tracks the entire length.
Total distance: 18031 m
Max elevation: 543 m
Min elevation: 274 m
Total climbing: 547 m
Total descent: -787 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.
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.
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.
1 Review on “Pyrete Range Traverse Hike (18km)”
Certainly not my most favourite hike in the area. Lots of road walking. Wished I’d had a mountain bike at times.