Parts of this hiking trail traverse through private land. You will need to seek an alternate route or seek permission of the land owner to access their land.
This Western Bluff and Falcons Lookout hike commences at the Western Bluff car park and gradually descends the ridge to the rocky outcrop of Western Bluff. From the bluff the trail descended steeply via Needles spur into the depths of the Werribee Gorge.
Once I reached the Werribee River I crossed via some large rocks then turned left to follow the Werribee River gorge trail to Needles Beach. A great spot for a rest and a fish. I then continued along the trail for about 150m before finding a suitable crossing point back to the opposite side of the river. Listen out for running water as that is where you will often find the best crossing points. I then turned left and walked back to the entrance to Ironbark Gorge.
I slowly ascended the steep ridge immediately to the right of the gorge. This is called Falcons Spur and is a well defined but rocky trail. Alternatively you can follow Ironbark Gorge along its length to rejoin the Falcons lookout trail. The trail was not as well defined though. After about 200m the ridge levelled out to expose some amazing views through the Werribee Gorge.
I continued along this trail to the base of Falcons lookout and a popular rock climbing site. There is a set of timber stairs taking you to the base if the site. From Falcons lookout the trail followed the crest of a wooded ridge before dropping into a narrow and shady valley.
This trail them enters the upper section of Ironbark Gorge before climbing out of the valley and on to IronBark carpark.
From the carpark it was then a short 400m walk back to my starting point.
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.
- Trail can be taken in any direction.
- The river is prone to flooding so avoid after heavy rains.
- Walking poles will be beneficial.
- Be mindful of snakes and hit weather during the summer months
Total distance: 6174 m
Max elevation: 400 m
Min elevation: 176 m
Total climbing: 375 m
Total descent: -375 m
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Follow the Western Highway past Bacchus Marsh to the Pentland Hills exit (5km beyond Bacchus Marsh). At the end of the exit ramp turn right to pass under the freeway. Turn left onto Pentland Hills Road. After passing under the freeway again turn left onto Myers Road and follow it down to the Werribee Gorge State Park.
Werribee Gorge State Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape that includes the traditional Country of the Wadawurrung and Wurundjeri Peoples. Werribee Gorge is a wild, rugged natural beauty shaped by 500 million years of geological history. A range of challenging walks amid the steep, river-washed gorge and surrounding rocky ridges offer spectacular views and access to a rock-climbing site within the park. Self-sufficient visitors can picnic and hike to explore this unique park and its distinctive settings.
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
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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.
2 Reviews on “Western Bluff & Falcons Lookout Hike (6.1km)”
Hard to belief how close to the CBD this walk actually is. We are fortunate.
Park Trek Walking Holidays absolutely. Although it is really popular these days so it’s hard to find yourself alone 🙂
Love having this park so close to home. Such a fun one to explore.