The Buckertillible Cave Circuit walk may be started from at either Middle Creek campground in the south or from Bailes campground towards the northern end of Ferntree Waterfalls Rd. Although this small track is shown on most maps of the Mount Buangor State Park, the name Buckertillible Cave Trackk does not appear on the maps. On maps the route is shown as Cave Hill Track, which can be confusing because it doesnt actually summit Cave Hill.
Buckertillible is the Aborigine name for a large rock overhang in Buangor State Park. It is not a sleeping cave, but a spectacular granite formation about 250m above Middle Ck campground. The track was closed after major fires and floods in the park in 2010-2011 and re-opened following work completed by the Ballarat Bushwalking and Outdoor Club (BBOC) between 2011 and 2014 in collaboration with Parks Victoria.
The route goes northeast and climbs steeply for 1km up to Buckertillible Cave. From there the track goes north (left), under the large rock overhang and then, after 100m, drops steeply into a rocky gully. A large fallen log currently marks the exit north from the gully, and the trail takes a rocky but gentler descent through bush to a rock slab about 400m from the cave. Cross the rock slab using the hand chain support and wooden foot rail.
Raptors are often seen from here. There are spectacular views south and west towards the Western Hwy and west towards Mount Langi Ghiran and the slopes of Mount Buangor. From the rock chain crossing the trail descends in a northerly direction through rocks and then bracken and dense blue gum regrowth. After crossing two bracken-filled streamlines, the track meets a wider track going up and right (east) towards Mount Sugarloaf. Keep left and follow the wider trail down to Ferntree Waterfalls Rd and across the road to Bailes campground. The level track from here back to Middle Creek Campground (2km) is well marked and follows the line of the creek.
The track is very steep and rocky in parts, and requires strong footwear and good balance. It should not be attempted in wet or windy weather or by inexperienced walkers on their own. There are dead (and potentially dangerous) trees along the track. Some parts are slippery, including a rock traverse with a chain support.
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Total distance: 7139 m
Max elevation: 683 m
Min elevation: 425 m
Total climbing: 392 m
Total descent: -392 m
Getting to the trailhead: Mount Buangor State Park.
Turn right off the Western Highway 12km west of Beaufort at the sign to Mount Buangor SP. Follow Ferntree Gully Rd for about 5km past some farms. Just after passing Dairymaid Tk on the right, the road forks to Middle Ck campground on the left or continues straight ahead to Bailes campground and Ferntree Waterfalls.
The upper, steeper section is 4km. The more level 2km section is parallel to the main creek and Ferny Waterfall Road.
Closest towns to this walk: Amphitheatre, Ararat, Avoca, Ballarat, Beaufort, Buangor, Clunes, Elmhurst, Linton, Moonambel, Moyston, Raglan, Skipton, Snake Valley, Wickliffe, Willaura
Mount Buangor State Park is located 60 kilometres west of Ballarat, Victoria in Bayindeen. The 2400 hectare Park takes in varied eucalypt forest, creek flats, a waterfall, steep escarpments and Mount Buangor, the area's highest peak. The park contains a 15 km network of walking trails, many extend into the adjoining Mount Cole State Forest. Dogs are not permitted in this park.
Mount Buangor State Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape in the traditional Country of the Eastern Maar Peoples. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Eastern Maar Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and we recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.
The Mount Buangor State Park allows you to explore a variety of landscapes including eucalypt forest, creek flats, waterfalls and steep escarpments. From the peak of Mount Buangor, the highest in the area, you can experience spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Middle Creek is a good spot for large groups to camp or for camping in caravans. The section of the Bukkertillible and Sugarloaf walks between The Cave and 2 Mile Circuit is a semi remote and steep walk suitable for experienced bushwalkers only. Please be aware that in wet conditions this section of track can become quite slippery.
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Buangor State Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
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8 Reviews on “Buckertillible Cave Circuit Hike (7km)”
Lyndon Frearson
Maryanne Tigges
Lisa Maree van Bergen
Joanna Jo-anna ZMel
Gillian Armstrong we’ll have to give this a go
Helen Panayi
Candace Audrey ?? ?