Trail Fast Facts
Big Pats Creek to Starlings Gap is a 9.6km, grade 3 hike in Yarra State Forest, Victoria. This hike typically takes 3.5 hours to complete.
Hike Overview
The Big Pats Creek to Starlings Gap hike is the beginning section of the Walk into History. It starts at Big Pats Creek and continues on a gradual uphill to Starlings Gap. The area is very lush and a delight to hike through.
Initially the track follows very closely Big Pats Creek, and there are some really lovely views of it along the way. The track will then climb gradually. Take time to admire the surroundings. At the time of writing there were a few fallen trees along the way. Nothing too difficult, but worth considering. After roughly 6km keep an eye out for a small opening to the right of the track. This leads to the top of a huge sawdust pile. It is more interesting than what it sounds! There are some great views from the top of it.
Continue back up the trail and at shortly after 9km mark there is another huge sawdust pile that is worth having a wander over. Again, it might not sound that interesting but it is worth a look. You'll then arrive back at the road at Starlings Gap.
Track Grade
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.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 789 m
Min elevation: 217 m
Total climbing: 761 m
Total descent: -196 m
Trailhead
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Getting there
Note: You will need to arrange a car shuffle to get back from Starling Gap to Big Pats Creek after you have done the hike.
There are various ways to reach Starling Gap. One way is to go to Powelltown, then after approx 10km you will see the turnoff up Big Creek Road. Or you can travel via Warburton. Approx 10km after Warburton take the right to Riverside Dr and then left onto Big Pats Creek Rd. After a few km you'll reach the small settlement of Big Pats Creek. Shortly you will come to a bridge where there is a pullover to park where you can return to after leaving a car at Starlings Gap. Take the right immediately after the bridge, you will see the track start to your right just after the corner. After 1km you will pass the Big Pats Rec area carpark, you could start the track here as well, but you'll miss the first km. Continue up to Starlings Gap to park one car there and return back to Big Pats Creek.
Once back at Big Creek Road, follow the signs (some may be missing) to reach Starling Gap. This is roughly 11km from the junction.
Suggest an edit
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.
Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Yarra State Forest 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.
Gear to consider
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
Explore Safe
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.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
3 Reviews on “Big Pats Creek to Starlings Gap Hike (9.6km)”
Asher Vander Reyden – full day 20km?
The comment about snakes being harmless is not a good one for those who don’t know Australian snakes, some of which have the potential to be deadly. Obviously mitigate your risk and avoid them.
Is this hike not wheelchair friendly?
Looks like a great walk. Just wanting to check that this is ok to do as a return walk…? Any reasons not to?
I’m trying to pick a good walk to do next week. Staying around the area overnight so looking for two seperate day hikes to do.
Cheers
Mad invite…
Michael Dickson #legless
Michael what about using a stretcher?
My friend and I started this hike. About 1km in, I spotted a small snake (about 40cm). We thought it was a one-off. Then within 10m, there was a large brown snake on the trail. We decided to turn back as we assumed there would be more snakes…
There were also loads of large spider webs as well.
Just thought you should know…
Of course it would be. Simply turn around and walk back.
The joys of hiking in Australia. This time of year I would expect to find snakes on any hike. Australian sakes are deadly and should be avoided at all costs. The best policy is to leave them alone and wait for them to move on
Vaughan Bowman