Trail Fast Facts

First Falls and Moroka Gorge is a 13.3km, grade 4 hike in Alpine National Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 6 hours to complete.

Length: 13.3km

Duration: 6 hrs

Grade 4 (Hard)

Style: Return

Start: Horseyard Flat

End: Horseyard Flat

Location: Alpine National Park

State: Victoria

Nearby town: Licola

From state capital: 319km

Latitude: -37.48307519

Longitude: 146.9815459

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

Photos

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Hike Overview

The First Falls and Moroka Gorge hike commences at Horseyard Flat. The track crosses a footbridge over the Moroka River before meandering through Snowgum woodland and crossing wetlands on boardwalks. Then it follows the river downstream for 3km to the First Falls. A rock platform provides an ideal viewing point to enjoy the rushing Moroka River plunging into a deep pool. Retrace your steps to Horseyard Flat.

Beyond First Falls there is no track and the route is unmarked. The slopes are steep, with cliffs, logs and regrowth making it very difficult. Descending to the gorge is possible for self-reliant walkers who are experienced in undefined routes. Good levels of fitness are required for steep descents/ascents and ensure you are well equipped for remote walking. Progress to reach the main gorge at Lumican Gully is slow but full of interest. (12km, allow 8-10 hours return).

There is no formal track beyond this point but following the river downstream brings you to three spectacular waterfalls and the narrow gorge proper (dry weather only). This involves some rock hopping and should not be attempted when the river is high.

Map and GPX file

First Falls & Moroka Gorge Hike (13.3km)

Total distance: 6663 m
Max elevation: 1034 m
Min elevation: 785 m
Total climbing: 172 m
Total descent: -390 m

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Getting there

First Falls & Moroka Gorge Hike (13.3km)

Horseyard Flat is on the banks of the Moroka River, 30 km east of Arbuckle Junction down Moroka Rd.

Drive to Licola and at the road junction near the bridge take the Tamboritha Road (don't cross the bridge). You will drive past bush camp sites before the road will turn into a dirt road. 48km from Licola you will reach the Arbuckle Junction, turn east and follow Moroka Rd for another 30km to Horseyard Flat on the banks of the Moroka River.

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Track Grade

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.

About the region

The Alpine National Park is a national park in the Central Highlands and Alpine regions of Victoria, Australia. The 646,000-hectare national park is located northeast of Melbourne. It is the largest National Park in Victoria, and covers much of the higher areas of the Great Dividing Range in Victoria, including Victoria's highest point, Mount Bogong at 1,986 metres and the associated subalpine woodland and grassland of the Bogong High Plains. The park's north-eastern boundary is along the border with New South Wales, where it abuts the Kosciuszko National Park.

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Similar trails nearby

Looking for things to do in Alpine National 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.

Reviews

First Falls & Moroka Gorge Hike (13.3km)

3 Reviews on “First Falls & Moroka Gorge Hike (13.3km)”

Overall rating

Jason Pink

How long is it from horse yard to first falls?

03/01/2021, 09:57

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Sam Stephenson

Derena Carroll

11/11/2019, 16:42

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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.

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.

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Acknowledgement of Country

First falls & moroka gorge hike (13. 3km)

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.

Trail Fast Facts

Hike Overview

Map and GPX file

First Falls & Moroka Gorge Hike (13.3km)