First Falls and Moroka Gorge is a 13.3km, grade 4 hike located in Alpine National Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 6 hours to complete.
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.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 1034 m
Min elevation: 785 m
Total climbing: 172 m
Total descent: -390 m
Trail location
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Getting there
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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About the region
The Alpine National Park is a national park located 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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Gear to consider
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
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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 “First Falls & Moroka Gorge Hike (13.3km)”
How long is it from horse yard to first falls?
Derena Carroll