Ingliston Granites Walk (4.5km)

Ingliston Granites Walk is a 4.5 km, grade 3 return hike in Werribee Gorge State Park, Victoria, and typically takes around two hours to complete. The walk explores a mix of dry open forest, grassy slopes, and rocky outcrops on the western side of the gorge, with sections following the park boundary fence line.

The walk begins from the Ingliston area car park, where a well formed and clearly signposted track descends steadily towards Ironbark Gorge. Recent improvements by Parks Victoria have resulted in a defined walking track and improved wayfinding compared to older access routes in this part of the park. As the track drops into the gorge, rocky bluffs and exposed slopes provide early views into Ironbark Gorge, particularly striking in the softer light of the morning.

After crossing the headwaters of a dry tributary, the route climbs steadily through open forest to a signposted junction. From here, the walk follows an old four wheel drive track heading east along a broad spur. This section is loose and rocky underfoot and descends slightly before reaching the junction with the Granites track and the Falcon’s Lookout track.

The route to Ingliston Granites heads west briefly before meeting a fence line that marks the boundary between Werribee Gorge State Park and adjacent private land. The track then turns north and descends gently along the fence line towards the gorge. This section passes through open grassy slopes and offers broad views across the landscape, including views towards Whyte Island and the surrounding river flats.

As the route continues along the fence line, the walking track becomes faint and intermittent in places. Navigation is generally straightforward due to the open terrain, the fence line, and the clearly defined gorge below, but walkers typically takes care to remain on public land at all times.

The Ingliston Granites area is reached shortly after the route turns west along the fence line. The area contains scattered granite boulders across the slopes, some within the park boundary and others on adjoining private land. This is a suitable place for a short rest, with views across the gorge and frequent sightings of kangaroos grazing on the open slopes. Large red gums are scattered throughout the area, adding to the character of the landscape. Care should be taken around these trees, as large branches may fall without warning.

Walkers seeking larger granite formations may wish to explore the upper slopes closer to the Werribee River, where more substantial boulders can be found. The return walk follows the same route back to the trailhead.

Ingliston Granites Walk is a relatively short and straightforward walk that offers a quieter alternative to some of the more popular tracks in Werribee Gorge State Park. While the granite formations themselves are modest, the walk provides open scenery, expansive views, and an opportunity to explore a lesser visited section of the park.