The Grahams Dam walk is a short and easy trail that is perfect for families with young children or anyone who wants a leisurely stroll in the beautiful Lerderderg Gorge. The trail is 3.5 kilometers long and takes about 1.5 hours to complete.
The trail starts at Mackenzies Flat picnic area, which has plenty of parking, toilets, BBQs, and picnic tables. From the picnic area, you will follow the Lerderderg River upstream to Grahams Dam. The trail is well-maintained and is mostly flat, with a few gentle uphill sections.
Along the way, you will see a variety of native plants and animals, including eucalyptus trees, ferns, kangaroos, and wallabies. The Lerderderg River is also a popular spot for swimming and fishing.
Once you reach Grahams Dam, you can take a break and enjoy the scenery. The dam is a popular spot for swimming, canoeing, and fishing. You can also take a short detour to the top of the dam for stunning views of the gorge.
After you have enjoyed your time at the dam, you can head back the way you came. The walk back is just as enjoyable as the walk out, and you will have the opportunity to spot more wildlife.
The Grahams Dam walk is a great way to spend some time in the outdoors. It is perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends. The trail is easy to follow and there are plenty of facilities at the start and end of the walk. So if you are looking for a short and easy hike in a beautiful setting, the Grahams Dam walk is a great option.
- The walk is mostly flat and easy, but it does involve fixed artificial stepping stones across the river at two different points, so it is not suitable for prams, wheelchairs or people with limited mobility.
- The river is prone to flooding so avoid after heavy rains.
- No Pets allowed
- Beyond Grahams Dam, there are a number of more challenging walking tracks. Do not attempt these unless you have the necessary navigation experience.
- Facilities at the trail-head include car parking, toilets, BBQ, picnic tables and a shelter with information signs.
Total distance: 3601 m
Max elevation: 187 m
Min elevation: 144 m
Total climbing: 129 m
Total descent: -127 m
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Follow the Western Freeway and turn left off at C704 the Bacchus Marsh -Gisborne exit (this is a clearly sign posted Freeway exit). Drive 1.8kms towards Gisborne then turn left along Lerderderg Gorge Road and follow it 5.4kms to Mackenzies Flat picnic area.
- 2WD Access
- Bitumen Road
- Winding Road
- Large Car Park
- Public Toilets
- Untreated Water
- Picnic Shelter
- Picnic Table
- BBQ Facilities
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â
A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the
AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
Rising in the Great Dividing Range, the Lerderderg River has cut a 300 metre deep gorge through sandstone and slate, almost bisecting the park. The park has a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife and some interesting relics of gold mining. Lerderderg State Park encompasses scenic and geological gorge formations surrounding the Lerderderg River as well as the volcanic cone of Mount Blackwood. The adjacent and separate block called the Pyrete Range forms part of the park. The Lerderderg is known for its remote setting and the 300m deep Lerderderg River gorge is a dominant feature. Private land abuts the park to the south and the Wombat State forest abuts to the north and west.
Lerderderg State Park (incorporating the former Pyrete State Forest) is a 14,250-hectare park located between Bacchus Marsh and Blackwood, an hour's drive from Melbourne, Australia. There are several maintained tracks for walking through the park and camping is allowed.
The park is named for the Lerderderg River which has cut the 300 metre deep Lerderderg Gorge through sandstone and slate, almost bisecting the park. Parks Victoria maintains six designated walks: three short walks of 3.5 km or less; Blackwood-O'Briens Crossing and return (22 km); O'Briens Crossing-Cowan Track loop (14 km); and the overnight walk O'Briens Crossing to Mackenzies Flat (20 km).
In addition, one leg of the Great Dividing Trail, the Lerderderg Track, passes through the park, entering from Blackwood in the park's northwest, and exiting south towards Bacchus Marsh. Bicycles are prohibited from one section of this track, due to a conservation area.
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.
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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.
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
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.
3 Reviews on “Lerderderg Gorge Walk to Grahams Dam (3.5km)”
Lynne Simpson would you come for one of these walks?
Lisa Maree van Bergen these look good
Ashley Mckendrick when your legs better