The Scenic Rim: Link 2 Hike (16.5km)

The Scenic Rim via Link 2 is a challenging 16.5km hike located in Lerderderg State Park, Victoria. With a grade 4 rating, this hike typically takes around 7 hours to complete, offering a rewarding yet strenuous journey through one of the park's most remote and rugged areas.

Lerderderg State Park is a place of stark natural beauty, with the Lerderderg River carving a deep gorge through the landscape. The river has created a 300-metre-deep chasm, winding its way through sandstone and slate, almost splitting the park in two. Along the way, the park showcases a variety of vegetation and wildlife, alongside remnants of the gold mining days that once defined the area. The hike provides a chance to explore these natural and historical features, but it is not an easy walk.

Starting from Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area, the trail follows the river upstream toward Grahams Dam, a serene pool perfect for a refreshing swim. After crossing the river at the dam, the path continues along the eastern riverbank for about 600 metres before reaching the next trail marker. There is a bit of confusion with mapping systems, as some suggest the Link 2 track begins further along the river, but the actual start is at marker LER504. From here, the trail ascends a broad spur to the top of the range, where hikers will find themselves on the Blackwood Ranges Track. This section is relatively gentle, following a well-maintained vehicle track north.

After following Blackwood Ranges Track for a few kilometres, the trail turns right onto the Long Point Track, which offers a more challenging descent. The track drops steeply and sharply into the gorge below, eventually reaching the Lerderderg River near the Weir. When you reach the river, you’ll need to cross at the safest point on the southern side of the dam wall. There, a metal staircase alongside a concrete fish ladder will lead you up to the Lerderderg Tunnel Access Track. This gravel road gradually ascends the eastern side of the range, passing through a large Southern Rural Water gate before a spur track appears on your right. From this point, the Spur Track descends 1.6km down to the river below. The start of this track at marker LER507 is not obvious, so keep a keen eye out on your right after reaching the plateau.

Follow Spur Track as it descends along its length to the Lerderderg River below. Once you reach the river, a left turn takes you downstream, retracing your steps back to Grahams Dam and ultimately returning to the starting point at Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area. Along the way, you’ll be treated to spectacular views and the chance to immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings of the Lerderderg River, making this a challenging but unforgettable hike through one of Victoria’s most scenic landscapes.