Trail Fast Facts
Werribee Gorge Offtrail is a 6.9km, grade 4 hike in Werribee Gorge State Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 3 hours to complete.
Warning
Parts of this hiking trail traverse through private land. You will need to seek an alternate route or seek permission of the land owner to access their land.
Hike Overview
This Werribee Gorge Offtrail hike explores Western Bluff, Pyramid Rock and a number of steep and rocky spurs. the Circuit hike commences at the Falcons Lookout Car Park and gradually descends the ridge to the rocky outcrop of Western Bluff. From the bluff the main trail descends steeply via Needles spur into the depths of the Werribee Gorge before climbing to the summit of Pyramid Rock.
There are a number of ways to ascend and descend the summit of Pyramid Rock so select a path suited tto your level of skill. We dropped off the face of the rock structure on the descent.
From this high vantage point you will be rewarded with possibly the best views of Werribee Gorge and the Werribee River below. To the south east you will see the plains of Bacchus Marsh while to the north you can see as far as Centenary hill at the other end of the gorge.
The trail then descends down into the heart of the Werribee Gorge, following the river across to Needles beach before ascending an unnamed spur to picnic point and Western Viewpoint. From here you will descend back into the gorge before traversing a narrow ridge and saddle back to the start of the Granties trail and the Ironbark Gorge Track which will return you to the start.
There will be plenty of rock scrambling, a few river crossings and a few steep ascents to get the heart pumping.
Tips
This is an unofficial off-trail hike without formed trails or signage. You will need to be confident with navigation and steep and rocks ascents and descents.
- Trail can be taken in any direction.
- The river is prone to flooding so avoid after heavy rains.
- Walking poles will be beneficial.
- Be mindful of snakes and hit weather during the summer months
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 399 m
Min elevation: 174 m
Total climbing: 528 m
Total descent: -527 m
Getting there
Follow the Western Highway past Bacchus Marsh to the Pentland Hills exit (5km beyond Bacchus Marsh). At the end of the exit ramp turn right to pass under the freeway. Turn left onto Pentland Hills Road. After passing under the freeway again turn left onto Myers Road and follow it down to the Werribee Gorge State Park.
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
Werribee Gorge State Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape that includes the traditional Country of the Wadawurrung and Wurundjeri Peoples. Werribee Gorge is a wild, rugged natural beauty shaped by 500 million years of geological history. A range of challenging walks amid the steep, river-washed gorge and surrounding rocky ridges offer spectacular views and access to a rock-climbing site within the park. Self-sufficient visitors can picnic and hike to explore this unique park and its distinctive settings.
Suggest an edit
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.
Similar trails nearby
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Let someone know
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.
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.Â
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.
Weather
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.
1 Review on “Werribee Gorge: OffTrail (6.9km)”
We are going to this trail on this weekend, is it trail closed?
Friends and I attempted the trail today. Tracks were closed. Does archive mean that the trail is no longer available? Thanks.