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.
This Western Bluff and Falcons Lookout hike commences at the Western Bluff car park and gradually descends the ridge to the rocky outcrop of Western Bluff. From the bluff the trail descended steeply via Needles spur into the depths of the Werribee Gorge.
Once I reached the Werribee River I crossed via some large rocks then turned left to follow the Werribee River gorge trail to Needles Beach. A great spot for a rest and a fish. I then continued along the trail for about 150m before finding a suitable crossing point back to the opposite side of the river. Listen out for running water as that is where you will often find the best crossing points. I then turned left and walked back to the entrance to Ironbark Gorge.
I slowly ascended the steep ridge immediately to the right of the gorge. This is called Falcons Spur and is a well defined but rocky trail. Alternatively you can follow Ironbark Gorge along its length to rejoin the Falcons lookout trail. The trail was not as well defined though. After about 200m the ridge levelled out to expose some amazing views through the Werribee Gorge.
I continued along this trail to the base of Falcons lookout and a popular rock climbing site. There is a set of timber stairs taking you to the base if the site. From Falcons lookout the trail followed the crest of a wooded ridge before dropping into a narrow and shady valley.
This trail them enters the upper section of Ironbark Gorge before climbing out of the valley and on to IronBark carpark.
From the carpark it was then a short 400m walk back to my starting point.
- 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
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Total distance: 6174 m
Max elevation: 400 m
Min elevation: 176 m
Total climbing: 375 m
Total descent: -375 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Werribee Gorge State Park.
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.
Closest towns to this walk: Bacchus Marsh, Ballan, Blackwood, Geelong, Gellibrand Hill, Gisborne, Gordon, Greendale, Hoppers Crossing, Little River, Melton, Myrniong, Point Cook, Toolern Vale, Werribee
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Werribee Gorge State Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Werribee Gorge State Park
Favourite
Werribee Gorge State Park
Favourite
Werribee Gorge State Park
Favourite
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.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
Packing checklists
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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.
7 Reviews on “Western Bluff & Falcons Lookout Hike (6.1km)”
Hard to belief how close to the CBD this walk actually is. We are fortunate.
Park Trek Walking Holidays absolutely. Although it is really popular these days so it’s hard to find yourself alone 🙂
Love having this park so close to home. Such a fun one to explore.