The Lerderderg State Park is rugged and remote with limited directional signage. You should be prepared for all conditions and have suitable navigation experience (not just a phone app) before venturing beyond the main picnic/parking areas or Grahams Dam. Many rescues have occurred in this park that could have been avoided.
This hike is a variation of one of Lerderderg's most interesting and varied circuit walks. This variation follows the Lerderderg River downstream from the bottom of the Kenworthy Track to the start of the Razorback Spur. The name of this hike is inspired by the 3km section along the rocky Lerderderg River. It is advisable not to follow the river section if the river level is high or following heavy rain.
The Whiskey Creek Circuit trail passes various gold diggings, follows a scenic section of the historic water race and crosses one of Lerderderg's deepest tributaries, Whisky Creek. Sweeping views of the gorge and a strong sense of history add greatly to this walks appeal.
- This is a difficult hike with river and creek crossings (although possibly dry in summer and autumn), a number of steep sections and undefined trails. Poles will be useful.
- Suggested items to pack: Day Pack with Picnic Lunch and at least 2-3 litres of water.
- Do not enter the river gorge following heavy rain as it may be in flood
- Hiking poles recommended and I also highly recommend water shoes if you have them as it will make the crossings easier.
Total distance: 12426 m
Max elevation: 641 m
Min elevation: 379 m
Total climbing: 679 m
Total descent: -679 m
Download file:
Whiskey%20on%20the%20Rocks.gpx
From Melbourne, follow the Western Freeway 9km past Bacchus Marsh and take the Myrniong exit. Continue along the Myrniog-Greendale Road for 1km, then turn right on the Mount Blackwood Road. Follow this narrow surfaced road north for 10km to pull into a turnoff on the right at Square Bottle Track (just 250m past Shuter Track). Park near the gate overlooking a small dam.
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.
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.
Looking for things to do in Lerderderg State Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
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.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
3 Reviews on “Whiskey On the Rocks Hike (12.5km)”
Training run Tim, or have you already done it?
Veronica Strachan
When is it Elly?
when??I’m keen.
Who’s in!!? Angela Rebecka Sherwood Rhiannon Koch
Elise
Elly Stringer when?
Havent done it yet Jo Tyson. Its close to the DU135 course…
Hell yeah! Let me know when you have two days off, I will fly down so we can do the track! I miss ? so much!!
Im back there this sunday morning been walkn tracks in other areas , might do this one.
I’m free….. oh hangon, shit.
Karen H McGregor Baker
Kate Patterson….. Sunday ?
Lederderg looks exciting Michael. A few of us are planning to trek it over the coming month or so. Thanks for inspiring us to head this way?
Leesa Swanson sounds good. I’m back on the 11th if you haven’t already done it by then. 🙂
Let’s do it! 12.5k in 5 hours sounds tough!
Lock it in
Maaaaybe??
May Ling Yong
Michelle Krivohlavek
Peggy Peng Queens birthday weekend hike?
Sheree McKenzie, Lederderg keeps calling….?
Slightly insane…gotta walk down into Whisky Creek then out. Down Kenworthy to the river…insanely steep downhill. Along the river to Razorback spur…madness. Then up the Razorback…wow?
Suzie Sharp Joelene Gordon-Cooke Tracky Dax maybe a good one to begin the new year with?