The Scenic Rim via Link 2 is a 16.5km, grade 4 Circuit hike located in Lerderderg State Park Victoria. The hike should take approximately 7hrs to complete.

Summary

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. This is a fantastic but very strenuous walk. The circuit provides access to some more remote sections of the gorge and also bypasses Lerderderg Weir.

The Scenic Rim via Link 2 hike is rated as a difficult circuit . The trail includes water crossings (possibility of your feet getting wet unless river is dry), one steep and steady climb our of the river from Grahams Dam and a significant river section back to Grahams Dam on loose and possibly wet terrain.

Follow the river upstream from Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area to Grahams Dam, which is an attractive pool ideal for swimming. Cross the river at this point and continue along the eastern river bank upstream for approximately 600m (trail marker LER503). Continue past this point along the eastern banks of the river to trail marker LER504. It is worth noting that any mapping system I have used actually shows the Link No. 2 track as starting further around this spur They are all incorrect and the trail actually commences at the marker. Ascent the broad spur via Link 2 Track to the top of the range. Turn right when you reach the Blackwood Ranges Track and continue along this track to the junction of Long Point Track. The Blackwood Ranges track is a well made vehicle track which follows relatively level ground.

Long Point Track descends a steep and rocky ridge into the gorge below. Follow this trail along its length until you emerge onto the Lerderderg River and Weir.

On reaching the river, cross at the safest spot on the southern side of the dam wall. Ascend the metal stairs on the right hand side of the wall and follow the Lerderderg Tunnel Access Track (which is a well made gravel road) as it gradually ascends the eastern side of the range. Pass through the large Southern Rural Water gate and after a short distance keep an eye out for the spur track t your right (it is on a bend just opposite the first road intersection). Commence your descent of the 1.6km Spur Track to the river below. Turning left at the river, follow it downstream to Grahams Dam and back to your start point at MacKenzies Flat Picnic Area.

Tips

• Trail can be taken in any direction.
• The river is prone to flooding so avoid after heavy rains.
• Walking poles will be beneficial.
• This is a challenging walk in the Lerderderg Gorge and is for experienced bush walkers only. It is best to do the walk when the river is fairly low, as many crossings are necessary and at times the riverbed itself is the track. Here you can experience remote, unspoiled bush land.
• Map used: Lerderderg and Werribee Gorges by Meridian.

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