Attractions and Places To See in Lerderderg State Park - Top 4
Best attractions and places to see in Lerderderg State Park, located an hour from Melbourne, offers a diverse landscape carved by the Lerderderg River through a deep gorge. The park features significant natural landmarks like Mount Blackwood and diverse ecosystems, transitioning from dry forests to damper woodlands. It also holds cultural importance as traditional Country of the Wurundjeri People and contains numerous goldmining relics from the Victorian gold rush era.
Best attractions and places to see in Lerderderg State Park
- The most popular attractions is Grahams Dam, a lake that is a popular riverside spot reached by a short walk upstream from Mackenzies Flat. Shallow pools and stepping‑stone crossings make it a family‑friendly destination, with swimming and picnicking along the riverbank.
- Another must-see spot is Link Track Two, a trail that climbs steeply through dry sclerophyll forest and rocky slopes. It provides a direct route between the lower valley terrain and the higher forested slopes, offering views back into the gorge.
- Visitors also love Long Point Diversion Dam, an other man-made structure that redirects water from the Lerderderg River through underground tunnels. The surrounding area carries strong links to the region’s gold mining history, where river diversions were cut to expose riverbeds.
- Lerderderg State Park is known for its rugged gorge, historical goldmining relics, and diverse bushwalking trails. Visitors can explore natural features like the Lerderderg River and Mount Blackwood, alongside sites of Aboriginal cultural significance.
- The attractions in Lerderderg State Park are appreciated by the komoot community, with 12 upvotes and 4 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Link Track Two
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Grahams Dam
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Long Point Diversion Dam
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River Trail in Lerderderg State Park
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The path can only be found in parts with the help of Komoot navigation, it almost seems like a cross country hike, partly over rocky sections. At the end you stand on a small precipice and look down at the path to the car park - one last climb.
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Lerderderg Gorge Track
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The Lerderderg Gorge Track follows the river through one of the most rugged sections of the state park, weaving between steep ridgelines, rocky escarpments, and dense bushland deep inside the gorge. Around the Mackenzies Flat to Grahams Dam section, the track is easy to follow, with stepping stone river crossings, shaded forest, and regular access down to the riverbed and waterholes. Further into the gorge, the terrain becomes much steeper and more challenging, especially after rain.
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Long Point Diversion Dam redirects water from the Lerderderg River through underground tunnels toward Goodman Creek and Lake Merrimu. The structure sits within the gorge landscape, contrasting with the otherwise rugged and natural river environment. The surrounding area also carries strong links to the region’s gold mining history, where river diversions and tunnels were historically cut through the gorge to expose riverbeds for alluvial gold mining.
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Link Track Two is a narrow bush track that climbs steeply through dry sclerophyll forest and rocky slopes. The surface is often loose, with exposed roots and sections of erosion typical of spur tracks in the area, so a slower pace and being mindful of loose shale underfoot are good ideas. It provides a direct route between the lower valley terrain and the higher forested slopes, and though challenging, there are beautiful views back into the gorge along the way.
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Grahams Dam is a popular riverside spot reached by a short walk upstream from Mackenzies Flat. Shallow pools and stepping‑stone crossings make it a family‑friendly destination, with swimming and picnicking along the riverbank. The dam area is one of the most accessible highlights of the gorge.
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If you do the long loop from the Lerderderg Gorge car park (clockwise, crossing the river that no longer really exists at the weir), you come to a long, boring and steadily ascending road immediately after the weir, from which you then turn right onto this section. And it easily makes up for the section you have just walked. The path can only be found in parts with the help of Komoot navigation, it almost seems like a cross country hike, partly over rocky sections. At the end you stand on a small precipice and look down at the path to the car park - one last climb.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features define Lerderderg State Park?
The park is dominated by the dramatic Lerderderg Gorge, carved by the Lerderderg River through sandstone and slate, reaching up to 300 meters deep. You'll also find Mount Blackwood, a prominent volcanic cone, and diverse ecosystems ranging from dry stringybark forests to damper messmate and peppermint-gum forests. The river itself is recognized as a Heritage River.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints of Lerderderg Gorge?
The rugged landscape throughout the park offers dramatic views of the gorge, especially for experienced hikers. Trails like Link Track Two provide beautiful views back into the gorge along the way as it climbs steeply through the forest.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for all abilities?
Yes, for a gentle stroll, you can walk upstream from Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area to Grahams Dam. This section of the Lerderderg Gorge Track is easy to follow, with shaded forest and regular access to the riverbed. The walk to Grahams Dam is considered one of the most accessible highlights of the gorge.
What are some challenging hiking trails in Lerderderg State Park?
For a more challenging experience, the Lerderderg Gorge Track further into the gorge becomes much steeper and more demanding, especially after rain. River Trail in Lerderderg State Park also offers rocky sections and can feel like a cross-country hike in parts.
What historical sites related to the gold rush can I explore?
The park is rich with gold rush relics. You can find old water races (many now walking trails), mine shafts, and the remains of stone dwellings. A notable site is the Lerderderg River Diversion Tunnel, dug between 1855 and 1870 to divert the river for gold prospecting. The Long Point Diversion Dam also highlights the historical practice of redirecting water for mining.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Lerderderg State Park?
Absolutely. Grahams Dam, reached by a short walk from Mackenzies Flat, is a popular family-friendly spot with shallow pools and opportunities for picnicking and swimming along the riverbank. Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area itself is ideal for picnics and barbecues.
When is the best time of year to visit Lerderderg State Park?
Late winter and spring are particularly beautiful, offering a spectacular display of wildflowers. The weather is also generally milder, making it ideal for hiking and exploring. Always check current weather conditions before your visit, as terrain can become challenging after rain.
Are there picnic areas or camping options within the park?
Yes, popular picnic spots include Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area, O'Briens Crossing, and Shaws Lake. For camping, O'Briens Crossing offers basic options (self-sufficiency required), and Lerderderg Campground provides basic bush camping, where you'll need to bring your own drinking water.
What outdoor activities are available besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, the park and surrounding areas offer opportunities for mountain biking and cycling. You can find various routes for these activities, such as the Gisborne Flora Reserve loop for MTB or the Trilogy Lake North loop for touring bicycles. Explore more options in the MTB Trails in Lerderderg State Park and Cycling in Lerderderg State Park guides.
Is swimming allowed in the Lerderderg River?
Yes, some areas of the Lerderderg River are suitable for swimming. Grahams Dam, for instance, features shallow pools popular for swimming and picnicking.
Are dogs permitted in Lerderderg State Park?
Dogs are permitted on lead in designated picnic areas like O'Briens Crossing. However, it's always best to check the latest park regulations on the Parks Victoria website for specific rules regarding pets in other areas of the park.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The park is home to a variety of wildlife. During the day, you might spot Eastern grey kangaroos, swamp wallabies, and echidnas. The river flats, with their blue gums and manna gums, are a haven for koalas. Birdwatchers can look out for sulphur-crested cockatoos, wedge-tailed eagles, and even the superb lyrebird.
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