Distance: 8.6 Km | Duration: Hrs | Grade: Grade 3 | Rating: | Style: Circuit | Map
About the Walk
Overview
A 9.5km circuit walk following two historic water races cut above the Lerderderg River and visiting Crown Dam.
The Walk in Detail
Starting at the corner of the car park opposite the Jack Cann Reserve are ancient pine trees marking the start of the Lerderderg Heritage River Walk. After approximately 100m, turn Left (West)onto the Lerderderg Heritage River Track following the upper race NW and North through messmate and stringy bark clad hillsides, weaving in and out of fern lined gullies – crossing Lerderderg Road after 600m, and again at a further 800m. After a further 2.7 kms, at the point where the Lerderderg Road is crossed for the third time, turn left and walk 50m and straight through the track intersection – veering Right (NE) to Crown Dam for lunch. Water here was conveyed by race for use at the Imperial Mine.
After lunch, continue North on the Lerderderg Heritage River Track, then looping South along the picturesque lower South for the remaining 3.4 kms back to the start, via ferny glades, blackwoods and tall timbers.
Getting There
From Trentham muster point turn right onto Falls Rd, and drive 750m to the intersection of Cosmos Rd, then turn right. Drive for to Blackwood, then turn right onto Simmons Reef Rd. After 150m veer left to stay on Simons Reef Road. After 750m veer right, then continue for a further 1.0 kms and turn left onto Simmons Reef Rd. Continue for 600m to Garden of St Erth carpark. Driving distance from Trentham: 14.5 kms.
Walk Precautions
Parts of the walk are on narrow former water races with steep sides. Several short, sharp hills. Steps to Crown Dam can be hazardous. Walking poles are recommended. Numerous mine shafts near the walking tracks.
Additional Information
Blackwood
No
Central Victoria
2023