Distance: 7.5 Km | Duration: 4.5 Hrs | Grade: Grade 3 | Rating: | Style: Return | Map
About the Walk
Overview
View of The Fortress, several waterfalls, Billywing Gorge.
The Walk in Detail
From the parking area on Harrops Track, begin the walk on the Fortress trail. The first 1.1km is on a nice wide, sandy track. Proceed past the turn-off to the Fortress. When you reach the end of the sandy track, you will proceed along the overgrown walking track on the south side of Deep Creek.
After approx. 400m, you will come to the ‘Cool Chamber’ – a nice spot to rest on a warm day. Pass through the Cool Chamber and cross the creek. The track then continues on the north side of the creek. After another 300m, the track ascends steeply for a short distance. At the top, you are rewarded with a view of the mighty Fortress.
A steep descent sees you crossing the creek once more to the southern side. An easy walk now passes one set of small falls, followed soon by a very picturesque little gorge with a series of waterfalls. This is a good spot for a break or lunch.
A bit of a tricky traverse around the gorge rim, sees you then following the rocky creek bed for another 500m to the mouth of Billywing Gorge. After admiring this feature, re-trace your path back to the cars.
Getting There
From Laharum, drive south and take the Brimpaen Road across to the Henty Hwy. Continue south for 26km. Turn left onto the gravel Billywing Road and follow this onto Harrops Track and past the turn-off to Buandik campground. After 3.2km past this turn-off, you’ll reach the start of the Fortress walking trail. Park here (Grid Ref 123730) Distance to start: 58km Driving time: 50 min.Walk Precautions
Though following an old track, this should mostly be considered an off-track walk. Care needs to be taken to follow the correct track. Rocky sections may be slippery if wet. Two or three minor creek crossings required. Good sturdy footwear is recommended and possibly gaiters.