West Melbourne and Beyond

O'Briens Crossing Circuit Walk - Lerderderg State Park

O'Briens Crossing Circuit Walk Lerderderg State Park Victoria – Route Tips Map

Circuit Walk Overview

Looking for a circuit that blends river song, ridge views and living history. My pick is the Circuit Walk that starts at O'Briens Crossing in Lerderderg State Park. It links Byers Back Track,The Tunnel East Walk and Cowans Track into one satisfying loop.

It's a simple, easy, short and adventurous without the fuss. Perfect for this mid forties mum with two children who love a wander while I soak up the country calm and reset for the week ahead.

At 30 mins (if that) this is a small walk to add if you are coming to O'Briens Crossing for a picnic. I wouldn't come here specifically for this walk given it's super short duration. The Circuit walk really is designed for visitors and particularly families who need something to do after they've enjoyed their picnic lunch or need to provide some entertainment for the kids.

Eastern Peake Cellar Door summary image — *Image: West Melbourne And Beyond.*

Circuit snapshot for planning

Start at the day visitor car park area at the river. Follow steps up towards Byers Back Track. This ensures you'll have elevated views before you descend down to river level.

Within a minute or two you'll reach a sign "Circuit Walk" where you'll make a right turn.

O'Briens Crossing Circuit Walk sign — *Image: West Melbourne And Beyond. Turn right.*

You will continue walking on this track that is basically a ridge line above the river. Most of the views will be to your right.

O'Briens Crossing Circuit Walk view across the river — *Image: West Melbourne And Beyond. View across the river.*

Just keep walking and eventually you'll reach a point where you begin you descent and there is a series of steps.

Circuit Walk descent — *Image: West Melbourne And Beyond. The descent.*

Route highlights you will love

Byers Back Track gives airy benches above the Lerderderg River gorge while East Walk hugs the water for reflections and birdsong. Cowans Track adds a steady climb through quiet forest. It is a full bodied mix of terrain that keeps everyone engaged from first step to last chocolate biscuit.

The Tunnel and a touch of gold rush story

The Tunnel is a hand cut diversion carved to move the river and expose rich gravels for miners. Hearing water surge through rock shaped by determined hands is a goosebump moment and a fun history spark for the kids. Views are best from the opposite bank when the river is safe to cross so choose the safest option on the day.

Track conditions and difficulty

Expect narrow benched sections above drop offs plus short steep pinches and rock underfoot. East Walk can be rough after rain and river stones get slippery so take it steady and keep little legs close. Good trail shoes water and a downloaded map are smart choices for a calm and golden day out.

When to go and what to pack

Spring and early summer bring wildflowers and clear views through the canopy. Start early for cool air and softer light. Pack layers snacks two litres of water per adult and a small first aid kit. Reception fades in the gorge so let someone know your loop and your return time.

Getting there and parking

Reach O'Briens Crossing via the Western Freeway then Greendale Trentham Road and finally O'Briens Road which is unsealed and usually fine in dry weather. Parking fills quickly on sunny weekends so arrive early and ease into the day without a rush.

Why this circuit wins my heart

The loop feels complete and satisfying with river magic ridge views and a real sense of place. It is the kind of walk where conversation flows and the kids glow on the drive home. Trivia: The Lerderderg River has cut a gorge up to three hundred metres deep creating a valley that almost splits the park in two which is why the views feel so dramatic so close to Melbourne.

Getting there and bases

O'Briens Crossing is located at O'Briens Road Blackwood Victoria 3458.

Drive times (approx.): Melbourne to O'Briens Crossing about one hour fifteen minutes; Bacchus Marsh to O'Briens Crossing about thirty five minutes.
Good bases: Blackwood and Trentham are calm country bases with cafes gardens short walks and easy access to the park.
Visitor Centres: Bacchus Marsh Visitor Information Centre at 215 Main Street Bacchus Marsh for maps and local tips.

Nearby Wineries and Tourist Destinations

While you are here why not visit these other great locations:

Blackwood Mineral Springs Reserve: Classic mineral springs and picnic space. Address 41 Golden Point Road Blackwood Victoria 3458.
Garden of St Erth: Historic garden with Diggers shop and seasonal colour. Address 189 Simmons Reef Road Blackwood Victoria 3458.
Hanging Rock Reserve: Iconic volcanic formation with walks and picnic areas. Address South Rock Road Newham Victoria 3442.
Hanging Rock Winery: Cellar door tastings with views to the rock. Address 88 Jim Road Newham Victoria 3442.
Kyneton Botanic Gardens: Heritage gardens by the Campaspe River. Address 17A Mollison Street Kyneton Victoria 3444.
Mackenzies Flat Picnic Area: Riverside picnic spot and gentle walk to Grahams Dam. Address Lerderderg Gorge Road Darley Victoria 3340.
Mount Macedon Memorial Cross: Significant memorial with sweeping views. Address Cameron Drive Mount Macedon Victoria 3441.
Mount Macedon Winery: Cellar door and dining with rural views. Address 433 Bawden Road Woodend Victoria 3442.
Trentham Falls: Tall single drop waterfall in cool forest. Address Falls Road Trentham Victoria 3458.