How Many Apostles Are There?
Think you know the 12 Apostles? Look a little closer. While most visitors count seven rock stacks from the main viewing platform, the story of these iconic formations goes well beyond what first meets the eye.
At first glance you will see 7 rock stacks to the west of the main 12 Apostles viewing platform with the rest hidden by headlands and obscured by other stacks. While this will get you the most accepted answer for most trivia nights.
Additionally, two other notable stacks—Gog and Magog—can be viewed from Gibson Steps Beach. Early photos and postcards referred to the larger of these, Gog, as Ironclad Rock.
Further east, sea stacks labelled Sow and Piglets on C.J. La Trobe’s 1846 chart can be seen from the Razorback viewing area at Loch Ard Gorge. These more hidden stacks were likely part of the original formations visitors once referred to as the 12 Apostles, back when they viewed the coast by foot or horse-drawn cart, long before the development of the current viewing platform.
Access Information
- While there is a small car park at Gibson Steps, it often reaches capacity, so we recommend visitors take the scenic route along the Great Ocean Walk.
- This 1.1 km (2.2 km return) trail departs from the south side of the Twelve Apostles Visitor Facility, offering a safe and stunning walk to the beach and Gog and Magog.

For personalised advice and expert recommendations, stop by one of our Visitor Information Centres. Our local Great Ocean Road experts can help you tailor your trip and provide insights on top attractions, camping spots, and travel tips to make your stay unforgettable.
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