Loch Ard Gorge

It is impossible to walk these trails and not be moved by the powers of nature that have shaped and the shipwreck history that defines the area. Offshore stacks, blowholes and the indescribable beauty of formations like the Razorback and Island arch make this precinct the one with the lot. There is a map of the whole precinct viewable from the main car park and available from the nearby Visitor Information Centre in Port Campbell.

The Loch Ard Gorge is named after the infamous shipwreck of the Loch Ard, which occurred in 1878 just offshore of Mutton Bird Island. Of the 54 passengers and crew aboard, only two teenagers, Eva Carmichael and Tom Pearce, survived, making their way to safety through the gorge’s waters. The tragic loss of life from the Loch Ard is just one of many shipwrecks that litter the coastline, each telling a story of adventure and misfortune. Eva and Tom’s survival became a symbol of hope amidst tragedy.

Temporary Closures at Loch Ard Gorge Precinct

Loch Ard Blowhole Lookout Project – From 15 January 2024, there will be changes to access and car parking at the Loch Ard Gorge precinct, due to construction works starting on a new lookout. To ensure safety of visitors during the project, access to some walking tracks and areas around The Blowhole will be closed, including Thunder Cave and Sherbrook River. 

Parking

Due to construction materials and machinery, there will be a reduction in the number of car parking spaces and restricted turning circles. Caravans and other long vehicles will be required to park in the Loch Ard Gorge car park.

The project will be the third delivered as part of the Victorian Government’s Shipwreck Coast Master Plan. The master plan is investing in projects to improve opportunities for visitors, strengthen the local economy and provide employment opportunities through sustainable tourism.

We apologise for the inconvenience while we deliver this project for the long-term protection and enhancement of this important site.

For further information please visit Parks Victoria

Walks that remain open:

  • Island Arch Lookout
  • Razorback Lookout
  • Mutton Bird Lookout
  • Mutton Bird Island Lookout
  • Walks of Loch Ard Gorge

Walks of Loch Ard Gorge

Trails range from 200m – 3km. Allow 2 – 3 hours to explore the trails

Geology Walk
Level crushed rock and bitumen surface 900m return this trail includes lookouts at The Razorback and Island Arch.

Loch Ard Wreck Lookout
Undulating bitumen access from the main car park to the headland lookout is 600m return.

Wreck of the Loch Ard
1.4km slight inclines on bitumen and crushed rock, narrow in places near the cemetery. Trail connects through to the south of the cemetery and on towards Muttonbird Island lookout.

Thunder Cave
1.1km sealed path that forms part of the 3.2km living on the edge trail.

Living on the Edge
3.2 km with inclines on bitumen and crushed rock. Visitors are not advised to cross the mouth of the Sherbrooke River. River mouth depth and width is variable and currents from river flow and wave and tide input are variable.

Mutton Bird Island Lookout
100m level on crushed rock to the upper deck of the viewing platform there are steps down to the lower viewing platform.

Walkers should make note which of the 3 separate Loch Ard Gorge car parks they parked at.

Access Information

  • The Loch Ard precinct is linked by 3 car parks and four main trails.
  • The designated accessible parking space at Loch Ard Gorge allows for good access to the Geology and Loch Ard lookout trails.
  • Car parks at Mutton Bird island are not suitable for caravans and large vehicles and have no designated accessible parking spaces.
  • There are no toilets on the site

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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