The Lerderderg River Tunnel

Another prominent feature on the Lerderderg River is the Tunnel. Its distinct name goes after a diversion tunnel was built between 1855 and 1870 to dry a bend in the river for gold mining.

Lerderderg River tunnel
Lerderderg River tunnel

More than one hundred years later it still stands, but has become a natural beauty. unfortunately the upstream or entrance to the tunnel has since been blocked by logs from flooding, making the feature somewhat subdue never less the downstream side is fully unobstructed.

Getting to the Tunnel takes a bit of effort, its at least a 30 minute trek at average pace. The view on the walk is amazing as you follow a track above a valley amongst heavy forest. The track is skinny with a few inclines before coming to a crossroads in which you must head down to the river. The track down to the river is very steep, once at the bottom you will be greeted with the blocked entrance to the tunnel.

Make your way over the small river either by the log/s or rocks and climb up the small hill onto the other side to see the tunnel in its glory. No surprises that the water is crystal clear and you can see some stunning water plants.

Lerderderg River tunnel

Lerderderg River tunnel water plants

Lerderderg River tunnel upstream blockage
Lerderderg River tunnel upstream blockage

Lerderderg River tunnel plant Lerderderg River tunnel inside Lerderderg River tunnel inside 3 Lerderderg River tunnel inside 2 Lerderderg River tunnel growth Lerderderg River tunnel entrance Lerderderg River tunnel downstream Lerderderg River tunnel downstream 2 Lerderderg River tunnel clear water Lerderderg River tunnel clear water 2  Lerderderg River tunnel 5 Lerderderg River tunnel 4 Lerderderg River tunnel 3