Loch Ard Gorge Living on the Edge Walk (Port Campbell National Park)

This area has additional visitor advice This area has reported issues This area is closed

Explore

Loch Ard Gorge Living on the Edge Walk (Port Campbell National Park)

On Mutton Bird Island from September to April you can witness the Shearwaters (Mutton Birds) arriving at dusk. Experience the surging sound and power of the Southern Ocean againist the sea cliffs. Follow the Living on the Edge Walk to Broken Head. Look out for Thunder Cave.

How to get there

Loch Ard Gorge Living on the Edge Walk (Port Campbell National Park)

Loch Ard Gorge Living on the Edge Walk (Port Campbell National Park)

Need to know

Loch Ard Gorge Living on the Edge Walk (Port Campbell National Park)

Safety in nature

You can benefit both mind and body when you get outdoors to explore and experience Victoria's natural places. Before you go, take a look at our safety tips and check our changed conditions and closures information for a great visit.

Accessibility

Visiting a park can be more of a challenge for people with disabilities, however, in Victoria there are a wide range of facilities to help people of all abilities enjoy our wonderful parks around the state. Parks Victoria provides a range of a equipment, including all-terrain and beach wheelchairs, facilities, accommodation and accessibility information and programs to help you plan and enjoy your visit to Victoria's parks.

Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Entry requirements apply for parks and reserves that are usually dog prohibited, such as national parks.

Warnings & Restrictions

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed

Restrictions

  • No camping
  • No dogs allowed
  • No firearms allowed
  • No horses
  • No fires permitted
  • No generators
  • No fishing
  • No motorised vehicles, including electric bikes or scooters allowed on management vehicle only paths, tracks or roads

Warnings

  • Water hazards
    • Rough Surf
    • Strong currents
    • Deep water
  • Terrain hazards
    • Unstable cliffs
    • Slippery rocks
  • Other warnings
    • Unpatrolled area
  • Animals and pests
    • Snakes

Be Prepared

Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks in Victoria’s parks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care. Find out more.

Change of Conditions

Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

The Arch Closure - Port Campbell National Park

The Arch visitor site including lookout, walking trails and carpark remains closed following geotechnical changes and cliff instability. The site has been assessed by a Geotechnical Engineer and Parks Victoria are assessing options for the site. 

Loch Ard Gorge Beach Access Stairs Closure

The beach access has been closed following an independent geotechnical inspection after a rock fall over the steps themselves. Parks Victoria is working with The Great Ocean Road and Parks Authority as well as Traditional Owners to implement identified works required to make the site safe for all users.  

Great Ocean Walk - Important Notice

Parks Victoria is received increasing reports of concerning observations on the Great Ocean Walk .

This includes use of bikes, horses, unrestrained dogs, campfires and hikers arriving at their pre-booked campsites only to find them already occupied.

🔹 All hikers must book a campsite before their trip, even though camping is free.
🔹 Camping without a booking or outside designated areas is not permitted.
🔹 Campfires are NOT permitted at any Great Ocean Walk hike-in campsite.
🔹 Only medical certified companion animals are permitted (on lead).
🔹 The Great Ocean Walk is a walking/hiking trail - not a  long distance horse, trail bike or Mountain bike course.

National Park Regulations Apply.
 
Parks Victoria Authorised Officers patrol the Great Ocean Walk.  
Evidence of a booking must be shown to a Parks Victoria Ranger on request.
 
To ensure a fair and safe experience for all:
✅ Book your campsite before starting your walk.
✅ Only camp in designated areas and at your assigned site.
✅ Respect fellow hikers by only using the site you have booked.
✅ Do not light campfires—use fuel stoves for cooking.
✅ Do report observations of concern.

If you observe:
🚨 A campfire, bikes, animals other than native ones or hikers occupying an already booked site, please report it immediately (when safe to do so) to Parks Victoria on 131 963.

⚠️ Parks Victoria cannot respond to emergency situations involving hikers and campers who have not booked a campsite.

Thank you for helping us protect the Great Ocean Walk and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.
For bookings and further information, visit Parks Victoria’s website.

Parks Victoria
Caring for Country, Connecting People

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