Pearse Valley Route starts at the end of Pearse Valley Road. The carpark is just before the first river crossing. You are not permitted to drive across this crossing unless you have permission from the landowner.

At the end of the road, cross the river to the true right. This is a deep river crossing (knee or thigh high), so assess the river carefully before crossing. If the river is high, it is better to attempt this route another day.

The route follows the Pearse River upstream on a track above the river. The first 2 km is through private land – there is no hunting allowed unless permitted by the landowner.

The track crosses two side streams then drops down to the river after about 45 minutes. It then continues upstream, crossing the river and side streams many times – good river crossing skills are essential for this trip.

The rocks in the river can be slippery, so pick sturdy footwear with good grip and take care when crossing. The river water is also freezing cold, so bring lots of warm layers.

The route ends at a large grass clearing, near the resurgence of the Pearse River. This is where the Pearse River emerges from the caves under the Pearse Valley.

The Pearse Valley area is a popular hunting spot.

Follow Pearse Valley Road. The carpark is just before the first river crossing. You are not permitted to drive across this crossing unless you have permission from the landowner. The road is very eroded and there are many large rocks, so depending on your vehicle you may need to park earlier.

Good river crossing skills and favourable conditions are essential

This route has many unbridged river crossings – you need good river crossing skills. The crossings will be much more difficult if the river is high, so the best time to tramp this route is when the weather has been dry and the river is low.

Stay safe when crossing rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

Pack warm clothes and sturdy shoes with good grip

The rocks in the river are slippery – wear sturdy shoes with good grip.

The Pearse River emerges from underground at the end of this route, which means the water is freezing cold. You will be crossing the river often, so bring plenty of warm clothes so you can get warm and dry again.