Heathcote - Pink Cliffs



Heathcote - Pink Cliffs

The Pink Cliffs near Heathcote are an interesting and colourful phenomenon which was exposed by early gold mining activities.

The McIvor gold rush began in April 1853 and attracted thousands of prospectors. They swarmed throughout the area and quickly exhausted gold in the shallow, conglomerate- free grounds.

In later years, intensive mining was limited to deep leads as water shortage in the hotter months prevented worthwhile 'surfacing' operations. Sluicing work was carried on until the early 1880's and it was in this period that work in the in Pink Cliffs area revealed these colourful 'hills'

Visitors will note as the wander through the spectacular mini gorges a wide variety of small stones throughout the strata, particularly in the dark brown gravel cliffs. Of interest too, are the many pieces of smooth ironstone which have a distinctive volcanic appearance. The colourful cliffs are of a fine clay, which powders to an almost talcum like texture.

It is a short walk of 250 meters to the lower viewing area or the longer 500 meter walk to an upper viewing area.

Please keep to the tracks and not damage the fragile cliffs in the surrounding area.



Location


Pink Cliffs Road,  Heathcote 3523 Map



Heathcote - Pink CliffsPink Cliffs Road,, Heathcote, Victoria, 3523