15 Best Hiking Trails in Victoria

Victoria’s hiking trails offer an incredible mix of coastal walks, mountain climbs, and bushland adventures.

You’ll find iconic routes like the 160-kilometre Grampians Peaks Trail and the challenging Mount Bogong Summit Trail, Victoria’s highest peak at 1,986 metres.

Try the Mount Oberon Summit Track or Werribee Gorge Circuit for shorter walks, where you can spot native wildlife and explore ancient geological formations.

The Great Ocean Walk showcases stunning coastal views across its 104-kilometre length, while the Cathedral Range Northern Circuit provides thrilling scrambles and panoramic vistas.

These trails represent just a glimpse of Victoria’s vast network of walking paths.

1. Mount Bogong Summit Trail

The Mount Bogong Summit Trail is one of Australia’s most challenging day hikes at the heart of Victoria’s alpine region.

You’ll need to prepare for an 18-kilometre loop that typically takes 7-8 hours to complete, though you might spend up to 12 hours if you’re taking regular breaks to rest or capture photos of the dramatic landscape.

The trail offers you two main routes to the summit. If you’re up for a direct challenge, take the Staircase Spur, a steep 6-kilometre climb popular with day hikers.

For a gentler ascent, you might prefer the Eskdale Spur, which provides welcome rest stops at locations like Mitchell Hut.

The summit reaches an impressive 1986 meters above sea level, making it the highest peak in Victoria.

You’ll need to be well-prepared for this trek. The terrain is demanding, with gravel paths and exposed ledges, while the weather can change rapidly with snow, strong winds, and fog possible throughout the year.

Make sure you’re physically fit and carry emergency supplies.

There’s untreated water available along the trail, and you’ll find several alpine huts where you can rest and seek shelter if needed.

2. Grampians Peaks Trail

This premier hiking adventure stretches 160 kilometres across Victoria’s rugged Gariwerd landscape, offering 13 days of diverse terrain from Mount Zero to Dunkeld.

You’ll traverse valleys, ridges and waterfalls on a Grade 4 trail that combines 60 kilometres of upgraded paths with 100 kilometres of newly constructed tracks.

The trail is divided into three main stages, starting with the Northern section from Mount Zero to Halls Gap.

You’ll need solid hiking experience and good fitness to tackle this challenging trail, as you’ll climb more than 7,500 metres in elevation across the journey.

The path leads you through rocky ridges, alpine areas, and dry and wet forests, with carefully crafted stone stairs to aid your ascent.

Along the way, you’ll find 12 environmentally sensitive hiker camps, perfect for breaking up your journey.

If you’re not keen on the whole 13-day adventure, you can access the trail from various points, including Halls Gap, for shorter walks.

The trail’s well-marked with yellow markers and signs, though you’ll still need good navigation skills, especially on the Major Mitchell Plateau, where weather can change rapidly.

3. Cathedral Range Northern Circuit

Located just two hours from Melbourne, the Cathedral Range Northern Circuit offers a challenging 13.5-kilometer trek through dramatic rock outcrops and open forest terrain.

You’ll need 5-6 hours to complete this medium-hard trail that takes you through some of Victoria’s most striking landscapes.

Download Maps.Me for navigation, as phone reception can be unreliable in the lower areas of the circuit.

The circuit begins at either Neds Gully Campground or Cooks Mill, climbing to an impressive height of 840 metres at Cathedral Peak.

Along the way, you’ll traverse several notable peaks, including Little Cathedral and Cathedral North, with optional detours to Neds Peak and the Jawbone Peaks.

The trail features a mix of uneven surfaces and steep rock faces, requiring decent fitness and careful navigation.

You’ll want to pack for variable weather conditions, as they can change rapidly in this region.

The track is well-marked, but you must stay alert for markers to maintain your course.

If you’re planning an overnight stay, you’ve got several camping options, including Cooks Mill and Neds Gully campgrounds, both equipped with basic facilities like non-flush toilets and communal fireplaces.

4. Mount Rosea Loop Walk

Moving from the Cathedral Range to the western reaches of Victoria, the Mount Rosea Loop Walk stands as one of the Grampians National Park‘s most rewarding day hikes.

This challenging 12-kilometre loop takes you through a diverse landscape of sandstone formations and offers spectacular mountain vistas you will never forget.

You’ll need 4-5 hours to complete this walk, which features a mix of steady climbs and steep sections.

While the path is generally well-maintained, you’ll encounter rough patches and overgrown areas requiring careful navigation.

The summit ridge includes light scrambling, though it’s manageable for most experienced bushwalkers.

The narrow slot-like cave and bridge crossing add unique adventure elements to the descent.

Starting from Rosea Car Park, you’ll find the trail best tackled during autumn through spring, as the summer heat can make the journey particularly demanding. You’ll want to pack a map, as the loop section has limited signage.

If you’re less confident with navigation, consider taking the return walk option instead, which offers clearer markers and equally impressive scenery.

Watch your footing, especially near cliff edges and slippery rocks, and remember that dogs, bicycles, and camping aren’t permitted on the trail.

5. Mount Oberon Summit Track

A crown jewel of Wilsons Promontory National Park, the Mount Oberon Summit Track rewards hikers with breathtaking 360-degree views of Victoria’s spectacular coastline.

This 6.8-kilometre return journey takes you through a challenging yet manageable terrain perfect for hiking and trail running enthusiasts.

You’ll start your adventure at Telegraph Saddle Carpark, where it’s best to arrive before 9 am to secure parking or catch the free shuttle from Tidal River Campground.

Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons to visit for smaller crowds and pleasant hiking conditions.

The track features steady inclines and switchbacks, culminating in uneven rocky steps near the summit.

As you climb, you’ll have chances to spot native wildlife, including wombats, emus, and echidnas.

At the summit, you’re treated to panoramic views of Little Oberon Bay, Norman Bay, and Australia’s southernmost tip.

The hike typically takes about two hours to return, but you might want to time your visit for sunset – remember to bring a torch for the descent.

Be prepared for all weather conditions, as the summit can be windy and cool even during the summer.

Mind the unprotected cliffs at the top and download a park map before you begin.

6. Werribee Gorge Circuit

While Mount Oberon offers coastal vistas, the Werribee Gorge Circuit takes you into Victoria’s dramatic inland wilderness.

This moderately challenging 8.5-kilometre trail winds alongside the scenic Werribee River, where you’ll encounter towering cliffs and lush vegetation.

Starting from Meikles Point Picnic Area, you’ll find ample parking and essential facilities, including toilets and picnic tables.

The area’s rich history spans 500 million years, revealing fascinating geological formations throughout the gorge.

The circuit typically takes about three hours to complete and showcases the best of Victoria’s rugged terrain.

You’ll traverse a mix of gentle paths and steep sections, with some areas requiring careful navigation across natural surfaces.

A notable feature is the cable-assisted rock climb, adding an element of adventure to your journey.

The Eastern and Western viewpoints offer spectacular perspectives of the gorge and surrounding Eucalypt forest.

For experienced hikers seeking an extra challenge, you can extend your adventure through Ironbark Gorge, though this adds roughly two hours to your journey.

It’s best to tackle the circuit anti-clockwise from Meikles Point. Don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

While suitable year-round, always check weather conditions before setting out.

7. Federation Track West

Rich in historical significance, the Federation Track West stretches from Melbourne to Adelaide, following a carefully mapped route of existing bushwalking trails, fire tracks, and coastal paths.

You’ll discover a journey that connects major landmarks of Australia’s Federation, including the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, where the first Federal Parliament convened.

The track completion represents decades of dedication, with extensive documentation efforts from 2006 to 2013.

The track’s been thoughtfully designed to accommodate walkers of all ages, avoiding challenging river crossings where possible.

While you won’t find physical markers along the way, you’ll have access to detailed GPS waypoints and extensive track guides through the official website.

As you traverse the route, you’ll pass through numerous National Parks and State Forests, experiencing diverse Australian landscapes.

Planning your walk is straightforward, as you can tackle the track in sections. You’ll find plenty of towns and cities along the way for resupplying and resting.

Remember to prepare thoroughly with appropriate gear and navigation tools, as you’ll need to rely on topographic maps and GPS coordinates rather than traditional track markers.

The route was thoroughly documented between 2006 and 2013, ensuring you follow a well-tested path.

8. Australian Alps Walking Track

Stretching across 655 kilometres between Walhalla, Victoria, and Tharwa near Canberra, the Australian Alps Walking Track stands as one of Australia’s most challenging long-distance hiking trails.

You’ll journey through four national parks, including Alpine National Park and Kosciuszko National Park, and encounter some of Australia’s most dramatic mountain landscapes.

When planning your trek, allow five to eight weeks to complete the trail. You’ll need highly developed navigation skills, as the track isn’t fully signposted.

The route takes you across exposed high plains and significant peaks, including Mount Kosciuszko, Mount Bogong, and Bimberi Peak, with a total elevation gain of 30,939 metres.

The Victorian section follows spurs and ridges while offering more varied terrain than its NSW counterpart.

The best time for your adventure is between November and April, when weather conditions are most favourable.

You’ll want to note that dogs aren’t permitted on the trail. While the fastest supported completion was just under 11 days, most hikers take their time to appreciate the journey.

The track’s challenging nature and stunning alpine scenery make it a bucket-list achievement for serious bushwalkers.

9. Baw Baw Alpine Trail

The Baw Baw Alpine Trail, also known as the Great Walhalla Alpine Trail, offers a challenging 42-kilometre trek through Victoria’s pristine snowgum forests.

You’ll need three days to complete this Grade 4 trail, which takes you through diverse landscapes featuring mountain ash, myrtle beech, and seasonal wildflowers.

Bus transfers from Melbourne are available for hikers needing transport to the trailhead.

As you traverse the trail, you’ll encounter significant landmarks, including Mushroom Rocks, Mt St Gwinear, and the historic Talbot Peak hut ruins.

The journey rewards you with panoramic views over Gippsland from various mountain summits, connecting you to the region’s rich mining heritage through its endpoint in Walhalla.

While the trail’s free to access, you’ll need solid navigation skills as directional signage can be limited.

You’ll find camping areas with fire pits along the route and reliable water near Mt Erica carpark and Mushroom Rocks.

The trail’s terrain is demanding, with long, rough, and steep sections.

Remember that winter brings snow to some sections, so plan your trek accordingly. The trail links to the Australian Alpine Walking Track, making it part of a broader network of highland paths.

10. Steavenson Falls Walking Circuit

Located near Marysville, Steavenson Falls Walking Circuit offers both casual strollers and adventurous hikers a chance to experience Victoria’s tallest accessible waterfall.

You’ll find a well-maintained 700m path leading to the main viewing platform, which is wheelchair friendly and provides spectacular views of the 84m falls.

The falls were first opened to tourists in 1866, making them one of Victoria’s oldest natural attractions.

If you’re up for a greater challenge, you can take the steep 800m track to the top of the falls, typically taking about 30 minutes to complete.

The falls are illuminated until 11 pm each night, powered by a unique cross-flow turbine hydroelectric plant – the only one in Australia.

You’ll need to pay a parking fee at the Falls Road car park, which helps maintain the site’s facilities, including public toilets and educational viewing platforms.

While dogs aren’t permitted on the falls track, you can bring them on lead along most of the Tree Fern Gully Trail.

Keep your eyes peeled for platypus in the nearby river pools, and remember to check weather conditions before you set out. The falls flow year-round thanks to their forested catchment area.

11. Yarra Bend Park Trail

Just minutes from Melbourne’s bustling CBD lies Yarra Bend Park, Victoria’s largest area of natural bushland.

This 260-hectare sanctuary offers an impressive network of walking trails alongside 12 kilometres of the winding Yarra River, making it a perfect escape from city life.

You’ll find several trails to suit your fitness level, from the moderate 1.9-kilometre Yarra Bend Park Loop to the easier 3-kilometre Wurundjeri Spur Lookout to Bellbird Park track.

The Dights Falls Walk takes you past historic sites, whilst the Fairfield Amphitheatre Walk provides a leisurely 30-minute stroll where you can bring your dog on a lead.

The park is particularly spectacular at dusk when over 30,000 bats can be observed taking flight from their roosting spots.

As you explore the park’s wild river escarpments and open woodlands, you’ll encounter more than 320 indigenous plants and diverse wildlife species.

Keep your eyes peeled for platypuses in the river, flying foxes overhead, and various native birds and reptiles.

The park’s facilities include toilets near Fairfield Amphitheatre, canoe hire at Studley Park Boathouse, and several picnic areas to rest and refuel during your walk.

12. Wilsons Promontory Lighthouse Walk

Standing as one of Victoria’s most iconic coastal hikes, Wilsons Promontory Lighthouse Walk challenges adventurers with a 19.1-kilometre trek through diverse landscapes to reach mainland Australia’s southernmost lighthouse.

You’ll traverse through eucalypt forests, sandy coastal tee-tree scrub, and granite-strewn paths as you make your way to this historic destination.

The trail showcases the dramatic Bass Strait coastline throughout the journey, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.

The walk typically takes 6-7 hours one way, and you’ll want to plan for an overnight stay in the shared cottages at the light station.

Before starting, you must check in at the Tidal River Visitor Centre and verify you’ve booked your accommodation in advance. It’s crucial to carry sufficient water and wear sturdy walking boots.

You can choose between two main routes: the direct path from Telegraph Saddle Carpark or a longer alternative via Waterloo Bay.

The best time to attempt this challenging trail is between September and May.

While mobile coverage is unreliable throughout the walk, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular coastal views, abundant birdlife, and unforgettable sunrises and sunsets from your vantage point at the lighthouse.

13. Mount Buffalo Gorge Loop

While Wilsons Promontory offers coastal drama, the Mount Buffalo Gorge Heritage Walk takes you on a gentler 2.5-kilometre journey through Victoria’s stunning alpine environment.

Starting at the historic Mount Buffalo Chalet, you’ll follow a well-marked path that guides you through a remarkable landscape of towering Alpine Ash and twisted Snow Gums.

As you go along the trail, you’ll discover massive granite tors that define the region’s unique geology.

The path leads you to spectacular lookouts where you can pause to take sweeping views of the gorge below.

One of the highlights of your hour-long walk is Crystal Brook Falls, which provides a revitalizing interlude to your journey.

You’ll find interpretive signs throughout the trail that share the area’s stories through the perspective of Guide Alice, adding historical context to your walk.

The trail is hectic during weekends and holidays, so plan your visit accordingly for a more peaceful experience.

The trail’s easy grade makes it accessible for most visitors, and you won’t need a map to navigate the marked path.

Don’t forget to check seasonal access, as winter brings parking restrictions at the Gorge Day Visitor Area.

Toilets are available nearby, and you can combine this walk with other activities like rock climbing or hang gliding.

14. The Razorback to Mount Feathertop

The Razorback to Mount Feathertop ranks among Victoria’s most challenging and rewarding alpine hikes, stretching 22 kilometres across a dramatic high ridge between Mount Hotham and Mount Feathertop.

Starting from Diamantina Hut near Mount Hotham Village, you’ll traverse a spectacular narrow ridge above the tree line, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

The trail is graded as a Grade 4 hike, making it a difficult but achievable challenge for experienced hikers.

The trail alternates between rocky sections and grassy ridges, culminating in a steep 1.5-kilometre ascent to Mount Feathertop’s summit at 1,922 metres.

You’ll need 7-9 hours to complete the return journey, and it’s best attempted during the snow-free months from November to April.

The exposed nature of the trail means you’re vulnerable to sudden weather changes, so you’ll need to be well-prepared.

If you’re up for extending your adventure, you can stay overnight at Federation Hut, where rainwater tanks are available.

Alternatively, you might consider combining the Razorback with the Bungalow Spur Track for a varied loop, though this option requires car shuttling arrangements.

Remember to carry plenty of water, food, and emergency shelter.

15. Great Ocean Walk

Victoria’s premier coastal trek spans 104 kilometres from Apollo Bay to the iconic Twelve Apostles, offering hikers a stunning multi-day adventure along the southwest coast.

You’ll discover a more intimate perspective of the Great Ocean Road as you traverse rugged coastal scenery, dense forests, and pristine sandy beaches over five to eight days.

The best times to experience this trek are during Spring and Autumn when temperatures are mild and conditions most favourable.

The trail is conveniently divided into eight sections with seven hike-in campgrounds, allowing you to plan your journey at your preferred pace.

Going westward, you’ll encounter significant landmarks, including the historic Cape Otway Lighthouse, the dramatic Castle Cove Lookout, and the wild Johanna Beach.

The path reveals hidden treasures like Rainbow Falls and Milanesia Beach, which aren’t accessible by car.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker completing the trek in five days or prefer a more leisurely eight-day journey, you can customise your experience.

Services like Walk 91 offer luggage transport, letting you travel light.

You’ll spot native wildlife, walk beneath towering mountain ash trees, and witness the raw beauty of the Great Southern Ocean from various dramatic vantage points.

Frequently Asked Questions