Victoria is a diverse and stunning state in Australia, offering a plethora of hiking trails for nature lovers. From coastal cliffs to lush rainforests and rugged mountain ranges, the state is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, Victoria has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best hiking trails that will take you through the heart of nature’s wonders in this spectacular region.
1. Grampians National Park – The Pinnacle Walk
Overview:
The Grampians National Park is one of Victoria’s most famous natural destinations, known for its dramatic mountain ranges, sweeping views, and rich cultural history. The Pinnacle Walk is a classic hike that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and distant mountains.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 4.2 km (return)
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Spectacular views of Halls Gap and the surrounding Grampians, rocky outcrops, and diverse wildlife.
Why It’s Great:
The Pinnacle Walk takes you through rugged terrain, across steep ridgelines, and leads to the Pinnacle lookout, where you can soak in panoramic views of the region. The hike is surrounded by native flora and fauna, and if you’re lucky, you might spot kangaroos and emus.
2. Wilsons Promontory National Park – Mount Oberon Summit Track
Overview:
Wilsons Promontory, often referred to as “The Prom”, is one of Victoria’s most pristine and scenic national parks. Located at the southernmost tip of the state, Mount Oberon offers hikers a stunning panoramic view of the Promontory, with sweeping vistas of the coastline, beaches, and beyond.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 6.8 km (return)
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: 360-degree views of the Promontory, coastline, beaches, and offshore islands.
Why It’s Great:
The hike up Mount Oberon is well worth the effort for the rewarding views at the summit. Along the way, hikers pass through lush heathland and temperate forests, making it a diverse and fulfilling hike. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted by some of the best coastal views in Victoria.
3. The Great Ocean Walk
Overview:
The Great Ocean Walk is one of Australia’s most iconic coastal hikes, stretching along the spectacular Great Ocean Road. This multi-day trek offers a variety of landscapes, from dense rainforests to sandy beaches and dramatic cliff tops.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 104 km (can be done in sections)
- Time: 6-8 days for the entire walk (or can be split into shorter hikes)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Beautiful coastal cliffs, wild beaches, historic shipwrecks, and stunning views of the Twelve Apostles.
Why It’s Great:
If you’re looking for a long-distance hike, the Great Ocean Walk is perfect. It takes you through diverse landscapes, and you’ll pass by iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. Along the trail, you’ll also have the opportunity to spot local wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, and a variety of bird species.
4. Mount Feathertop – Razorback Trail
Overview:
Located in the Alpine National Park, Mount Feathertop is one of the highest peaks in Victoria. The Razorback Trail takes you along the ridge that leads to the summit, offering breathtaking alpine views along the way.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 22 km (return)
- Time: 7-9 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Alpine scenery, wildflowers (in summer), and views of the Victorian Alps.
Why It’s Great:
The Razorback Trail is a challenging, high-altitude hike that is rewarding for those looking to experience Victoria’s alpine terrain. The views from the summit are incredible, and the surrounding landscape is dotted with alpine meadows and rugged ridgelines. The trail is perfect for experienced hikers looking for a challenge.
5. Dandenong Ranges – 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk
Overview:
The 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk in the Dandenong Ranges National Park is a relatively short, but challenging hike that pays tribute to the soldiers of the Kokoda Track campaign in Papua New Guinea during World War II.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 1.2 km (return)
- Time: 1-1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Steep steps, lush rainforest, and historical significance.
Why It’s Great:
The 1000 Steps is a popular and iconic short hike that challenges hikers with a steep ascent, but rewards them with scenic views and lush rainforest. Along the way, you’ll pass through the ferns and tall trees that are characteristic of the Dandenongs, and you’ll learn about the historical significance of the track as you go.
6. Lerderderg Gorge
Overview:
Located near Melton, Lerderderg Gorge is a hidden gem for nature lovers seeking adventure. The gorge is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, dense forests, and tranquil river views, offering a unique natural experience just outside of Melbourne.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 10 km (loop)
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Rocky gorges, river crossings, and a rich diversity of plant and animal life.
Why It’s Great:
The hike through Lerderderg Gorge is an adventure through a deep, rugged landscape. It’s a great spot for those seeking solitude, as the trail is often less crowded compared to other parks. The rugged terrain, river crossings, and towering cliffs make it an exciting and immersive experience.
7. The Cathedral Range – Cathedral and Razorback Trail
Overview:
The Cathedral Range in Cathedral Ranges State Park offers some of the most dramatic views in Victoria. The Cathedral and Razorback Trail is a stunning hike that takes you across ridgelines and up steep slopes to some of the best panoramic views in the state.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 11 km (one way)
- Time: 5-7 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Jaw-dropping views, dramatic ridgelines, and rocky outcrops.
Why It’s Great:
The Cathedral and Razorback Trail provides an exhilarating challenge with steep ascents, rocky terrain, and breathtaking summit views. The trail rewards hikers with magnificent views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. It’s perfect for experienced hikers seeking a rewarding adventure.
8. The Bogong High Plains
Overview:
The Bogong High Plains in Alpine National Park is a vast, high-altitude region known for its wild beauty. It offers a range of hiking opportunities, with the Razorback Ridge being one of the most popular trails, leading hikers across the rolling plains to stunning views of the mountains and valleys.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 14 km (return)
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Mountain views, alpine meadows, and the opportunity to spot native wildlife.
Why It’s Great:
This hike provides the perfect balance of wilderness and serenity. The Bogong High Plains offers expansive alpine landscapes, wildflowers in summer, and the opportunity to encounter native wildlife like wallabies, wombats, and emus. It’s a peaceful retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
9. Mount Buller – The Summit Walk
Overview:
Mount Buller, one of Victoria’s most popular ski resorts, also offers excellent hiking opportunities in summer. The Summit Walk takes you to the top of the mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the Alpine region.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 3.5 km (one way)
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: Panoramic views, wildflowers, and scenic alpine terrain.
Why It’s Great:
While Mount Buller is known for its winter activities, the Summit Walk in the warmer months is an excellent way to enjoy the region’s alpine beauty. The trail offers great views of the surrounding mountains, and in summer, you’ll see a variety of wildflowers along the way.
Victoria’s hiking trails provide the perfect opportunity to explore some of the state’s most stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re trekking through the towering mountains of the Alpine National Park or enjoying the serenity of Wilsons Promontory, these trails cater to all levels of fitness and experience. So, lace up your boots, grab your gear, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Victoria’s best hiking destinations!
