Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the challenging and scenic Eagle Peaks trail in Victoria's Alpine National Park, a mere 227km from Melbourne. Starting from Davons Flat, this 13.7km, Grade 4, one-way hike will take you to Eight Mile Gap, traversing steep, rocky terrains, and narrow ridges. The journey rewards experienced hikers with stunning views from the 1,445-metre summit. This adventure requires a good level of fitness, no fear of heights, and an appreciation for remote, natural areas.

Length:

13.7km

Duration:

5.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 1456m

Min elevation: 457m

Total Ascent: 1446m

Start: Davons Flat

End: Eight Mile Gap

Alpine National Park

Victoria

Nearby town: Mansfield

From state capital: 227km

Latitude: -37.18888942

Longitude: 146.3499091

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Hike overview

Eagle Peaks are in the heart of The Governors Remote & natural Area of the Alpine National Park, a remote area above the Howqua River. The Eagle Peaks and Eight Mile Gap is an extremely challenging hike that should only be undertaken by experienced hikers.

The Eagle Peaks and Eight Mile Gap hike commences at Davons Flat (also referred to as Dabons Flat on some maps), approximately 700m north east along Brocks Road from Sheepyard Flat. Follow the Eagle Peaks trail as it quickly ascends to 853m elevation where the spur narrows considerably. Continue to follow the trail south east to 932m elevation before turning east then south east to follow the ridgeline. The Eagle Peaks ridge continues to narrow and is steep and rocky in places. This section requires that you don't have a fear of heights or exposed ledges with the terrain being near-vertical in places to the 1,445 metre summit.

From the summit, at 1421m elevation, follow the disused 4WD track south east to the final rocky peak then continue to the junction of Brocks Road and Bluff Link Road, Eight Mile Gap.

Be Prepared

This hike requires that you have a sufficient level of equipment (in good working order), fitness and self-reliance. A PLB is also highly recommended as this is a remote area. The last water source is in the creek crossing just before the ascent to Mount Darling. You will need to collect enough water to get you to your camp site and through the second day.

Trail features

Track grade

Grade 4 (Hard) - Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.

Walk map and GPX file
Eagle Peaks & Eight Mile Gap Hike (13.7km)

Total distance: 13696 m
Max elevation: 1456 m
Min elevation: 457 m
Total climbing: 1446 m
Total descent: -804 m

Gallery

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Alpine National Park.

From Mansfield, continue along the Mount Buller Road for 19.5km to Merijig, then a further 2km to the Howqua Track turnoff on the right. Follow the unsealed Howqua Track for 16.5km to Sheepyard Flat then proceed a few hundred metres north along Brocks Road to Davons Flat (also referred to as Dabons Flat on some maps).

Camping is available at Sheepyard Flat and many other campsites along Brocks Road.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.

Get there with Google Maps

Access conditions

2WD Access
Gravel Road
Public Toilets
Untreated Water
Picnic Table
Campfire Pit
Camping Area

About the region

The Alpine National Park is a national park in the Central Highlands and Alpine regions of Victoria, Australia. The 646,000-hectare national park is located northeast of Melbourne. It is the largest National Park in Victoria, and covers much of the higher areas of the Great Dividing Range in Victoria, including Victoria's highest point, Mount Bogong at 1,986 metres and the associated subalpine woodland and grassland of the Bogong High Plains. The park's north-eastern boundary is along the border with New South Wales, where it abuts the Kosciuszko National Park.

Find a place to stay

Find Accommodation

Wondering where to stay near this hike? Find accommodation close to the trailhead — hotels, cabins and campgrounds nearby. Click the button to view the interactive map.

Closest towns to this walk: Benalla, Bright, Dinner Plain, Falls Creek, Harrietville, Hotham Heights, Mansfield, Mitta Mitta, Mount Beauty, Mount Hotham, Myrtleford, Omeo, Porepunkah, Tawonga South, Wangaratta

Let someone know

Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Alpine National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

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Eagle Peaks & Eight Mile Gap Hike (13.7km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Eagle peaks & eight mile gap hike (13. 7km)

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance