The Aberfeldy River hike is an adventurous off-trail hike that commences at Barnes Lookout on the Walhalla Road, approximately 9km north of Walhalla. From Barnes Lookout head directly west to the top of a nearby knoll. Locate a broad spur to the south west and follow this long it length to the Aberfeldy River. Note that the spur narrows as you approach the river. On reaching the river, turn north and follow the river bank (or wade along the river) upstream.
After approximately 2km you will arrive at a tunnel that is a seldom visited site in this region. Continue upstream along the river for a further 2km, keeping to the right bank where possible, until reaching an old fire break on a south facing spur. Follow this spur to the top of a broad knoll before turning south west along the ridge line and another spur back to Barnes Lookout. Heading directly east from this knoll will return you to the trail head.
This is an adventurous off-trail hike. Expect to get wet along the river unless you are able to remain on the banks for the duration. Hiking poles, a towel and a change of clothing will be an advantage.
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Total distance: 7266 m
Max elevation: 628 m
Min elevation: 298 m
Total climbing: 484 m
Total descent: -486 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Baw Baw National Park.
From Melbourne, take the Monash and Princes freeways to the town of Moe, 130 km East of Melbourne. Take the Moe exit from the Princes Freeway and follow the signs to Erica/Rawson/Walhalla. From Walhalla drive north along the Walhalla Road for approximately 9km until you reach Barnes Lookout to start the walk, 21km from Rawson.
Closest towns to this walk: Drouin, Erica, Mount Baw Baw, Neerim South, Noojee, Rawson, Tanjil Bren, Tanjil South, Thorpdale, Tyers, Walhalla, Warragul, Willow Grove, Yarragon
About the region
The Baw Baw National Park is a national park located on the boundaries between the Central Highlands and Gippsland regions of Victoria, Australia. The 13,530-hectare national park is situated approximately 120 kilometres east of Melbourne and 50 kilometres north of the Latrobe Valley.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Baw Baw National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
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.
Let someone know
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Suggest an edit
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.