The Great Ocean Walk stages 6 and 7 encompass a beautiful hike from Aire River to Johanna Beach.
The Aire River to Johanna Beach hike is an impressively satisfying hike through diverse terrain to beautiful Johanna Beach. Pass through heathland with spring wildflowers and experience awesome sea views.
From Aire River the track heads inland for a while, climbing up and around the next headland through spinifex forests, and then continues along the coastal path with sweeping views of the rugged coastline. Expect some ups and downs with a little climbing before you get to Castle Cove. Located on a spectacular bend of the Great Ocean Road at Glenaire, Castle Cove is a beautiful beach surrounded by towering cliffs which have high archaeological significance, as dinosaur fossils have been found here.
From Castle Cove the track winds its way along the cliff tops, through heath-lands and forests, occasionally emerging to give breathtaking and extensive views along the coast. The forest here is an interesting mixture of manna gums, spring wildflowers and magnificent expanses of grass trees. Make sure you keep an eye out above for Peregrine Falcons.
Eventually you will emerge onto the broad expanse of Johanna Beach. This beautiful beach is one of the best in Australia with superb views and enormous crashing surf.
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Be mindful of the tides and weather along Johanna beach and the Johanna River as this can be a dangerious section if the conditions are against you.
Total distance: 12585 m
Max elevation: 125 m
Min elevation: 2 m
Total climbing: 441 m
Total descent: -426 m
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From Melbourne take the Princes Highway to Geelong, then continue through to Colac. Turn south along the C155 through the scenic Otway Ranges to Lavers Hill. Turn left onto the Great Ocean Road. You will need to leave a car at Johanna Beach, the end of the hike.
The start point is located at Aire River West. Access is via Horden Vale Road, Horden Vale. This road is narrow in sections and crosses Aire River on a single lane timber bridge. The road and bridge are not suitable for large buses.
The day visitor area is located on the west side of Aire River adjacent to the campground. There is also a day visitor area on the east side of the river but there are no accessible toilets on this side.
If you have any photos from this hike and are happy to share them, please upload your .jpg files here.
Please note: Uploading photos does not transfer ownership of copyright away from you. If requested, you will be credited for any photos you provide and can ask they be deleted at any time.
The Great Otway National Park stretches from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and up through the Otways hinterland. Discover windswept coastlines and breathtaking waterfalls in tall mountain forests, walk the iconic Great Ocean Walk, immerse yourself in the Otway Lightstation's history, or surf some of the best breaks in Australia. Enjoy the great outdoors and explore the wonders of the Great Otway National Park.
The Great Otway National Park is in southern Victoria, Australia. It covers rugged coastland, beaches and the mountains of the Otway Ranges. Waterfalls dot the park, including the 3 cascades of Triplet Falls. Boardwalks lead through temperate rainforest at Maits Rest. The 1848 Cape Otway Lightstation perches on cliffs overlooking Bass Strait. Great Ocean Walk leads through the park to the Twelve Apostles rock formations.
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Great Otway National Park
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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3 Reviews on “Aire River to Johanna Beach Hike (13km)”
An impressive walk away from the more frequently visited tourist spots on the Great Ocean Rd.
Small correction to closest town; Horden Vale is a rural farming district. Closest town (food and fuel) would probably be Lavers Hill.
Recently hiked from The Gables Lookout carpark (near Moonlight Head) to Ryans Den camping ground and then back again. Said to be the hardest section of the GOR Walk. Magnificent scenery, well worth a visit if looking for a challenging day hike.