Grade 3

Aire River to Johanna Beach Hike (13km)

Great Otway National Park

Victoria

13km

5 hrs

Grade 3

One Way

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Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore Victoria's stunning coastline on The Great Ocean Walk, a 13km hiking trail stretching from Aire River to Johanna Beach. This Grade 3 Moderate hike offers diverse terrain, from spinifex forests to heathlands blooming with spring wildflowers, and breathtaking sea views. Traverse cliff tops, catch sight of Peregrine Falcons, and discover Castle Cove's archaeological significance, before ending your journey on the magnificent Johanna Beach. A must for all bushwalkers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Max elevation: 125m

Min elevation: 2m

Total Ascent: 441m

Hike overview


Tips


Walk map and GPX file

Aire River to Johanna Beach Hike (13km)


Content use


Every trail on this site has been personally mapped and refined to support Australia’s hiking community. While some info comes from land managers, each listing reflects significant personal work. Please don’t upload GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or any other platform. This is a free community initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.

Getting there


Closest towns to this walk: Apollo Bay, Beech Forest, Colac, Forrest, Lavers Hill, Lorne, Skenes Creek, Wye River

Getting to the trailhead in Great Otway National Park.

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About the region


Similar trails nearby


Looking for hikes and trails in Great Otway National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

Grade 3
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Grade 3
Grade 3

Track grade


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.

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

Reviews

Aire River to Johanna Beach Hike (13km)


8 Reviews on “Aire River to Johanna Beach Hike (13km)”

Overall rating
  • 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.

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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.

Acknowledgement of Country

Aire river to johanna beach hike (13km)

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.