There is no vehicle access to the end of this hike at Elliot Ridge Campsite, a hike-in campsite along the Great Ocean Walk. This description is intended for those completing multiple sections of the Great Ocean Walk.
The Great Ocean Walk stretches from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, but you can hike specific stages. This hike details the first two stages, which take you from Apollo Bay to Elliot Ridge.
The hike commences at the Apollo Bay Visitor Information Centre and follows a track through town. You can also walk along the beach until you reach the river. From there, you'll be on a gravel track next to the road or the beach again. Keep an eye out for fur seals near Marengo.
The second section starts at Marengo Caravan Park. Here, you can choose between walking on the rocks or taking the inland trail through the park and along the beach. After the foreshore, the terrain gets more rural with some ups and downs over hills. You'll even encounter a fence with a ladder to climb over. After Three Creeks Beach, you'll enter forests and eventually reach a fork in the trail. Head left for Shelly Beach, or right for the car park. From the car park, you can walk down to the Elliot River mouth and then climb up to the Elliot Ridge campsite.
Elliot Ridge Hike-in Campsite
Elliot Ridge is one of the picturesque camping areas on the Great Ocean Walk. It is only accessible by walking. There are a couple of small waterfalls and the river itself where it meets the ocean nearby. There are 8 campsites, tank water, a drop toilet and a communal shelter.
Total distance: 9924 m
Max elevation: 146 m
Min elevation: 1 m
Total climbing: 418 m
Total descent: -274 m
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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.
Apollo Bay, the start of the Great Ocean Walk, is three hours’ drive from Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road. If you are completing the entire Great Ocean Walk and only have one vehicle it’s recommended that you park at the Twelve Apostles Carpark and get shuttled back to Apollo Bay to start your walk. If you don’t have a vehicle, you can go with a Licensed Tour Operator or use one of the shuttle services.
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.
Looking for hikes and trails in Great Otway National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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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.
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.
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.
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
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.
3 Reviews on “Apollo Bay to Elliot Ridge Hike (10km)”
A scenic 10km hike, perfect for a day on the trail. The start through Apollo Bay was easy, with the option of a beach walk which was nice. After Marengo, the trail offered a choice between the rocks and an inland track – I went with the rocks for the ocean views. The final section through the forests was a great way to end the day. Reaching Elliot Ridge campsite felt rewarding. Overall, this was a lovely grade 3 trail – a good mix of coastal walking and forest immersion. Great way to kick off the Great Ocean Walk!