Grade 5

Australian Alps Walking Track - AAWT (655km)

Australian Alps

Victoria

655km

5-8 weeks

Grade 5

One Way

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Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Australian Alps on the 655km Australian Alps Walking Track, beginning in Walhalla, Victoria and ending in Tharwa near Canberra. As one of Australia's most challenging hikes, it's a Grade 5 trail that takes you over the highest peaks in Victoria, New South Wales, and ACT, including Mount Kosciuszko and Bimberi Peak. This one-way track traverses high plains, national parks, and requires strategic planning for food and supplies as it doesn't pass through any towns. Highly developed navigation skills are essential, as clear signposting is limited. This hike is an adventure that rewards with spectacular alpine scenery and a sense of accomplishment.

Max elevation: 2175m

Min elevation: 250m

Total Ascent: 30779m

5,917 Total views

Safety advice


Hike overview



Tips


Trail features


Map and GPX file

Australian Alps Walking Track - AAWT (655km)


Access conditions


Getting there


Closest towns to this walk: Bright, Mount Beauty, Myrtleford, Tallangatta, Wangaratta

Getting to the trailhead in Australian Alps.

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About the region


Similar trails nearby


Looking for hikes and trails in Australian Alps or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.

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Track grade


Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.

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

Australian Alps Walking Track - AAWT (655km)


9 Reviews on “Australian Alps Walking Track - AAWT (655km)”

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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

Australian alps walking track - aawt (655km)

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.