Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the moderate Grade 3 Bugle Ridge Lake Brockie Loop, an 11.5km circuit in Hattah-Kulkyne National Park, Australia. Starting from the Visitor Centre carpark, this trail offers a unique mix of River Red Gum flood plains and Mallee dunes, highlighting the dramatic shifts in vegetation along the lakeside. Keep a lookout for native wildlife such as kangaroos, emus, and a variety of birds, including majestic eagles and kites. This scenic hike is a must for all nature-loving bushwalkers.

Length:

11.5km

Duration:

3 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Circuit

Max elevation: 59m

Min elevation: 44m

Total Ascent: 187m

Start: Visitor Centre carpark

End: Visitor Centre carpark

Hattah-Kulkyne National Park

Victoria

Nearby town: Ouyen

From state capital: 483km

Latitude: -34.75539549

Longitude: 142.34211266040805

Overview

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Region

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Hike overview

Starting at the Hattah-Kulkyne National Park Visitor Centre carpark, the Bugle Ridge Lake Brockie Loop follows the northern edge of Lake Hattah and Lake Arawak before circling south around Lake Brockie passing through River Red Gum flood plains and Mallee dunes. The walk showcases the dramatic changes in vegetation, as you get closer and further away from water. Keep an eye also for the abundant wildlife. Kangaroos and emus can frequently be spotted, as well as a variety of birds, including wedge-tailed eagles, whitebellied sea eagles and whistling kites.

Camping

There are two designated campgrounds in the park with basic facilities, including non-flush toilets, fireplaces and picnic tables. They are at Lake Hattah and further north at Lake Mournpall. Advance bookings and payment are required for these sights via the Parks Victoria website. Other river camping areas without facilities are available at Ki Bend, Firemans Bend and Jinkers Bend, all along the Murray at the eastern edge of the park. No booking or fees are required, although these areas are best accessed with a 4WD.

Trail features

Gallery

Bugle Ridge Lake Brockie Loop Hike (11.5km)

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Walk map and GPX file

Bugle Ridge Lake Brockie Loop Hike (11.5km)

Total distance: 11205 m
Max elevation: 59 m
Min elevation: 44 m
Total climbing: 187 m
Total descent: -186 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Hattah-Kulkyne National Park.

Hattah-Kulkyne National Park is half way between Ouyen and Mildura, off the Calder Highway. It’s a hefty 5.5 hours’ drive from Melbourne, but only 45 minutes due south of Mildura. Most visitors enter via the Hattah Entrance Road and head directly for the Lake Hattah Campground. The park extends north and east, covering 48,000 hectares, before hitting the Murray River off HattahRobinvale Road not far from the small village of Liparoo. Many of the park’s best spots are accessible in a 2WD car, but some tracks are 4WD only. Be especially careful if there’s been recent rain.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Hattah, Irymple, Kulkyne, Merbein, Mildura, Nangiloc, Ouyen, Red Cliffs

About the region

Hattah-Kulkyne National Park lies in typical mallee country with extensive low scrub and open native pine woodland. Superbly adapted birds, animals and vegetation thrive in the poor, sandy soils and searing summers. The freshwater Hattah Lakes is seasonally filled by creeks connected to the Murray, providing food and shelter for waterbirds and fish. These lakes can remain full for up to ten years without flooding, but flooding generally occurs once every two years. Camping, walking, bike riding and canoeing are popular here and in the adjoining Murray-Kulkyne Park.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Hattah-Kulkyne National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

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

Bugle Ridge Lake Brockie Loop Hike (11.5km)

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Acknowledgement of Country

Bugle ridge lake brockie loop hike (11. 5km)

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance