Trail Fast Facts
Cathedral Range Ridgeline Circuit is a 18km, grade 5 hike in the Cathedral Range State Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 7 hrs to complete.
Warning
The Cathedral Range is a special place that has a lot to offer hikers, but it should not be underestimated. The terrain is dominated by rocky ridges and outcrops, requiring navigation of steep climbs, uneven surfaces, and potentially slippery sections. Weather conditions can shift rapidly, so trekkers must be prepared for all possibilities.
Hike Overview
The Cathedral Range is a spectacular seven kilometre ridge of sharply upturned sedimentary rock. A variety of walking tracks ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging offer the opportunity to explore the park's main features and climb the peaks to enjoy views of the forests and farmland in the valley below.
The Cathedral Range Ridgeline Circuit explores the entire length of the range taking in Wells Cave (option), Sugarloaf Peak, The Farmyard, Cathedral, Little Cathedral and Neds Gully. Commencing at Cooks Mill make your way in a southerly direction along the well formed Tweed Spur Road. After about a kilometre of easy walking you will reach the recently opened (2012) Messmate Track to your right.
The Messmate Track winds it way across several wooded gullies connecting the Sugarloaf Saddle visitor area with Cooks Mill Heritage Site and camping area. It is quite a pleasant section of the hike and along its 3km length you will experience a gradual ascent until you reach Sugarloaf Saddle.
From the car park you have two options in order to gain Sugarloaf Peak. It is important to note that this section of the hike is Grade 5, meaning it is for experienced hikers only. You can continue along the main track through attractive open forest to the start of a rocky ridge called the Canyon. The trail climbs the very crest of this ridge to Sugarloaf Peak. The alternative is to take the lesser traveled Wells Cave track. Both routes are recommended for experienced hikers only as they are steep in places, requires a lot of rock scrambling and unassisted climbing and traverses some exposed ledges en-route. While this track can be challenging in places you will be rewarded with a real sense of adventure and in my opinion is well worth the effort provided you have a head for heights.
The route via Wells Cave is an ascent route only. NO NOT attempt to descend via Wells Cave.
On reaching Sugarloaf Peak you will be rewarded with amazing 360 degree views of the valley and ranges below.
From Sugarloaf Peak, the trail continues north across the buttresses, gradually ascending along the rocky and narrow 'Razorback'. There is a lot of rock hoping, scrambling and abrupt drops along the way. The going is fairly straight forward and the trail easy to follow (just stick to the ridge). Make sure you take the time to stop and appreciate the views as they truly are spectacular. After approximately 2.5km the trail becomes easier and the rocky ridge is replaced by open woodland. Soon after this a junction is reached as you arrive at the open grassy flat called The Farmyard. This is a great spot to stop for lunch or for an overnight camp. It is quite sheltered and protected.
From the Farmyard there is 15 minute side trail which takes you to South Jawbone Peak and another opportunity to take in the rewarding views. Follow the trail a short distance east until you reach Jawbone Creek track on your left. This track will take you past the North Jawbone Peak trail and follows the ridge line all the way to The Cathedral Summit. Continue to follow the ridge line onto Cathedral North then Little Cathedral which marks the end of the range.
From the summit of Cathedral Range retrace your steps until you reach a sign post identifying the Little Cathedral Track. Follow this track down into Neds Gully and towards the Neds Gully camping area. Before reaching the camping area you will find Little River track on your right. From this point is is approximately one hours walk through forest back to Cooks Mill and the start of your hike.
Camping in the Cathedral Range State Park
Cathedral Range State Park offers several camping options to suit different preferences.
Cooks Mill campground provides a scenic riverside location with shade and a variety of sites suitable for tents, campervans, and a limited number of caravans. Amenities include pit toilets, fireplaces, picnic tables, and shelters.
For a more secluded experience, Neds Gully campground is accessible by a short walk across a swing bridge. This campground is limited to tents only and offers basic amenities like pit toilets and fireplaces.
The Farmyard, designed for experienced hikers, provides a remote overnight camping option directly on the range. This location is accessible only on foot and has no facilities. Campers must bring their own drinking water, gas stove for cooking, and firewood (purchased from nearby towns as collecting firewood within the park is prohibited).
Regardless of your chosen campsite, remember to book online in advance for Neds Gully and Cooks Mill (bookings can be made through parks.vic.gov.au or by calling 13 1963). Specific campsites cannot be reserved, so selection happens upon arrival. Additionally, bring your own cooking plates and drinking water for all locations. Campfires are only permitted in designated fireplaces using purchased firewood, not collected from the park.
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.
Tips
- The Cathedral Range should not be underestimated.
- The terrain is dominated by rocky ridges and outcrops, requiring navigation of steep climbs, uneven surfaces, and potentially slippery sections.
- Weather conditions can shift rapidly, so walkers must be prepared for all possibilities.
- Be aware that many trails are steep and rocky, and can become slippery after rain or in misty weather.
- Only attempt to summit Sugarloaf Peak if you are comfortable with heights and exposed sections requiring scrambling.
- Follow the orange trail markers provided in designated areas.
- Plan for slower progress due to the rugged terrain. Expect to cover 1.5-2km per hour in some sections.
- Hiking poles are highly recommended for certain sections of the trails.
- Let someone know where you are hiking and when you expect to return.
Trail features
- Rough Trail
- Exposed Ledges
- Rock Scrambling
- Steep Terrain
- Scenic Viewpoints
- Overnight Campsites
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 903 m
Min elevation: 326 m
Total climbing: 1011 m
Total descent: -1010 m
Trail Location (trailhead)
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Getting there
Cathedral Range State Park is 2 hrs 15 min from the Melbourne CBD. From Melbourne follow the Maroondah Highway to Buxton. Continue past Buxton for 9.5km and turn right into Cathedral Lane to find the park entrance 2.5km on your right. Continue past Neds Gully and Cooks Mill Camping Area is located at the start of Lowerson Track off Little River Road just before it crosses the river.
Access conditions
- 2WD Access
- Speed Bumps
- Accessible Toilet
- Public Toilets
- Picnic Table
- Campfire Pit
- Camping Area
About the region
Cathedral Range State Park boasts a dramatic landscape with jagged ridges offering stunning views and hiking trails. Hikers of all levels can explore the park's amazing and rugged beauty. The Friends Nature Trail provides a gentle introduction for families, while experienced walkers can traverse the challenging Razorback or longer circuit routes. All trails reward hikers with breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and valleys.
Camping allows visitors to experience the park under the starry night sky, sharing the environment with native wildlife like kangaroos and lyrebirds. Cooks Mill campground offers historical charm, while The Farmyard provides a secluded escape accessible only by foot.
Beyond hiking, the park caters to rock climbing enthusiasts. The Boulders offer a perfect training ground for beginners, whereas Sugarloaf Saddle and North Jawbone present a steeper challenge. Sugarloaf Saddle also boasts a stand of Mountain Ash, one of the world's tallest flowering trees, with some specimens reaching an astonishing 90 meters.
The Cathedral Range's rugged beauty demands respect. Hikers should be aware of the prevalent rocky terrain with steep climbs, uneven surfaces, and potential for slippery conditions. Weather changes rapidly, so be prepared for all possibilities.
The park holds significance for the Taungurung Traditional Owners, and their ongoing connection to this land is acknowledged and respected.
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
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.
Let someone know
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.
Gear to consider
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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Acknowledgement of Country
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.
3 Reviews on “Cathedral Range Ridgeline Circuit Hike (18km)”
anything like that in brisbane? new to hiking.
Definitely! As long as you bring tea again please 🙂
Hello, is anyone able to tell me if when/if water is available after you leave Sugarloaf Saddle? Going to do the walk with my 2 kids so need to make sure we have access to water. Thanks!
Did this hike last weekend. Saw a signage put in by ParksVic at the start of the South Trail marking both Canyon track and Wells Cave tracks as Grade 5 tracks
Hi Alison, after leaving the saddle, you will not find any reliable source of water along the ridge-line (other than puddles if it has been raining). You will need to carry all water with you. This is a huge day walk and not one I’d generally recommend for kids due to the length and difficulty (I don’t know your kids age or abilities though).
Do this one again Sarra Mironov?
If this is done as an overnight walk, staying at the Farmyard, I am interested to hear if there is reliable water at the camp, or do you need to carry water for the whole hike?
I’m there Liz, just name the weekend.
Em… Something to think about for our Saturday walks?
Helen Cooper! Our next adventure! I think I have the map somewhere…