Cathedral Range Ridgeline Circuit is a 18.2km, grade 5 hike located in the Cathedral Range State Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 7 hrs to complete.
Warning
Only attempt the gain Sugarloaf Peak if you have a head for heights and don't mind exposed ledges and rock scrambling. There have been many rescues in this area.
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.
Cooks Mill Camping Area
Cooks Mill Camping Area sits on the site of an old sawmill that operated in the 1940s to 1950s. Explore the nearby Heritage Site or meander through Manna Gum forest along the Friends Nature Trail or Little River Walk where you might spot a koala snoozing above.
Fit hikers can try one of the harder walks up to the peaks of the North or South Jawbone for unforgettable views over the Cathedral Range. There is also great rock climbing at nearby North Jawbone, South Jawbone and Sugarloaf Peak.
Individual campsites cannot be reserved, please select your campsite within the campground on arrival. Sites are not marked but are large enough for tents, with a limited area suitable for camper trailers, campervans and caravans.
Advanced bookings and payment are required year-round. Campground features include non-flush toilets, picnic tables, communal fireplaces and a shelter.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 903 m
Min elevation: 326 m
Total climbing: 1011 m
Total descent: -1010 m
Trail features
- Rough Trail
- Exposed Ledges
- Rock Scrambling
- Steep Terrain
- Scenic Viewpoints
- Overnight Campsites
Tips
Only attempt the gain Sugarloaf Peak or descent via the actual rocky ridge if you have a head for heights and don't mind exposed ledges and rock scrambling. Poles may be useful in sections. Many of the trails are steep and rocky and can become slippery following rain or misty weather. Orange trail markers have been provided in places. Generally rugged terrain will result in slower progress times. Allow 1.5-2km per hour in places.
Trail location
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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
The jagged ridges of the Cathedral Range offer spectacular views and some of the best hiking in the state. Take a gentle walk along the Friends Nature Trail or prepare to tackle the rugged and challenging Razorback Trail or circuit routes. Either way you won't forget the awesome views. 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. Rock climbing, fishing and camping are other popular activities that can be enjoyed in this park. Advance bookings and payment for camping are required year round.
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
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Gear to consider
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 (18.2km)”
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…