Grade 5

Cathedral Range: Southern Circuit Hike (11km)

Cathedral Range State Park

Victoria

11km

4-5 hrs

Grade 5

Circuit

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Trail summary

Quick overview: Explore the rugged beauty of Cathedral Range's Southern Circuit, a challenging 11km hike near Melbourne. This Grade 5 trail is perfect for thrill-seekers, featuring significant rock scrambling and unassisted climbing along the Razorback Track and Wells Cave. Be rewarded with stunning views of the valley and peaks, including Sugarloaf Peak and South Jawbone. Start your adventure at Cooks Mill, and don't forget to take a breather at The Farmyard, a serene spot perfect for a bushwalking picnic.

Safety advice


Hike overview



Tips


Trail features


Map and GPX file

Cathedral Range: Southern Circuit Hike (11km)


Getting there


Closest towns to this walk: Marysville, Buxton, Taggerty, Narbethong, Eildon

How to get to Cathedral Range State Park
Directions on Google Maps

Access conditions


About the region


Similar trails nearby


Looking for hikes and trails in Cathedral Range State Park or nearby? Try these similar graded walks.

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Grade 5

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

Cathedral Range: Southern Circuit Hike (11km)


2 Reviews on “Cathedral Range: Southern Circuit Hike (11km)”

Overall rating
  • Avatar of darren edwards Darren Edwards Trail Author

    This is a fantastic hike and is possibly one of the most popular in the Cathedrals. The route via Wells cave is certainly challenging and is not recommended if you are fearful of heights, exposure and near vertical rock scrambling. There’s an alternate route via the canyon that is far less exposed.

  • Relatively easy to follow, went off the track once and just climbed our way back on. Only two sections of the hike are very challenging with tight squeezes. Wouldn’t recommend if you have a fear of heights or claustrophobia if attempting wells cave trail. Best hike I’ve done and first grade 5 hike.

    1. Avatar of darren edwards Darren Edwards Trail Author

      Really glad you enjoyed it. It is a great adventure

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Suggest an edit


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

Cathedral range: southern circuit hike (11km)

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.