Embark on an Epic Alpine Adventure: The Catherine River, Speculation, and Mount Cobbler Circuit
Embark on a captivating four-day hiking journey through the heart of the Victorian Alps, traversing the remote Viking Razor Wilderness Zone. This challenging yet rewarding circuit will take you through breathtaking landscapes, from towering peaks and high-level plateaus to deep, verdant valleys. Discover a hidden section of the Catherine River, complete with a secluded campsite and refreshing swimming hole. Prepare for an adventure that demands fitness, experience, exceptional navigation skills, and a well-equipped backpack to withstand alpine conditions.
Day 1: Speculation Road to Mount Speculation (10 km)
Your adventure begins at the junction of Speculation and King Basin Roads. Cross the bridge and locate the narrow foot trail on the river's southern bank. The trail winds its way southward, then turns southeast, and finally east as it ascends steeply to King Spur. Follow the cliff lines near the ridge's summit until reaching Mount Koonika. From the peak, continue along the southeast ridge, descending to the 4WD track where you'll camp at Mount Speculation.
Day 2: Mount Speculation to Catherine River Campsite (10 km)
Venture into the remote wilderness of the Viking Razor Wilderness Zone, a region rarely explored by hikers. Exceptional navigation skills are essential as you forge your own path. Follow Speculation Road northward from Mount Speculation until reaching a hairpin turn. Continue off-trail along a narrow ridge, heading north. Descend steadily until reaching the Catherine River below. Once at the river, turn right and follow it northward for about 500 meters. Keep an eye out for a suitable campsite amidst the river flats.
Day 3: Catherine River Campsite to Lake Cobbler (10 km)
After breaking camp, embark on a challenging ascent, heading northwest out of the river valley (300 meters). Continue westward along a ridge (another 150 meters) until reaching the plateau's edge. Trek through snow gum forests for approximately 2.5 kilometres to cross the plateau and reach the Lake Cobbler Track. Turn right (east) and follow the track down to Lake Cobbler. Replenish your water supply from the lake and continue westward along the Mount Cobbler Walking Track for about 3 kilometres until you find a flat and open campsite.
Day 4: Lake Cobbler Campsite to Muesli Spur Trailhead (10 km)
From your campsite, continue westward until you reach a signposted trail junction. Turn north (right) for a short, moderate, and steep 1.5 kilometre climb to the summit of Mount Cobbler. Reward yourself with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Typo to the northeast, Mount Koonika and Mount Speculation to the southeast, and Mount Stirling to the southwest.
Descend from the summit and follow the trail back to the junction. Continue southward for approximately 5.5 kilometres until reaching the junction of Little Cobbler Road and the Cobbler Lake Track. Follow Little Cobbler Road southward. After about 700 meters, you'll reach the Speculation Road junction. Continue past Speculation Road and keep heading south for another 450 meters until you reach Muesli Spur Track on your right.
Embark on a final descent along the steep and rugged Muesli Spur to return to the trailhead and your vehicle. Congratulations on completing this epic alpine adventure!
