Grade 5

Catherine River, Speculation & Mount Cobbler Hike (42km)

Alpine National Park

Victoria

42km

4 days

Grade 5

Circuit

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Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Embark on a 42km circuit over four days through Victoria's Alpine National Park, starting and ending at Speculation and King Basin Roads. This Grade 5, difficult trail near Mansfield, 278.5km from Melbourne, offers bushwalkers the chance to explore the remote Viking Razor Wilderness Zone with its towering peaks, high-level plateaus, and deep valleys. Highlights include a hidden section of the Catherine River with a secluded campsite and swimming hole. Remember, this trail requires good fitness, navigation skills, and preparation for alpine conditions.

Max elevation: 1652m

Min elevation: 592m

Total Ascent: 2711m

Important info


Hike overview



Content use


Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.

Walk map and GPX file

Catherine River, Speculation & Mount Cobbler Hike (42km)


Getting there


Getting to the trailhead: Alpine National Park.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Benalla, Bright, Dinner Plain, Falls Creek, Harrietville, Hotham Heights, Mansfield, Mitta Mitta, Mount Beauty, Mount Hotham, Myrtleford, Omeo, Porepunkah, Tawonga South, Wangaratta

About the region


Similar walks nearby


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

Grade 5
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Grade 5
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

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

Catherine river, speculation & mount cobbler hike (42km)

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.

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