The Chick Hill Circuit Walk offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for seasoned hikers in Warby-Ovens National Park, Victoria. This 8km grade 4 loop trail is conveniently located near Wangaratta and Glenrowan, starting at the corner of Wirrinya Avenue and Taffe Road in Hamilton Park.
The initial leg of the walk is a steep ascent via the Chick Hill Track, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views across the Ovens Valley towards Mount Buffalo and Mount Bogong. The trail then continues along the Ridge Track before turning onto Nason Track, a descent of 250 metres.
The route then follows Taminick Gap Road downhill for 1 kilometre before turning south onto Taffe Lane. This section is a 4WD track offering scenic views of the Ovens Valley and beyond. After roughly 3 kilometres, you'll arrive back at the Hamilton Park BBQ area, completing the loop.
It's important to note that there's no access to fresh water along the Chick Hill Walk. Walking poles are highly recommended for the steep and sometimes loose gravel descents. Due to the trail's difficulty and limited signage, a moderate level of fitness and proper planning are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
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Total distance: 7579 m
Max elevation: 451 m
Min elevation: 219 m
Total climbing: 276 m
Total descent: -275 m
Getting to the trailhead: Warby-Ovens National Park.
Reaching the Chick Hill Track trailhead is relatively simple. By car, start your journey from Wangaratta and head towards Glenrowan. Once in Glenrowan, locate Hamilton Park – known for its BBQ facilities. Look for Wirrinya Avenue within the park and follow it until you reach its intersection with Taaffe Road. This corner marks the official trailhead for the Chick Hill Walk, where your challenging yet rewarding climb begins.
Closest towns to this walk: Benalla, Cheshunt, Chiltern, Everton, Glenrowan, Greta, Milawa, Moyhu, Myrrhee, Oxley, Peechelba, Rutherglen, Tarrawingee, Wangaratta, Whitfield, Yarrawonga
The Warby-Ovens National Park, situated near Wangaratta in Victoria, holds a deep significance for the Yorta Yorta Peoples, the traditional owners of this land. This diverse park offers a haven for nature enthusiasts. Whether you seek breathtaking views, invigorating walks and bike rides, peaceful canoeing on the Ovens River, or simply a chance to unwind at a campsite amidst native wildlife, Warby-Ovens National Park caters to all.
The park encompasses three distinct ecosystems. The heritage-listed lower Ovens River boasts majestic River Red Gum forests, one of the most intact floodplain ecosystems in northern Victoria thanks to the unregulated nature of the river. The Killawarra Forest features a box-ironbark woodland, particularly important for threatened birdlife like the Swift Parrot, Hooded Robin, and Speckled Warbler. The Warby Range offers a scenic blend of grassy woodlands and granite outcrops, coming alive with wildflowers in spring and providing access to spectacular lookouts.
A mere 10 kilometres from Wangaratta, the park is perfect for a day trip. Enjoy walks, picnics, birdwatching, cycling, or a scenic drive. Take in the exceptional views, especially during winter when the distant peaks are dusted with snow, from Ryan's Lookout and Kwat Kwat Lookout.
Explore the walking tracks that weave through the Warby Range and Killawarra Forest, immersing yourself in the park's diverse birdlife and spring wildflowers. Alternatively, relax by the river with a picnic or fire.
For a longer stay, pitch your tent and spend a few days camping, hiking, or birdwatching. The Ovens River is a haven for canoeing, offering calm waters suitable for paddlers of all experience levels.
Keep an eye out for Black Wallabies or Eastern Grey Kangaroos as you navigate the tracks. Wildlife spotting is generally best at dawn and dusk. With a keen eye, you might even catch a glimpse of a vibrant Turquoise Parrot, a Koala, or a Lace Monitor.
Looking for more walks in or near Warby-Ovens National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
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.
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.
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
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