Howitt & the High Country Hike (22km)

Tucked deep within Victoria’s Alpine National Park, the Howitt and the High Country hike is a rugged and rewarding 22-kilometre circuit that typically takes two days to complete. It leads you into some of the state’s most dramatic high country, where open ridgelines, jagged peaks, and sprawling alpine plains stretch as far as the eye can see. This route showcases a particularly scenic stretch of the Australian Alps Walking Track, passing over Mount Magdala and Mount Howitt, two prominent summits that offer expansive views over the remote Victorian Alps.

The trail begins with a stern test: Helicopter Spur. Known for its unrelenting gradient and rough terrain, this route climbs steeply through rocky, exposed country before reaching the treeline and eventually easing onto the rolling ridges above. It’s a route that demands both fitness and a steady head for heights. Some sections require hands-on rock scrambling, and while most experienced walkers will manage without ropes, those less confident on steep, exposed ground might find them helpful for reassurance. Once you’ve cleared the spur, the rest of the trail is more forgiving, with well-worn tracks weaving through alpine meadows and snow gum woodlands, connecting one ridgeline to the next.

This hike is best suited to experienced bushwalkers who are comfortable navigating remote areas with minimal signage. The route isn’t overly technical beyond Helicopter Spur, but a good topographic map, compass or GPS, and the skills to use them are essential. Weather in the high country can change quickly and without warning, so reliable gear, warm layers, and enough food and water for the duration of the trip are all musts. It’s not a walk to take lightly, but for those prepared to handle the terrain and conditions, it’s an unforgettable journey through one of Victoria’s most beautiful alpine landscapes.

For seasoned hikers seeking solitude, big views, and the satisfying ache that comes with a long climb and a heavy pack, the Howitt and the High Country hike offers a deep connection to place. It’s not just about the distance or elevation, but the raw and varied beauty of a landscape shaped by wind, weather, and time.