NOTE: Some sections of the track are closed due to damage from the January 2020 fires. The latest closure map is located here.
Follow the expedition of Hume and Hovell...
The Hume and Hovell Track is an epic trail in the south east of NSW that traverses rugged and beautiful countryside following a mix of public roads, fire trails, purpose built single track and over 100 footbridges.
The track stretches 426km and passes through the towns of Yass, Wee Jasper and Albury and nearby the towns of Tumut, Talbingo and Tumbarumba offering a variety of topographies, vegetation types and land uses, as well as numerous points of historic interest. Along the way, there are 17 campsites, picnic facilities, numerous boardwalks and three major bridges over significant rivers.
The track receives regular maintenance but it is likely that users will find trees and branches over the track in the heavily wooded areas, particularly after the winter season. As well, over time, and with funds being available, sections of the track are being rerouted to take them off public roads and improvements are being carried out, e.g. new boardwalks and bridges installed and shelter sheds being erected at bush campsites. Parklands Albury Wodonga established a section of track around Albury and the final link stretching north through farmland to the established track coming out of the Woomargama National Park at Tunnel road was opened in 1999 in time for the 175th anniversary celebrations.
Where possible existing fire trails, forestry service roads and other four wheel drive tracks were incorporated into the walking track. A few sections of public road had to be used and the balance, about half the track, is on constructed foot tracks. The track crosses the Goobarragandra and Tumut Rivers thanks to two pedestrian bridges over the Goobarragandra River and a suspension bridge over the Tumut River.
Minor streams required over 100 bridges and many sections prone to becoming wet and boggy have been spanned with boardwalks. A track logo, in the form of two, small stylised human figures, (see inset), representing Hume and Hovell, is displayed along the full length of the track to assist with track finding. At all trackheads and other places of access, signboards showing places, directions and distances have been erected. Where the track joins or crosses other tracks or roadways, directional bollards have been installed. If the track passes through areas of historical interest and significance, descriptive plaques have been erected.
For more information on this amazing track, visit the Hume and Hovell Track website
The Hume and Hovell Track traverses a variety of different terrain, grades, track types land tenures. The effective "difficulty" of each section varies frequently, so it's hard to summarise the difficulties over one single section. However, in broad terms, the track can be classified into three major levels of "difficulty", ranging from 2-4, based largely on Australian Standard 2156.1 - Walking Tracks - Classification and Signage.
Source and GPX file:Â Hume and Hovell Track
- NOTE: Google's depiction of the track alignment is incorrect in many places.
Total distance: 427337 m
Max elevation: 1257 m
Min elevation: 153 m
Total climbing: 11411 m
Total descent: -11771 m
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Closest towns to this walk: Culcairn, Henty, Holbrook, Jindera, Woomargama
Getting to the trailhead in Woomargama National Park.
Woomargama National Park, a vast expanse of forest and woodland west of the Great Dividing Range, offers a captivating escape into nature. Situated approximately 450 kilometres south-west of Sydney, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and adventure.
Explore a diverse range of landscapes, from towering trees to open plains, as you embark on walks, bushwalks, or hikes through the park's many trails. Encounter a rich array of wildlife, including endangered bird species, kangaroos, echidnas, and elusive creatures like the brown toadlet and superb parrot.
Immerse yourself in the park's history by following the footsteps of explorers Hume and Hovell along the walking track that traverses the region. Discover remnants of the past, such as old mining sites, as you journey through this captivating landscape.
Camp under the starry sky at one of the park's tranquil campgrounds, providing a perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. Whether you're seeking solitude, adventure, or a deeper connection with nature, Woomargama National Park offers an unforgettable experience.
Discover the park's hidden gems and plan your perfect adventure with Trail Hiking Australia, your guide to the best walks, hikes, and runs in the region.
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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.
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
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.
7 Reviews on “Hume & Hovell Track (426km)”
For those seeking a truly challenging long-distance experience, this trail offers a rigorous test of endurance. While the full trek is a substantial commitment, hikers also have the flexibility to explore the trail in sections, accommodating individual timeframes and preferences.