Huon Hill - Kiewa River is an 11km, grade 3 circuit hike located in Killara, near Wodonga, Victoria. The hike should take around 3 hrs to complete.
Hike summary
This is a pleasant hike with terrific views much of the way. From the riverside rest stop just off the Murray Valley Hwy follow the broad track along the river until Stringybark Track, where you turn left towards Huon Hill. The track crosses a road and you pick up the path just thru the cattle grid and continue upwards, with views developing the whole way up.
You'll emerge to a carpark with BBQ and toilet facilities. There is a short track to the right that takes you to the top, with viewing platforms that provide superb views up the length of the Kiewa Valley, Mts Bogong & Feathertop in the distance, Wodonga, Lake Hume and the Murray River.
From the top descend to the dirt road. Near the bend on the road Bundy track drops off the road. There is no defined track, but you should soon see a fence swing gate below. After that the trail veers left, again poorly defined but you won't get lost in this open country. You'll have a fire trail clearly in view and will soon pick it up.
The trail follows the dirt road, climbing a little again before delivering fresh views of the Murray River from a closer approach. The track then branches right and across a grassy slope. Again ill defined but you're heading for the next fire trail that is easily found. Once on that road follow it down a way until you approach the fence. To the right will be another swing gate, which you take.
The trail follows a usually dry gully set in woods. You might choose to follow down the gully, but ultimately you need to be on the left hand side when you reach the fence in order to cross using the swing gate. Back in the open again you cross the road and reach the river.
Turn right and follow the track back to the start point. There are enormous river gums several bird hides as well as a couple of swimming holes.
For the effort required (moderate) it rewards you more than many hikes with superb views, not just from the top but on the way up and down. There is abundant bird life along the river walk, and kangaroos on the way down the hill.
The 2nd part of the hike (descending from the top) is not clearly defined. Depending on the season there may be knee high grass. However you always have good sight of where you're heading, so even if you go off the GPX recording just make your own way down. There are occasional round wooden markers with painted yellow tops.
If you are concerned about finding the track on the way down you might simply do the climb then retrace your steps down. This part of the hike is clearly defined. The views are well worth it, even if just turning back at that point.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 438 m
Min elevation: 161 m
Total climbing: 388 m
Total descent: -363 m
Gear you might need
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Location
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Getting there
The Entrance to Kiewa River Parklands is the Killara picnic area on the Kiewa River just off the Murray Valley Hwy on the left and right (as you are heading out of Wodonga) just before the road crosses the Kiewa River.
About the region
The Lower Kiewa has been identified in recent Victorian Government publications as of statewide significance, due to it's floristic diversity. As an unmanaged river, Kiewa River Parklands provides a unique Australia "experience" of the naturally meandering river and is one of the top three rivers in Victoria for recreational fishing. If its bird watching you are after, then the Kiewa River Parklands is the perfect place offering a number of bird hides along the Kiewa River walking track. Pack a picnic and take a relaxing stroll among the River red gums.
Gallery
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Acknowledgement of Country
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.