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 overview
From the carpark on the Murray Valley carpark head down stream beside the Kiewa River. After a 1km there is a signposted track branching left towards the hill which you take. The rest of the track is a loop returning to this point along the river.
The track (Stringybark) climbs gently before crossing a road, where you resume the path just thru the cattle grid towards the right. There is a steeper section before it becomes more gradual again, skirting round the side of the hill.
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 below you. 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 (when you sight any swing gate head towards them – you’ll be on course!). After that the trail goes down before veering 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. Proceed down the rough 4WD track. When it opens out stay to the right. There is a switch back track down to the bottom, or you can choose to scramble down the grassy slope to the next farm road at the bottom. 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.
At this point you might choose to go left to see the Kiewa meeting the Murray River – it will add c.40mins to the hike. Otherwise 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 as you follow the Kiewa River.
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
Trail 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.
Gallery
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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.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
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Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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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.