Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 278m
Min elevation: 10m
Total Ascent: 726m
Track grade
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.
Explore safely
Planning this hike? Most incidents develop before you even start. Safe outcomes depend on how navigation, hydration, environment, load and judgement work together. Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Hiking Safety Systems Foundations. Then use the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.
Leave a trip plan
Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Planning checklists
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Great Otway National Park.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Accommodation nearby
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Apollo Bay, Beech Forest, Colac, Forrest, Lavers Hill, Lorne, Skenes Creek, Wye River
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Great Otway National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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.
7 Reviews on “Johanna Beach to Ryan's Den Hike (15km)”
Stage 8 of the the Great Ocean Walk was a great section, with coastal views and kangaroo spotting at the Johanna River lookout being real highlights. Melanesia Beach was a secluded paradise – definitely worth the visit. Stage 9 lived up to its “hard” rating. The constant ups and downs after Melanesia Beach were a bit of a rollercoaster, but the sense of accomplishment reaching Ryan’s Den was unbeatable. The campsite looks amazing – perfect for a rest after a challenging but rewarding day. If you’re looking for a scenic and challenging hike with a secluded beach reward, this is a must-do! Just be prepared for those Stage 9 climbs! Although they really aren’t that bad.