Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 483m
Min elevation: 455m
Total Ascent: 103m
Hike overview
The Koetong Creek Walking Track, a 4km grade 3 hike in Mount Lawson State Park, offers a delightful combination of nature, tranquillity, and a touch of adventure. Typically taking 1–2 hours to complete, this trail follows a management vehicle track from the Koetong Creek Camps to a picturesque spot known as The Spa, a natural rock chute and swimming hole nestled within the clear waters of Koetong Creek.
The walk winds through a serene bushland gully, flanked by native vegetation and accompanied by the soothing sounds of flowing water. In spring, the trail comes alive with vibrant wildflowers and the calls of native birdlife, creating a rich sensory experience. Granite boulders and cascading streams along the way provide plenty of places to pause, take in the surroundings, or simply sit and enjoy the beauty of the landscape. On warmer days, the creek's gentle flow reveals inviting rock pools, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Mount Lawson State Park spans over 13,000 hectares of rugged terrain, marked by towering peaks and deeply etched gullies. While the Koetong Creek Walking Track is a manageable day hike, extending your visit with an overnight stay can add another layer of enjoyment. The nearby campsites are well-equipped with fire pits and picnic tables, making it an ideal base for exploring the park at a leisurely pace.
Access to the trail requires some planning, as the roads leading in can be rough. While dry conditions might allow for 2WD vehicles with adequate clearance, a 4WD is strongly recommended during wetter months. Be aware that certain tracks within the park may close between June and November to protect the environment and ensure safety, so it’s best to check conditions on the Parks Victoria website before setting out.
Whether you’re soaking in a rock pool, admiring the native flora and fauna, or simply relishing the solitude of the bush, the Koetong Creek Walking Track provides a rewarding escape into the heart of Victoria’s wilderness. It’s a hike that invites you to slow down, savour the natural beauty, and perhaps linger a little longer than planned.
Track grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 483 m
Min elevation: 455 m
Total climbing: 103 m
Total descent: -103 m
GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
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: Mount Lawson State Park.
Mount Lawson State Park is located about 70km east of Albury-Wodonga. It lies between the Murray Valley Highway and the Murray River. Mt Lawson Road provides unsealed, fine weather, two wheel drive access to most popular visitor areas. Vehicle access to the northern part of the park is possible at The Kurrajongs.
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: Beechworth, Bonegilla, Chiltern, Corryong, Huon Creek, Mitta Mitta, Osbornes Flat, Tallangatta, Tintaldra, Walwa, Wangaratta, Wodonga, Yackandandah
About the region
Mount Lawson State Park is a sanctuary of natural beauty and biodiversity, making it an essential conservation site for rare plant and animal species.
For hiking enthusiasts, the park offers a variety of short to medium-length walking tracks that lead to stunning lookouts and serene water features nestled within rugged, rocky creeks.
Visit in spring to witness vibrant displays of native wildflowers carpeting the landscape. The park boasts nearly 300 native plant species, including several rare varieties.
Explore the park’s diverse forests, which change with elevation:
- On the high slopes, wander through open forests of Narrow-leaf Peppermint, Candlebark, Manna Gum, Blue Gum, and Brittle Gum.
- On the lower slopes, you’ll find Red Stringybark, Long-leaf Box, Red Box, and Broad-leaf Peppermint.
- The steep, dry northern slopes are dominated by Black Cypress-pine and Kurrajong trees.
Mount Lawson is also a haven for native wildlife. Keep an eye out for Eastern Grey Kangaroos, Red-necked and Black Wallabies, and the iconic Common Wombat. Birdwatchers might be lucky enough to spot the elusive Barking Owl, a rare species in Victoria, along with a variety of other birdlife.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Lawson State Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.





