The Cathedral Range is a special place that has a lot to offer hikers, but it should not be underestimated. The terrain is dominated by rocky ridges and outcrops, requiring navigation of steep climbs, uneven surfaces, and potentially slippery sections. Weather conditions can shift rapidly, so walkers must be prepared for all possibilities.
The Cathedral Range is a spectacular area that should be on any hikers to do list. This Little and Cathedral Peaks hike takes in the Northern part of the Range and has some truly spectacular views. Starting at Neds Gully Campground car park, cross the road then take the marked trail over the bridge.
Shortly you will see a junction to Neds Gully Track the right. Initially the track is gentle but shortly becomes steep. Eventually you will come to Neds Saddle. At the junction take the trail to head up to Neds Peak, admire the view and head back to Neds Saddle.
Back at the saddle take the marked trail to Little Cathedral. This follows the side of the Range and gradually rises. You will come to a junction where the trail goes to Cathedral peak to the left. Disregard this turnoff for now and continue to Little Cathedral.
Once you have admired the views, retrace your steps back to the junction to take Ridge Track up to Cathedral Peak. This part has a lot of rock scrambling, and care should be taken to keep a look out for trail markers. You will soon reach the main ridgeline and the Peak. From here the trail follows the ridge, but also drops down off the ridge at a few points.
Before long you will descend to another saddle, where the trail continues straight ahead, or drops down to your left. Take the left down Cathedral Peak Track. This drops very steeply and you should take care. Nearing Neds Saddle the trail eases off. Once you reach Neds Saddle then follow the trail back down to Neds Gully Carpark.
Camping in the Cathedral Range State Park
Cathedral Range State Park offers several camping options to suit different preferences.
Cooks Mill campground provides a scenic riverside location with shade and a variety of sites suitable for tents, campervans, and a limited number of caravans. Amenities include pit toilets, fireplaces, picnic tables, and shelters.
For a more secluded experience, Neds Gully campground is accessible by a short walk across a swing bridge. This campground is limited to tents only and offers basic amenities like pit toilets and fireplaces.
The Farmyard, designed for experienced hikers, provides a remote overnight camping option directly on the range. This location is accessible only on foot and has no facilities. Campers must bring their own drinking water, gas stove for cooking, and firewood (purchased from nearby towns as collecting firewood within the park is prohibited).
Regardless of your chosen campsite, remember to book online in advance for Neds Gully and Cooks Mill (bookings can be made through parks.vic.gov.au or by calling 13 1963). Specific campsites cannot be reserved, so selection happens upon arrival. Additionally, bring your own cooking plates and drinking water for all locations. Campfires are only permitted in designated fireplaces using purchased firewood, not collected from the park.
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.
- The Cathedral Range should not be underestimated.
- The terrain is dominated by rocky ridges and outcrops, requiring navigation of steep climbs, uneven surfaces, and potentially slippery sections.
- Weather conditions can shift rapidly, so walkers must be prepared for all possibilities.
- Be aware that many trails are steep and rocky, and can become slippery after rain or in misty weather.
- Only attempt to summit Sugarloaf Peak if you are comfortable with heights and exposed sections requiring scrambling.
- Follow the orange trail markers provided in designated areas.
- Plan for slower progress due to the rugged terrain. Expect to cover 1.5-2km per hour in some sections.
- Hiking poles are highly recommended for certain sections of the trails.
- Let someone know where you are hiking and when you expect to return.
- Exposed Ledges
- Rock Scrambling
- Steep Terrain
- Overnight Campsites
Total distance: 8681 m
Max elevation: 830 m
Min elevation: 313 m
Total climbing: 693 m
Total descent: -693 m
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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 to the trailhead: Cathedral Range State Park.
Cathedral Range State Park is 2 hrs 15 min from the Melbourne CBD. From Melbourne follow the Maroondah Highway to Buxton. Continue past Buxton for 9.5km and turn right into Cathedral Lane to find the park entrance 2.5km on your right. Turn right again on to Little River Road, continue for 2.5km and Neds Gully Camping Area is on your right.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
- 2WD Access
- Gravel Road
- Large Car Park
- Public Toilets
- Camping Area
Cathedral Range State Park boasts a dramatic landscape with jagged ridges offering stunning views and hiking trails. Hikers of all levels can explore the park's amazing and rugged beauty. The Friends Nature Trail provides a gentle introduction for families, while experienced walkers can traverse the challenging Razorback or longer circuit routes. All trails reward hikers with breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and valleys.
Camping allows visitors to experience the park under the starry night sky, sharing the environment with native wildlife like kangaroos and lyrebirds. Cooks Mill campground offers historical charm, while The Farmyard provides a secluded escape accessible only by foot.
Beyond hiking, the park caters to rock climbing enthusiasts. The Boulders offer a perfect training ground for beginners, whereas Sugarloaf Saddle and North Jawbone present a steeper challenge. Sugarloaf Saddle also boasts a stand of Mountain Ash, one of the world's tallest flowering trees, with some specimens reaching an astonishing 90 meters.
The Cathedral Range's rugged beauty demands respect. Hikers should be aware of the prevalent rocky terrain with steep climbs, uneven surfaces, and potential for slippery conditions. Weather changes rapidly, so be prepared for all possibilities.
The park holds significance for the Taungurung Traditional Owners, and their ongoing connection to this land is acknowledged and respected.
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8 Reviews on “Cathedral Range: Little & Cathedral Peaks Hike (9km)”
The Cathedral Range is such a beautiful escape close to Melbourne
Love this hike. Actually I love all the hikes at Cathedrals. Although Messmate track, not so much.
Trail Hiking Australia pretty special place.
Took my daughter up there last weekend.
Thoroughly enjoyable, especially on a sunny day.Media: https://www.facebook.com/10155841218611074/videos/825973739039223
Trail Hiking Australia
Media: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10160110175046074&set=p.10160110175046074&type=3
Trail Hiking Australia the lyrebirds were out in full force. Could hear heaps of them and even got to see one on the tail end of a performance. (No pun intended)
Media: https://www.facebook.com/10155841218611074/videos/1117264616234531
Chris Da Zube pretty active. That’s cool.
Chris Da Zube oh that’s a lot of fun. Hope she enjoyed it.
Trail Hiking Australia yup. All 12km of it.
Constant feed of snacks and chocolate got her through the usual “I simply can’t go on” moments.