The Macs Point Lookout Track offers a semi-rewarding 8-kilometre hike in the scenic Mount Buffalo National Park, Victoria. With a grade 3 difficulty, this trail typically takes around four hours to complete, making it a manageable yet satisfying outdoor experience. Starting at the Snow Plain, just 300 metres south of Leviathan, the track gradually weaves its way through diverse terrain towards Macs Point, linking up with the Stanley Rocks and Giants Causeway along the way.
As the trail heads south-west, it crosses through expansive snow grass clearings that open up to reveal the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape. This section of the hike provides a taste of the park’s quieter, less-visited areas, giving a true sense of solitude. The highlight of the journey comes as you approach Macs Point, where the view stretches out over the Great Dividing Range, with its vast, folded terrain of the Victorian high country. The sheer scale and peacefulness of the panorama are both calming and awe-inspiring, offering a chance to pause and reflect while taking in the natural grandeur.
The trail itself is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it easy to navigate through this stunning part of the national park. Along the way, you'll encounter an array of native flora, adding a splash of colour to the landscape, while the calls of local birdlife provide a soothing soundtrack to your hike. While the track is moderately challenging due to its length and some narrow sections, it remains a lovely walk through varied and picturesque countryside.
At the lookout, you’ll find a collection of boulders offering a rustic vantage point, from which, on a clear day, you can gaze down the valley below. It’s a fantastic spot to pause and take in the surrounding views, which seem to stretch endlessly in every direction, enhancing the sense of space and serenity that defines this section of the park. Whether you're an experienced hiker or someone looking for a peaceful escape, the Macs Point Lookout Track is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mount Buffalo National Park.
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Total distance: 7689 m
Max elevation: 1525 m
Min elevation: 1417 m
Total climbing: 277 m
Total descent: -277 m
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Closest towns to this walk: Beechworth, Bright, Eurobin, Harrietville, Myrtleford, Ovens, Porepunkah, Tawonga South, Wandiligong, Wangaratta
Getting to the trailhead in Mount Buffalo National Park.
To reach the Macs Point Lookout Track trailhead, start by heading out from Melbourne. Get on Citylink/M2 from Bourke Street, King Street, Princes Highway/A60, State Route 60, and State Route 50, which will take about 12 minutes over a distance of 4.1 kilometres. From there, continue on the Hume Freeway/National Highway M31, heading towards Snow Road/C522 in Wangaratta South. This leg of the journey will take approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes, covering a distance of 237 kilometres. Once in Wangaratta South, take the exit for C522 and follow Snow Road/C522, Great Alpine Road/B500, and C535. The final stretch to your destination in Mount Buffalo will take another 1 hour and 31 minutes, spanning 105 kilometres. The trailhead for Macs Point is located at the snow plain, 300 metres south of the Leviathan, where the track begins its scenic journey.
Tucked into Victoria’s High Country, Mount Buffalo National Park is a place of striking contrasts and quiet beauty. Granite cliffs rise from the landscape, softened by forests of snow gum and alpine ash. Waterfalls tumble into fern-lined creeks, while the crisp mountain air carries the scent of eucalyptus. This land holds deep cultural significance for the Taungurung Traditional Owners, whose connection to Country continues today.
More than 90 kilometres of marked walking tracks wind through this diverse terrain, offering everything from short strolls to longer, more remote hikes. You’ll pass through mossy gullies, open plateaus, and wildflower-filled meadows. It’s essential to stay on designated trails and carry a physical map, as phone signal can be unreliable and the alpine environment is sensitive to disturbance.
There are plenty of picnic areas to enjoy, whether you're after wide-open views or quiet, shaded corners. The Gorge Day Visitor Area and The Horn provide sweeping lookouts, while Eurobin Creek and Rollasons Falls offer easy access to gentle waterfalls. Grossmans Mill and the Oval are more secluded, and the Lakeside Day Visitor Area near Lake Catani is perfect for warm days, with picnic tables, toilets, shelters, barbecues, and space to swim or paddle a canoe.
Camping allows for a deeper connection to the landscape. Lake Catani Campground, open November to April, includes hot showers and toilets. In winter, campers can access it on foot or skis, with basic facilities available. For a quieter, more rugged experience, Rocky Creek and Mount McLeod campgrounds offer remote camping with minimal amenities—bookings are required and can be made online or by calling Parks Victoria on 13 1963.
Since its establishment in 1898, this 31,000-hectare park has protected unique subalpine ecosystems. Signs of past bushfires are still visible, but regrowth is underway, with vibrant new life emerging. Wildlife is abundant—keep an eye out for lyrebirds, wombats, and wallabies, especially near the road at dawn and dusk. Whether you're here for a few hours or a few days, Mount Buffalo has a way of leaving a lasting impression on those who take the time to explore its quiet trails.
Looking for hikes and trails in Mount Buffalo National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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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.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
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