The McMillans Walking Track runs between the Alpine Road near Cobungra, about 17 km from the alpine town of Omeo, and Woods Point, a small historic town in the mountains east of Melbourne. The track can be walked in either direction, starting from either end.
The McMillans Walking Track is a demanding 220-kilometre hike through the Victorian Alps, extending from Cobungra near Omeo to Woods Point. Classified as a grade 5 walk, it is designed for experienced hikers and typically takes fourteen days to complete.
Less renowned than its counterpart, the Southern Alps Walking Track, the McMillans Track follows the southern edge of the Australian Alps. Due to limited available information and challenging trail conditions in some areas, strong navigation skills and self-reliance are essential. The track's history traces back to 1864 when Angus McMillan established a route connecting the coast to the goldfields.
Over time, the original track became obscured until its rediscovery in 1983 by John Smith and volunteers from the Ben Cruachan Walking Club. Their efforts to clear and maintain the trail culminated in its official reopening in 1988. Beyond its historical significance, marked by remnants of stone walls and mining activities, the walk offers scenic beauty and traverses diverse terrain.
Characterised by deep gullies and river crossings, the McMillans Walking Track provides a unique and challenging experience. It is often considered excellent preparation for the more renowned Australian Alps Walking Track.
The original track has been restored by the Ben Cruachan Walking Club, the best place to find information.
The McMillans Walking Track offers valuable preparation for the Australian Alps Walking Track (AAWT). Both journeys share characteristics of alpine terrain, including forests, steep ascents and descents. However, the McMillans Track distinguishes itself with a more significant challenge: ten river crossings, seven of which require wading.
History
In 1864, Angus McMillan led an expedition to cut a track through the high country of Victoria to link the goldfields together. It took about one year to cut an eight foot wide track that was suitable for pack horses. This was used for many years but as the goldfields declined and modern roads replaced the need for a pack horse trail, the track fell into obscurity and vanished under the scrub.
In 1983, the Ben Cruachan Walking Club began a project to discover and remark the original MacMillans Walking Track from Woods Point to Omeo. This small club based at Maffra (a town in Gippsland in eastern Victoria) was led by John Smith and took on a difficult task as the track had all but vanished. On such a project, probably the hardest job of all is getting official approval. By 1987 they had this and the track was remarked. In 1988 it was officially re-opened.
In places, the original track had been 'improved' to a road. Initially, the track follows these roads and it is intended that these sections will gradually be replaced by walking track to make it more interesting for bushwalkers. Where possible, the track follows McMillan's original route.
Access
The track crosses several major roads that cross the alpine region. The track does not pass through any towns and you can either carry all supplies or use one of the access roads to put in a food drop. The most useful roads for a re-supply point are the Jamieson-Licola Road, the Tamboritha Road (near Licola)
- Trail conditions vary, encompassing established tracks, vehicle paths, and sections without defined routes.
- It's important to note that bushfires are common in the alpine region. Subsequent regrowth can lead to overgrown sections of the track, as clearing efforts may not be immediate.
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McMillans Walking Track 1864 Route
Total distance: 214781 m
Max elevation: 1567 m
Min elevation: 276 m
Total climbing: 11139 m
Total descent: -11514 m
McMillans Walking Track via Crooked River
Total distance: 223941 m
Max elevation: 1598 m
Min elevation: 298 m
Total climbing: 10810 m
Total descent: -11190 m
Getting to the trailhead: Alpine National Park.
The McMillans Walking Track runs between the Alpine Road near Cobungra, about 17 km from the alpine town of Omeo, and Woods Point, a small historic town in the mountains east of Melbourne. The track can be walked in either direction, starting from either end.
Closest towns to this walk: Benalla, Bright, Dinner Plain, Falls Creek, Harrietville, Hotham Heights, Mansfield, Mitta Mitta, Mount Beauty, Mount Hotham, Myrtleford, Omeo, Porepunkah, Tawonga South, Wangaratta, Woods Point
Alpine National Park is a significant part of the traditional Country of the Taungurung and Gunaikurnai Peoples. As Victoria’s largest national park, it stretches from central Gippsland to the New South Wales border, safeguarding some of the world's most unique landscapes. From towering Alpine Ash, Australia’s tallest flowering tree, to the delicate snow gum forests, this rugged environment is home to extraordinary wildlife such as the endangered mountain pygmy-possum and the elusive alpine dingo.
This vast, mountainous region offers countless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Embark on challenging hikes through soaring alpine ranges, explore vibrant wildflower meadows on horseback, or test your limits on world-class mountain bike trails. For those seeking thrills, white-water rafting, four-wheel driving, and cross-country skiing are also popular pursuits.
Discover the rich history of the High Country on the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing or the Wonnangatta Four-wheel Drive. Challenge yourself on the Razorback, leading to the summit of Mount Feathertop, Victoria’s second highest peak, or conquer the state’s tallest mountain, Mount Bogong. Immerse yourself in the region’s heritage by visiting historic huts scattered across the Bogong High Plains, or experience the rush of white-water rafting on the Mitta Mitta River. Alpine National Park is renowned for its exceptional ski touring terrain, catering to both experienced and novice enthusiasts.
Located in North East Victoria, approximately 330 kilometres from Melbourne, Alpine National Park spans an impressive 646,000 hectares. Its crown jewel is Mount Bogong, known as Warkwoolowler in the Dhudhuroa language, which rises to 1,986 metres. The park also encompasses other prominent peaks, including Mount Feathertop and Mount Hotham, as well as the vast, high-altitude Bogong High Plains.
This pristine environment supports over 1,100 native plant species, with 12 found nowhere else on Earth. Among its unique inhabitants is the critically endangered mountain pygmy-possum, a remarkable creature adapted to the harsh alpine conditions.
Alpine National Park is a place of dramatic contrasts. Summer brings vibrant wildflowers and ideal conditions for camping and hiking, while winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing at the renowned resorts of Mount Hotham, Dinner Plain, and Falls Creek. It's essential to be prepared for changeable weather conditions year-round, especially when venturing beyond resort areas during winter.
Looking for more walks in or near Alpine National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 5 (Difficult) - Walks for the Most Experienced: Grade 5 represents the most challenging walking tracks on the
AWTGS. These are only recommended for very experienced and fit walkers with specialised skills, including navigation and emergency first aid. Tracks are likely to be very rough, very steep, and unmarked. Walks may be more than 20 kilometers. These challenging walks demand a high level of fitness and experience to navigate difficult terrain, significant elevation changes, and potentially unformed paths.
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
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
6 Reviews on “McMillans Walking Track (220km)”
Ooooo 🤔 #goals
Kellie Monea
Anyone done this? I’ve walked sections but never the entire length.