Mount Bogong via Eskdale Spur is a 23km, grade 4 hike located in Alpine National Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 9-10 hours to complete.
Warning
The hike is strenuous and requires a good level of fitness. The hike is exposed and there is little shelter from the elements. During the winter months you should consider this a Grade 5 hike. Weather conditions can change rapidly and without warning in the alpine region.
Hike overview
Mount Bogong via Eskdale Spur is a challenging hike that is not for the faint of heart. It is a steep and rocky climb with little shade, and the weather conditions can change quickly. However, the views from the summit are truly spectacular, making it a rewarding hike for those who are up to the challenge.
The hike begins at the Mountain Creek Campsite, located on Mountain Creek Road. From there, the trail follows Mountain Creek upstream until it reaches the base of the Eskdale Spur. The track then climbs steeply up the spur, past Michell Hut to the tree line.
Once above the tree line, the track becomes more exposed and rocky. The views from this section of the hike are breathtaking, and on a clear day, you can see for miles in all directions. The track eventually reaches the summit of Mount Bogong, the highest mountain in Victoria. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lakes.
This hike returns via the same route. Alternatively you can take the popular Staircase Spur back to the trail-head.
It is possible to shorten this hike by commencing at Camp Creek Gap. See the variation below.
Overnight Camping
If you intend on making this an overnight hike, camping is available outside Michell Hut, approximately 2km from the summit down Eskdale Spur. This is a small hut with pit toilet and water tank.
Note: Huts in alpine areas are intended for emergency use only and you should not plan to sleep in them or use the emergency firewood.
Be Prepared
This hike requires that you have a sufficient level of equipment (in good working order), fitness and self-reliance.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 1979 m
Min elevation: 601 m
Total climbing: 1487 m
Total descent: -1492 m
Variation commencing at Camp Creek Gap (9.5km)
Max elevation: 1979 m
Min elevation: 1119 m
Total climbing: 889 m
Total descent: -889 m
Tips
- The hike should take around 9-10 hours to complete.
- There is only a small water tank at Michelle Hut approximately half way up that supplies untreated water and may at times be dry. Be sure to carry sufficient water for your needs.
- Protect yourself from the sun and wind, especially in the summer months.
- In the winter, be prepared for snow and ice.
Trail location
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Getting there
The hike starts and ends at Mountain Creek Camping Area. From Melbourne, drive to the small town of Tawonga (4km north of Mount Beauty). From Towonga, Mountain Creek Roads heads east for 10.5km to the camping area. There are pleasant campsites and a pit toilet here.
About the region
The Alpine National Park is a national park located in the Central Highlands and Alpine regions of Victoria, Australia. The 646,000-hectare national park is located northeast of Melbourne. It is the largest National Park in Victoria, and covers much of the higher areas of the Great Dividing Range in Victoria, including Victoria's highest point, Mount Bogong at 1,986 metres and the associated subalpine woodland and grassland of the Bogong High Plains. The park's north-eastern boundary is along the border with New South Wales, where it abuts the Kosciuszko National Park.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
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Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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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.