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.
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.
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.
- This hike typically takes 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.
Total distance: 23415 m
Max elevation: 1979 m
Min elevation: 601 m
Total climbing: 1487 m
Total descent: -1492 m
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Variation commencing at Camp Creek Gap (9.5km)
Total distance: 9366 m
Max elevation: 1979 m
Min elevation: 1119 m
Total climbing: 889 m
Total descent: -889 m
Login to Download GPXGPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.
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.
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: Alpine National Park.
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.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
- 2WD Access
- Bitumen Road
- Large Car Park
- Public Toilets
- Picnic Table
- Camping Area
Find accommodation close to the trailhead including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Use the interactive map to explore available options in nearby towns.
Nearby towns: Benalla, Bright, Dinner Plain, Falls Creek, Harrietville, Hotham Heights, Mansfield, Mitta Mitta, Mount Beauty, Mount Hotham, Myrtleford, Omeo, Porepunkah, Tawonga South, Wangaratta
The Alpine National Park is a national park 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.
Looking for more walks in or near Alpine National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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