Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 1352m
Min elevation: 287m
Total Ascent: 1322m
Hike overview
The Mount Buffalo Wilhelmina Spur hike is a rewarding 12-kilometre journey through one of Victoria’s most intriguing and scenic alpine landscapes. Situated in Mount Buffalo National Park, this grade 3 trail offers a half-day outing—typically around four hours—for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, changing vegetation, and expansive views, all within a relatively accessible framework. While the route shares much of its path with the well-known Big Walk, its character and highlights make it a worthwhile hike in its own right.
The trail begins at the northern end of the Seven Mile 4WD Track, where it meets Eurobin Creek Track. From here, a gentle climb unfolds over 700 metres, bringing you to Eurobin Point at around 680 metres elevation. A short stint on the main road leads you back onto the walking trail as it weaves its way west along the Wilhelmina Spur, gradually gaining height through open forest. After crossing the Mount Buffalo Tourist Road once more, it's a brief 400-metre walk to the Rollasons Falls Picnic Area. This is a handy rest stop, equipped with toilets, fireplaces, and picnic tables. If time allows, the 4-kilometre return side trip to Rollasons Falls adds about 1.5 hours and offers a different perspective of the park’s natural charm.
Continuing from the picnic area, the track winds through montane forest where tall Candlebark Gums rise above a bracken understorey. This section is alive with birdlife—listen for the cheerful calls of Grey Fantails and Thornbills—and you may even spot a Swamp Wallaby slipping through the undergrowth. The trail crosses the road a few more times before reaching Mackeys Lookout at 920 metres, where the views open up towards the distant peaks of the Australian Alps. Here, the environment begins to shift. Granite slabs start to dominate the landscape, marking the geological backbone of Mount Buffalo. This section can be quite slippery, especially in damp weather, so tread carefully and follow the orange arrow markers along the old ‘Zig Zag’ route once used to ascend the mountain.
A short detour—just 100 metres—takes you to Marriott’s Lookout, offering striking views across the Gorge and towards Queen Victoria Pinnacle. As the track climbs beyond this point, the forest again changes character. At around 1150 metres, Alpine Ash (also known as Woollybutt) begins to appear, with a shrubby understorey filled with native peas and grevilleas.
The trail continues on to Manfields Junction, the highest point of the hike at 1350 metres. From here, two optional lookouts—Manfields and Reeds—are just a few hundred metres away and provide sweeping views. The track then rejoins the Big Walk and offers two options for the final stretch. You can either take the Gorge Heritage Walk loop, which reconnects further along the main track, or continue directly onwards—both routes are roughly equal in distance.
Highlights in the final section include Wilkinson’s Lookout, just 300 metres off the main trail, where you can gaze across the staggering 330-metre North Wall. Keep an eye out for climbers navigating the vertical granite cliffs near Pulpit Rock. The landscape here has been shaped over 360 million years by Crystal Brook, carving out the vast Gorge that defines this part of the park. After crossing the bridge, the path leads past The Oval Picnic Area, where interpretive signs share stories from the area’s early European history, particularly through the lens of the legendary local guide, Alice.
The trail finishes at the Gorge Day Visitor Area, which has basic facilities including toilets, picnic tables, and a shelter. Though the historic Chalet is currently closed, the area still serves as a central hub for short walks and scenic viewpoints. Nearby lookouts such as Bents Lookout and Echo Point provide dramatic vistas over the valley below and towards the alpine ranges beyond. From the lower carpark, other trails fan out towards features like the Underground River, the Monolith, and Lake Catani, which also offers a campground for those wanting to linger a little longer in this remarkable place.
Tips
- A good level of fitness is recommended, as The Big Walk gains over 1,000 metres of elevation across just 9 kilometres—it's a steady uphill climb.
- Wear sturdy, supportive footwear suitable for uneven and potentially slippery terrain.
- Carry plenty of water, some high-energy snacks, and a weatherproof jacket—temperatures can drop significantly as you gain altitude.
- Take regular breaks to rest and enjoy the changing forest, birdlife, and expansive views along the way.
- This is a one-way hike, so plan ahead with a car shuffle or be prepared to retrace your steps for the return journey.
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Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1352 m
Min elevation: 287 m
Total climbing: 1322 m
Total descent: -266 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Mount Buffalo National Park.
To reach the trailhead from Melbourne, follow the Hume Freeway (National Highway M31) north towards Wangaratta. Take the exit for Snow Road (C522) at Wangaratta South, then continue along C522 before joining the Great Alpine Road (B500) through Myrtleford and Porepunkah. From there, turn right onto Mount Buffalo Road (C535) and cross the Noonameena Bridge. The trailhead is located at the northern end of the Seven Mile 4WD Track, where it intersects with Eurobin Creek Track. If you’re not planning to return via the same route, it’s important to organise a car shuffle, with a second vehicle parked at the Gorge Day Visitor Area. Alternatively, you might consider camping overnight on the plateau and completing the return walk the following day.
Closest towns to this walk: Beechworth, Bright, Eurobin, Harrietville, Myrtleford, Ovens, Porepunkah, Tawonga South, Wandiligong, Wangaratta
About the region
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.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Buffalo National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
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.
Explore safe
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.
Packing checklists
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.
Let someone know
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
Suggest an edit
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.
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.