The Mount Buller Traverse (also known as West Ridge Circuit) offers a challenging and rewarding hike through stunning alpine landscapes. This 20 kilometer loop, classified as Grade 4, traverses the scenic West Ridge and rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views.
The hike ascends the dramatic West Ridge, offering a mix of open Snowgum woodlands and exciting rock scrambles. As you gain elevation, prepare to be awestruck by unparalleled views unfolding from the summit of Mount Buller. The descent provides a scenic counterpoint, following a well-maintained track that brings you back to your starting point.
Important considerations are essential before heading out on this trek. The trail demands a good level of fitness and experience with challenging trails. Sustained uphill sections require endurance, and basic rock scrambling skills are necessary, particularly in higher elevation sections with potential exposure. Winter conditions significantly increase the difficulty. Attempt this hike only with proper snow and ice gear and expertise in traversing snow, mixed scrambling, and using crampons and ice axes. The southern face is extremely steep and hazardous when icy. Always check weather conditions before setting off and be prepared for sudden changes.
The traditional route begins at the junction of Doughty and Summit Roads. Ascend the West Ridge track, taking in the scenic surrounds. The path is steep and involves rock scrambles, so be prepared for a challenging but rewarding climb.
There are a couple of options for the descent. You can descend the mountain's northeastern summit to access the McLaughlin Shoulder. This section can be steep and rocky but is well-defined. After roughly 3 kilometers, it connects with the Klingsporn Bridle Track, a gentler path leading back to the base.
To avoid a long walk along Mount Buller Road, consider a car shuffle. This typically involves leaving one car at your starting point (e.g., Loch Street) and another at Doughty Road's base or the West Ridge track's trailhead further up.
Remember, safety is paramount. Undertake this hike only with appropriate experience and preparedness for the conditions. Enjoy the challenge and the breathtaking scenery!
- Only for the very fit, this involves over 1300m of accumulated vertical ascent.
- This is a challenging hike that should not be underestimated. Do not attempt this hike during Summer or Winter unless you are experienced in Alpine conditions and have the necessary equipment for snow hiking (crampons/ice axe/snow shoes)
- This hike requires that you have a sufficient level of equipment (in good working order), fitness and self-reliance. It is vital that you take personal responsibility for ensuring you are prepared!
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Total distance: 19871 m
Max elevation: 1773 m
Min elevation: 599 m
Total climbing: 1321 m
Total descent: -1320 m
Getting to the trailhead: Alpine National Park.
From Melbourne, take the Hume Fwy/National Highway M31, C382, Goulburn Valley Hwy/B340, B300 and Mount Buller Rd/C320 to Summit Rd in Mount Buller. Continue along Summit Road to just beyond Sawmill Settlement to Doughty Road. The hike commences from the junction of Summit Road and Doughty Road. You can park your vehicle in a number of picnic areas opposite this junction on the northern side of Summit Road.
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
- 2WD Access
- Bitumen Road
- Gravel Road
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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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.
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.
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2 Reviews on “Mount Buller Traverse Hike (20km)”
The Mount Buller West Ridge Circuit lived up to the hype! It wasn’t for the faint of heart – the climb up the West Ridge was a real leg burner, and those rock scrambles got my adrenaline pumping. But wow, the views from the summit? Totally worth it. Everything stretched out before me like a giant map, and the crisp alpine air was amazing.
The descent via McLaughlin Shoulder was a bit tricky, definitely needed to watch my footing on the loose rocks. But then popping onto the Klingsporn Bridle Track was a relief – nice and easy on the knees for the rest of the way down.
This hike definitely requires some experience. If you’re fit and up for a challenge, though, I highly recommend it. Just be sure to check the weather and come prepared – conditions can change quickly up there.
Just spent the weekend doing this hike and it is spectacular.
Jack Stanton Might find button man here ?
Jill Wren get the message !!
It is a great hike just the section on the way back is really overgrown and a bit hard to navigate.