Trail summary
Hike overview
The Mount Dunn and Macs Point circuit hike explores a number of interesting rock formations, snow gum and mountain ash forests, alpine creeks and the rocky summit of Mount Dunn.
Commence the hike at the reservoir day visitor area and walk back the way you drove in to the start of the Long Forest Plain Walking Track. After approximately 1.5 kilometres from the car park you will reach the turnoff to Mount Dunn on your right. There is a relatively steep climb of 100m to reach the summit but the views are certainly one of the best on the Buffalo Plateau.
From the summit retrace your steps back down the eastern side of Mount Dunn, turn right and descend into the valley below. At the next trail junction turn right and follow the trail as it climbs up towards Wild Dog Plain, Split Rocks and the Giants Causeway with its spectacular rock formations. After exploring this area continue south west across a few small snow grass plains to Macs Point and stunning views over the Great Dividing Range.
Retrace your steps, turning left at the junction to continue on to Rocky Creek Track. The final leg of the circuit follows the Rocky Creek Track north east as it passes through snow grass plains and Snow Gum forest.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1487 m
Min elevation: 1378 m
Total climbing: 345 m
Total descent: -345 m
Getting there
Drive towards Bright via Hume Highway, Wangaratta and Myrtleford. Take the turn off to Mount Buffalo near Porepunkah. Drive up to the Buffalo plateau, continue past the road to the chalet and drive until you see the Parks Office on your right. The gravel road to the reservoir is on the right about 500m past the Parks Office. If you reach the VicRoads depot you have gone to far. The road is suitable for 2WD vehicle but take care and drive slowly. Park at the end of the road near the reservoir.
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.
About the region
An all-seasons national park, Mount Buffalo has sheer cliffs, imposing granite tors, tumbling waterfalls, snow gums and stunning wildflowers. First reserved in 1898, the 31,000 hectare park contains vegetation and fauna adapted to extremes of weather, as a result of its sub-alpine location. As you drive and walk throughout the park, you will see evidence of the recent fires, but you will also see the vivid colours as species begin to regenerate. There is plenty of wildlife to see including Lyrebirds, Eastern Rosellas, Wombats and Swamp Wallabies. Many animals can be seen along the main tourist road so please drive carefully, especially at dawn and dusk.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
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.
3 Reviews on “Mount Dunn & Macs Point Hike (9.5km)”
Will Forde
Mount Dunn is definitely worth the hike, Macs point is very overgrown and not much to look at in my opinion (the reason why the track is also very overgrown I suspect). Have your wits about you here as Macs is a bit awkward to step out onto and if you are trying to find your way back and cant see the trail, get down a bit and look under the foliage.
Lisa you’d better go do it
Tristyn Joyce
Jackie Flaim
Simon Izzard