Tucked away in the remote northern reaches of Mount Buffalo National Park, the Mount McLeod hike offers a quieter, less-travelled path through rugged alpine terrain. At 16.5 kilometres return, this Grade 4 trail is best suited to experienced hikers with a solid level of fitness. It generally takes around seven hours to complete as a day walk, though many choose to turn it into an overnight adventure to fully appreciate the seclusion and slower rhythm of the landscape.
Starting from the Reservoir Picnic Area, the trail follows an old winter ski route, climbing gently through alpine woodland. After about 670 metres, a sign for the Short Circuit Track appears on the right. This is worth noting, as it offers a pleasant and more sheltered alternative for the return leg. From here, the track winds steadily uphill until it rejoins Mount McLeod Road roughly 1.5 kilometres in. Turning right, the path continues northeast beneath the slopes of Andersons Peak before reaching the North Buffalo Saddle, where granite outcrops and mountain views begin to open up.
At around 6.4 kilometres from the trailhead, you’ll come to Dels Plain – a grassy clearing tucked among snow gums and alpine wetlands. This spot serves as a designated campsite and is well-suited to hikers wanting to split the walk over two days. It’s equipped with a composting toilet and seasonal access to small creeks, though it’s important to check conditions with a park ranger and treat any collected water. Dels Plain accommodates up to ten people (two per site), and bookings are required. If you're staying overnight, bring plenty of water and a fuel stove, as open fires aren't permitted.
From the campsite, it's a further kilometre to the summit of Mount McLeod. The trail climbs gradually at first, then steepens slightly as it approaches the peak. At 1529 metres, Mount McLeod is the highest point in the northern part of the park. The summit rewards walkers with expansive views across the Mount Buffalo plateau and down into the Oven Valley – a rugged, layered panorama shaped by centuries of wind and weather.
Whether you’re completing the hike in a day or stretching it out overnight, the return journey follows the same route. When you reach the intersection with the Short Circuit Track, you can either retrace your earlier steps along the road or take the alternate track for a change in scenery. Either way, the sense of quiet that defines this part of the park tends to stay with you long after you’ve left it behind.
The Mount McLeod hike is ideal for those looking to spend time immersed in nature, away from the busier trails. It’s a route where preparation, self-sufficiency, and an appreciation for the subtleties of the alpine environment go a long way.
- Water is only available from a hardened access point located approximately 100m southwest of the campsite - where the stream crosses the track. Always boil, treat or filter water before drinking as Giardia is present. Advanced bookings and payment are required.
- Fires are prohibited at the campsite and it is recommended to bring a fuel stove.
- The campground has a capacity of two people per site and a maximum capacity of 10 people.
- You can book online or call Parks Victoria on 13 19 63.
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Total distance: 16437 m
Max elevation: 1505 m
Min elevation: 1277 m
Total climbing: 690 m
Total descent: -688 m
Getting to the trailhead: Mount Buffalo National Park.
Reaching the trailhead for the Mount McLeod hike is relatively straightforward by car. From Melbourne, take the Hume Highway northeast and follow signs through Wangaratta and Myrtleford toward Bright. Just before Bright, turn off at Porepunkah and begin the scenic climb up Mount Buffalo Road, which winds its way up to the plateau. Continue past the turnoff to the historic Mount Buffalo Chalet, keeping an eye out for the Parks Victoria office on your right-hand side.
About 500 metres beyond the office, a gravel road veers off to the right—this leads to the Reservoir Picnic Area, where the hike begins. The reservoir is a good landmark to confirm you’re in the right place. While the gravel road is accessible to two-wheel drive vehicles, it can be narrow and uneven in sections, so take it slow and drive with care. There is limited parking available near the reservoir. In winter, snow and ice can affect road conditions, so it’s important to check the latest weather and road updates before making the trip.
Closest towns to this walk: Beechworth, Bright, Eurobin, Harrietville, Myrtleford, Ovens, Porepunkah, Tawonga South, Wandiligong, Wangaratta
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.
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Buffalo National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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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.
8 Reviews on “Mount McLeod Summit Hike (16.5km)”
Ness Crossley
This one’s a great overnight hike too.
Jacqui Williams
Jason Whittle
John Smoljko ??
Joyce C ??
Leah Smeaton not a problem
Leesa Swanson when the snow has gone? Lol
Lorraine Placid Barham. Becky B Bowen. Jay Wust. Angela Cowling. Jessica Lea
Maddison Ruggiero Sajah Ramadan
Melissa Currell ???
Nice, think it would be a good hike for a day trip
Nice… Ta
Pencil this in for aug/sept?
Peter McNamara interested ?
Scott Timson
Sharna Gilby
Stephanie Wong see follow this page for daywalks in Victoria
Suze another overnight hike that we can do.
Tell me more
Tim Gu there will be snow on the hike
Tim Joyce how about a snow hike?