Mount McLeod is a 16.2km, grade 3 hike located in Mount Buffalo National Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 7 hours to complete.
Hike overview
The Mount McLeod hike explores the Northern Buffalo Remote and Natural Area and at its furthest point summits Mount McLeod, the highest peak (1529m) on the northern corner of Mount Buffalo. If you are looking for that sense of remoteness that can't be found anywhere else in the park then this hike is for you. The Mount McLeod hike commences at the Reservoir picnic area and follows, what is during winter, the Mount McLeod ski trail (a closed vehicle track). A short distance (approx 670m) along road you will need to locate the signposted Short Circuit Track on your right. This track provides a nice change from the road walk which this route follows on the return journey.
After approximately 1.5km you will rejoin Mount McLeod Road. Turn right and continue northeast below Andersons Peak onto the North Buffalo Saddle. Continue in the same direction along a ridge-line which provides occasional glimpses of the surrounding valley and rocky peaks. At approximately 6.4km from the trail head you will reach Dels Plain, followed by Second Plain. Dels Plain is an official overnight hikers camp should you decide to turn this into an overnight hike. Dels Plain is an idea camping area among the snow-gums with open areas, inviting snow-grass, plenty of shelter and even a composting toilet so you can put those shovels away. Water can be procured from a number of small creeks in the plain but it is wise to check with the Ranger before heading out to ensure they are actually flowing. As with all water it is wise to treat, boil or filter it before consumption. Even in Alpine areas giardia is present and on a recent trip to this area one of our teams was infected after not treating the water that was collected.
If you are camping overnight it is a good ideas to drop your packs and set up camp before heading on to the summit of Mount McLeod. From Dels Plain, continue east then south for a further 1km to the summit of Mount McLeod. Like most Buffalo hikes the views of the surrounding plateau and beyond to the Oven Valley really open up as you reach the top. If you are camping overnight, return to your campsite at Dels Plain. Whether making this a day hike or overnight to return to the trail head you simply need to retrace your steps and follow the trail back. On reaching the short circuit track you have the option of turning left to return to the start or continue along Mount McLeod Road.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 1504 m
Min elevation: 1255 m
Total climbing: 660 m
Total descent: -660 m
Tips
- 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.
Trail location
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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.
Gallery
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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.
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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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 Mcleod Hike (16.2km)”
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?