Trail summary
Hike overview
Mount St Gwinear is a mountain in Victoria, Australia, located at the north-east end of the Baw Baw National Park in the Gippsland high country. The walk via the summit of Mount St Gwinear to Mount Whitelaw winds through heathland and Snow Gum forest. The magnificent views, stretching across the valleys of the Thomson and Aberfeldy Rivers and into the Victorian Alps, are a perfect reward. From Mount St Gwinear follow the trail west until intersecting the Australian Alps Walking Trail. Follow the trail North West across the plateau until you reach Mount Whitelaw near the start of the Thomson River.
Overnight hike for kids
This makes an excellent overnight hike for kids and a good introduction to the Victorian Alps. Each day is not too long and while the terrain is undulating there are not a lot of big climbs. Camping is staggered along the plateau and at the Whitelaw Hut Ruins where there is only a chimney remaining. There were plenty of nice spots for tents and the nearby creek for fresh water.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1567 m
Min elevation: 1300 m
Total climbing: 878 m
Total descent: -879 m
Getting there
The main access to the plateau is from the Mount Erica and St Gwinear carparks along signposted roads off the Thomson Valley Road, north of Erica. The Baw Baw Alpine Resort which adjoins the park can be reached from the Princes Highway at Drouin by following the Mount Baw Baw Tourist Road.
The St Gwinear car park is just over one hour's drive from the Latrobe Valley or three hours from Melbourne via Erica. Roads are sealed apart from the last section of thirteen kilometres along the Thomson Valley and Mount St Gwinear roads. The road is regularly cleared of snow but is often icy or slushy.
Photo gallery
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Track grade
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.
About the region
Spectacular year round, Baw Baw National Park covers a substantial part of the Baw Baw Plateau. As the snow melts see the hills come alive with vivid wildflower displays. Explore the wonderland of geological formations and walk or snowshoe one of the many trails that criss-cross through tangled snowgum forests.
Walk a section of the Australian Alps Walking Track and discover Mushroom Rocks, a maze of giant granite tors rising from the forest. Head to Mount St Gwinear. Snowshoe, toboggan or cross-country ski one of the many trails that criss-cross the twisted snowgum forests.
Walk the same trails in spring and see the Baw Baw Plateau come alive with a vivid display of wildflowers.
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Similar trails nearby
Looking for things to do in Baw Baw National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
Let someone know
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
Weather
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 St Gwinear to Mount Whitelaw Hike (25.2km)”
Awesome hike
Just finished this hike today, was a long day but totally amazing. Couple of things I noted: heath is over-growing much of the AAWT beyond Phillack Saddle. Keep a close eye on the trail. There is also an alternate start via the viewing platform trail that links up to the main path. It’s quicker and more interesting. The low path to the east of Mt St Gwinear has the best views over the Thompson river valley, it’s good to use on the way down if you don’t want to go up and over the summit again and there were still patches of snow still, which was heaps of fun.