Hike at a glance

57,374

Quick overview: Experience the rugged beauty of Victoria's second highest peak, Mount Feathertop, via the iconic Razorback Walking Track in Alpine National Park. Starting and ending at Diamantina Hut, near Harrietville and 374km from the Melbourne CBD, this challenging 22km return hike is a Grade 4 trail that traverses steep slopes and a high alpine ridge, providing panoramic views of the Victorian High Country. Preparation and respect for changing weather conditions are vital, especially during the winter months when the terrain can become hazardous. For an unforgettable bushwalk packed with dramatic landscapes, Mount Feathertop - Razorback hike is a must-do.

Hike length

22km

Average duration

7 hrs

Trail Difficulty

Grade 4 (Hard)

Hike Type

Return

Technical details

Max elevation: 1898m
Min elevation: 1608m
Total Ascent: 942m

Start: Diamantina Hut

End: Diamantina Hut

Location: Alpine National Park

State: Victoria

Nearest town: Harrietville

State capital distance: 374km

Latitude: -36.97609393235454

Longitude: 147.1216803789139

Check current conditions
Track conditions, access and closures can change quickly due to weather, fire, maintenance or safety concerns. Always check the relevant land manager’s website before you visit. Trail Hiking Australia does not provide real-time track and closure monitoring, and land managers remain the authoritative source for current alerts, closures and access restrictions.

Hike details

Difficulty

Planning

Safety

Getting there

The region

Nearby hikes

Weather

Trail details

The walk to Mount Feathertop along the Razorback is a challenging and rewarding journey that requires careful preparation and respect for the conditions. It is essential for walkers to be fit and equipped, as the weather can change unexpectedly, especially in higher altitudes. The area is known for its rapidly shifting weather patterns, so walkers should be prepared for sudden changes in temperature, rain, or snow. In winter, the terrain becomes even more demanding, and only experienced parties should consider skiing in the area due to the increased risks posed by snow and ice.

Hike summary

The Mount Feathertop - Razorback hike takes you to the summit of Mount Feathertop, the second highest mountain in Victoria and one of the state’s most striking peaks. The mountain is connected to Mount Hotham by The Razorback, a narrow ridge that offers panoramic views along the way. Unlike many nearby mountains, Mount Feathertop features steep slopes all the way to the summit, giving it a rugged, distinctive profile. Its dramatic appearance, combined with its challenging terrain, makes it one of the most appealing peaks in the Victorian High Country.

The hike is popular in both summer and winter, though it’s important to approach it with respect for the conditions. In summer, it offers fantastic hiking opportunities, while in winter, it transforms into a venue for mountaineering and extreme skiing. However, it’s important to note that the area can be dangerous, particularly in winter. Cornices and rapidly changing weather conditions have led to fatalities, so it’s essential to treat the mountain with caution and be well-prepared.

The Razorback Walking Track begins at Diamantina Hut, located 2.5 km on the Harrietville side of the Hotham Village. The track crosses the exposed high ridge linking Mount Hotham and Mount Feathertop, offering excellent views for most of the hike. The ridge is very exposed, so it is important to avoid crossing it in bad or unsettled weather. The track meets the Bungalow Spur Track at The Cross, about 1.5 km from the summit. From there, the final ascent to the top is steep but rewarding. If you’ve made transport arrangements, you can descend to Harrietville via the Bungalow Spur Track, otherwise, you’ll return along the same route.

The Razorback Walk is one of Victoria’s most iconic hikes, traversing a high alpine ridge to the summit of Mount Feathertop, which at 1922 metres, offers some of the most spectacular views in the state.

Additional Information:

Overnight hike for kids

This overnight hike is a great choice for kids, offering a manageable challenge while introducing them to the beauty of the Victorian Alps. The track includes a few steep sections, but they are short and not overly strenuous. Federation Hut, the campsite for the night, is well-equipped with a wood fire and a water tank, providing a comfortable base. There are also several excellent campsites outside the hut, as camping inside is not permitted. For added convenience, a composting toilet is located nearby. This hike provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to experience nature in a safe and accessible way.

Track difficulty

Grade 4 (hard) badge

Grade 4 (Hard)

Steep, rough, and demanding
These are challenging walks suited to experienced hikers. Expect sustained climbs, rough and uneven terrain, and longer distances.

Tracks may be less defined, and signage can be limited, so navigation awareness is important. These walks require good fitness, confidence on difficult terrain, and the ability to manage fatigue over time.

Safety note: Fatigue, poor navigation, or a sudden weather change can turn a hard walk into a serious situation.

Planning essentials

Practical Information:

The best map for this hike is the Mount Feathertop - Hotham 1:30,000 2nd edition, published by Rooftop in 2009.

Trail Features:

Alpine Region
Scenic Viewpoints
Alpine Huts
Exposed Ledges
Steep Terrain
Untreated Water
Overnight Campsites

Map and GPX file

Mount Feathertop: The Razorback Hike (22km)

Total distance: 22027 m
Max elevation: 1898 m
Min elevation: 1608 m
Total climbing: 942 m
Total descent: -942 m

GPX files, maps and content are copyright Trail Hiking Australia. Not to be copied, redistributed or uploaded to other platforms including AllTrails.

Safety and preparation

Planning this hike?

Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Interactive Safety Scenarios. Then refer to the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.

Let someone know

Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.

Free checklists

Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.

Getting there

Alpine National Park

To reach the trailhead for the Razorback Walking Track, drive to Hotham Village and continue on the Great Alpine Road towards Harrietville. The track begins at Diamantina Hut, which is located 2.5 km on the Harrietville side of the village. From the village, follow the road carefully, and look for the signposting to Diamantina Hut, where the trailhead is situated. It's advisable to check road conditions, especially in winter, as snow and weather can impact access.

Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here →

Get there with Google Maps

Access Conditions:

2WD Access
Bitumen Road
Steep Road
Winding Road
Public Toilets

Accommodation nearby

Find hotels, cabins, and campgrounds near the trailhead. Click the button below to open an interactive map automatically centred on this hike's location — no searching required.

Find Accommodation

Or browse accommodation in nearby towns: Benalla, Bright, Dinner Plain, Falls Creek, Harrietville, Hotham Heights, Mansfield, Mitta Mitta, Mount Beauty, Mount Hotham, Myrtleford, Omeo, Porepunkah, Tawonga South, Wangaratta

Discover more

About the region

Exploring Australia's Alpine National Park

The Alpine National Park offers a range of exciting outdoor activities that cater to all levels of adventure. Located in Victoria, this park is home to some of the state's highest mountain ranges, making it a popular destination for bushwalkers, hikers, and nature lovers. The park’s stunning landscapes are perfect for exploring on foot, on horseback, or even by mountain bike, with plenty of world-class trails to enjoy.

For a truly memorable experience, try the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing, which takes you across towering alpine ridgelines and through lush river valleys, all set against breathtaking alpine scenery. If you're looking to learn about the region's history, you can drive along the Wonnangatta Four-wheel Drive route, where you'll uncover the stories of the past while taking in rugged bushland and mountain views. For those keen on a challenge, the Razorback Ridge hike leads to Victoria’s second-highest peak, Mount Feathertop, offering some of the most spectacular views of the Great Dividing Range.

Adventurers can also take on the challenge of climbing Mount Bogong, the highest peak in Victoria, or explore the historic huts scattered across the Bogong High Plains, once home to legendary cattlemen. For a thrill of a different kind, white-water rafting trips on the Mitta Mitta River or skiing across the park’s varied terrain can help you experience the park’s wild side. Whether you prefer downhill runs or cross-country trails, the Alpine National Park offers some of the best ski touring opportunities in the state.

The park is also an important part of the Aboriginal cultural landscape, with traditional Country belonging to the Taungurung and Gunaikurnai Peoples.

Want to find the best trails in Alpine National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.

Explore nearby hikes

Photo gallery

Weather on the trail

Alpine National Park

The map below shows the rain forecast for the trail area. Tap the toggle in the top right corner to explore other layers including wind, temperature, UV index, thunderstorms, fire danger, and weather warnings — all useful for planning a safe hike.

Trail Reviews

5 Reviews on “Mount Feathertop: The Razorback Hike (22km)”

Overall rating

Darren Edwards Trail Author

One of the Vic Alps classics. Have hiked this route many times and it been different on every occasion. Loved doing this as an overnight hike with my two boys when they were 6 and 8 years old.

14/11/2024, 01:38

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Tammy Morgan

Better start with upping the hike training Di ??

24/03/2022, 05:22

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Darren Hocking

Maybe the grade is seasonal. More of a 4 in Winter… amazing mountain, to be respected.

24/03/2022, 05:22

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Acknowledgement of Country

Mount feathertop: the razorback hike (22km) trail hiking australia

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a glance

Technical details

Trail details

Hike summary

Overnight hike for kids

Track difficulty

Grade 4 (Hard)

Planning essentials

Map and GPX file

Safety and preparation

Planning this hike?

Let someone know

Free checklists

Getting there

Accommodation nearby

Discover more

About the region

Exploring Australia's Alpine National Park

Explore nearby hikes

Machinery & Diamantina Spurs Hike (35km)

Feathertop & Highplains Circuit Hike (47km)

Mount Loch Summit Hike (7km)

Derrick Hut via Mount Loch Hike (10km)

Photo gallery

Weather on the trail

Trail Reviews

5 Reviews on “Mount Feathertop: The Razorback Hike (22km)”

Leave a Review. Cancel reply

Notice something different about this trail?

Acknowledgement of Country

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

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