The Mount Feathertop - The Razorback hike summits Mount Feathertop, the second highest mountain in Victoria and one of the most picturesque peaks in the state. It is linked to the nearby Mount Hotham ski resort by The Razorback, a high narrow ridge, but otherwise surrounded by steep slopes which continue right to the summit. Unlike most nearby mountains, Mount Feathertop has steep slopes right to the top and does not have the rounded summit dome that is typical of many nearby peaks.
Mount Feathertop is probably the most appealing peak in the high country. It provides terrific hiking in summer and in winter it is a great venue for mountaineering and extreme skiing. But be careful, as it averages a death per decade. Most deaths are in winter and most come from not treating cornices with the respect they deserve.
Overnight hike for kids
This makes an excellent overnight hike for kids as is is not overly challenging and will give them a taste of the Victorian Alps. While there are a few steep sections, they are not long. Federation Hut (the overnight camp), has a wood fire and water tank, and there are plenty of great campsites outside - no camping is allowed inside the hut. There is also a composting toilet nearby.
Maps
The most useful and accurate map is Mount Feathertop - Hotham 1:30,000. 2nd edition. Rooftop, 2009.
Access and Trail Notes
The Razorback Walking Track beings at Diamantina Hut, 2.5 km on the Harrietville side of the Hotham Village. It crosses the high ridge linking Mount Hotham and Mount Feathertop. The route is generally above the tree line so you will enjoy excellent views most of the way. The ridge is very exposed and should be not be crossed in unsettled or bad weather. The junction with the Bungalow Spur Track is 1.5 km from the summit at a site called The Cross. The final climb to the top is steep but well worth the effort. Return by the same route or, if you have made suitable transport arrangements, walk down to Harrietville via the Bungalow Spur Tack.
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.
- Rough Trail
- Alpine Region
- Alpine Huts
- Exposed Ledges
- Steep Terrain
- Scenic Viewpoints
- Untreated Water
- Overnight Campsites
Total distance: 22027 m
Max elevation: 1898 m
Min elevation: 1608 m
Total climbing: 942 m
Total descent: -942 m
Download
No Records Found
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Maps failed to load
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
- 2WD Access
- Bitumen Road
- Steep Road
- Winding Road
- Public Toilets
The Alpine National Park is a national park in the Central Highlands and Alpine regions of Victoria, Australia. The 646,000-hectare national park is located northeast of Melbourne. It is the largest National Park in Victoria, and covers much of the higher areas of the Great Dividing Range in Victoria, including Victoria's highest point, Mount Bogong at 1,986 metres and the associated subalpine woodland and grassland of the Bogong High Plains. The park's north-eastern boundary is along the border with New South Wales, where it abuts the Kosciuszko National Park.
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
Favourite
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.
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.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? 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
Trail changed? New features discovered? Has the route changed? Trail permanently closed? Help fellow hikers by suggesting edits! Click above to update route descriptions, GPX file, trail features (like boardwalks), or access conditions (like parking availability). Help me keep the trails info fresh!
3 Reviews on “Mount Feathertop: The Razorback Hike (22km)”
Better start with upping the hike training Di ??
Maybe the grade is seasonal. More of a 4 in Winter… amazing mountain, to be respected.
Glenn Shaw
Did this hike last week! Still a little snow on Feathertop
Suzie Sharp, Joelene Gordon-Cooke would you do this one? Although there’ll be no cutting open of hands this time pkease Joelene ?
Geoff Murray loved this hike – brilliant!
Rebecca Fogarty?
Such an awesome track! I would rate it an absolutely must do 5/5.