While this hike is rated as Grade 4 (Hard), this classification is primarily due to the length exceeding 20 km, which is a requirement for Grade 3 (Moderate) hikes. The difficulty is based on the length of the hike, not necessarily the terrain.
The Mount Ritchie Dugout Acheron Way Circuit is a challenging 35 km, Grade 4 hike located in Yarra Ranges National Park, Victoria. This hike typically takes 2 days to complete and follows a series of unnamed tracks and fire breaks on the mountain, with no official trail markings.
The hike begins along Acheron Way at Rd15 in East Warburton, gradually ascending approximately 600 meters to the summit of Mount Ritchie. The trail is well-established, with large clearings designed for fire and maintenance access.
As you approach the peak, you can find the Dugout 550 meters down an unmarked road, Dugout Road. Look for a small clearing to the left, where a few small white markers on top of the Dugout will help guide you. (If you have trouble locating the Dugout, it is accurately marked on Google Maps, and there is some mobile reception in the area.)
After reaching the summit, the trail descends along the northern side of the mountain, passing by a quarry before rejoining Acheron Way. The final third of the hike follows Acheron Way, a mostly asphalt road. Be cautious of approaching traffic, especially around the many blind corners; always step off the road to ensure your safety.
For a shorter alternative, consider the 16 km Mount Ritchie Hike.
Potential campsites
Several potential campsites were noted along Road 8 (RD8). While these clearings are roadside, they are spacious enough to pitch tents approximately 20 meters from the road for increased privacy. Abundant water sources, including small streams and waterfalls, were encountered throughout the hike.
- Snakes are a common sight in the area, watch your step and know what to do if bitten.
- Inconsistent mobile phone coverage.
- Trail Running
- Steep Terrain
- Untreated Water
Total distance: 36107 m
Max elevation: 1279 m
Min elevation: 474 m
Total climbing: 1885 m
Total descent: -1886 m
- 2WD Access
- Gravel Road
- Winding Road
- Untreated Water
Closest towns to this walk: Belgrave, Emerald, Healesville, Lilydale, Marysville, Monbulk, Montrose, Mount Dandenong, Olinda, Warburton
Getting to the trailhead in Yarra Ranges National Park.
Access to the trailhead is by car only. Drive from Warburton along Donna Buang Rd/C507 for approximately 25 minutes. The trailhead is located on the right-hand side, 18.3 km from Warburton. Please note that parking is limited to 3-5 cars. Search ‘Start Mount Ritchie walk’ on Google for additional directions and a map.
Situated between Melbourne and the Victorian Alps, the Yarra Ranges National Park is a place of epic views, majestic rainforest scenery and fun-packed snowplay. Enjoy the panorama from Mount Donna Buang, or go deeper into the park on the Black Spur Drive, and wind through towering Mountain Ash forests to Lake Mountain.
The Yarra Ranges spans an extensive, mountainous area of cool temperate forest around the three towns of Marysville, Healesville and Warburton. This national park is home to the world's tallest flowering tree, the Mountain Ash, which towers over lush tree ferns and mossy Myrtle Beech. Dark gullies are home to clear streams which feed the Yarra River and major reservoirs from which Melbourne draws its drinking water.
The Yarra Ranges boasts some stunning lookouts, one of the best being Mount Donna Buang. From here you can see awesome views of Westernport Bay and Port Phillip - or walk the Rainforest Gallery and see the Mountain Ash from a different perspective. In the winter, Mount Donna Buang is Melbourne's closest winter playground. Many Melburnians have enjoyed their first sight of snow here through the years.
Healesville is the start of the Black Spur Drive, a short but beautiful scenic car journey. The road winds through majestic Mountain Ash forest to Narbethong, passing a number of pleasant walking trails and picnic areas, such as Donnelly's Weir, Dom Dom Saddle and Maroondah Reservoir Park.
Looking for hikes and trails in Yarra Ranges National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar grade.
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Yarra Ranges National Park
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.
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.
