Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Explore the captivating Mount Timbertop with a 5.5km return hike of moderate difficulty (Grade 3). Savour the stunning views of the Mansfield and Merrijig valley, The Bluff, and the peaks of the Victorian Alps as you traverse through dry forest and open vegetation. Conquer the steep climb, relish the tranquility under the snow gums, and revel in the accomplishment of reaching the 1275m summit. Ideal for avid bushwalkers and nature lovers.

Length:

5.5km

Duration:

2.5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 1292m

Min elevation: 842m

Total Ascent: 622m

Start: Timbertop Saddle Carpark

End: Timbertop Saddle Carpark

Howqua Hills Historic Area

Victoria

Nearby town: Merrijig

From state capital: 224km

Latitude: -37.15371113

Longitude: 146.30424499511722

Overview

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4,336 views

Hike overview

This 5.5km return hike traverses the western side to the summit of Mount Timbertop through dry forest and then more open vegetation.This walking track is very steep with some obstacles and sections of indistinct track.

The ridge at the top provides extensive views over the Mansfield and Merrijig valley, The Bluff and numerous peaks of the Victorian Alps.

Enjoy a rest under the snow gums and take in the landscape. The track climbs some 425 metres from approximately 850m above sea level to 1275m the summit.

Tips

Great hike for families and kids if you don't mind a little rock scrambling in good weather.
Best done spring to autumn.

Contributed by Matthew Muscat

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Mount Timbertop Summit Walk (5.5km)

Total distance: 5314 m
Max elevation: 1292 m
Min elevation: 842 m
Total climbing: 622 m
Total descent: -576 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Howqua Hills Historic Area.

233km from Melbourne’s GPO via the Hume Highway and Mansfield. Gardiners Hut is accessed from the Gardiners Car park. NOTE: that this hut is locked unless you obtain the key first.

From Melbourne, follow the Hume Highway to the Tallarook turn-off and take the Upper Goulburn Road to the Goulburn Valley Highway, which leads you to Yea From Yea drive to Mansfield on the Maroondah Highway, then follow Mount Buller Road to approximately two kilometres past Merrijig before turning right on to the Howqua Track, (signposted Sheepyard Flat). Drive along the gravel road until reaching sign posted Mount Timbertop carpark.

Alternatively, take the Eastern Freeway and Maroondah Highway to Lilydale, then take the Melba Highway at Coldstream to Yea, follow the first description above after Yea.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Bonnie Doon, Eildon, Jamieson, Mansfield, Merrijig

Access conditions

2WD Access
Gravel Road
Winding Road
Small Car Park

About the region

Howqua Hills Historic Area is a site of natural beauty. Set in a secluded valley on the Howqua River it was once busy with gold miners. River flats are surrounded by hills with Manna Gums and NarrowLeaved Peppermints. Howqua Hills Historic Area is approximately one-hour drive from Mansfield and is a popular spot for picnics, horse riding, bushwalking, fishing and four-wheel driving. Start your visit to the park at the information shelter at Sheepyard Flat North, which gives fascinating information about the area.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Howqua Hills Historic Area? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Explore safe

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.

Packing checklists

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.

Let someone know

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

Reviews
Mount Timbertop Summit Walk (5.5km)

10 Reviews on “Mount Timbertop Summit Walk (5.5km)”

Overall rating

Rhiannon Riches

Vaughan Bowman

24/03/2022, 05:17

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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.

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.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Tips

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
Mount Timbertop Summit Walk (5.5km)