Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 481m
Min elevation: 202m
Total Ascent: 493m
Hike overview
The Salisbury Falls Friends Track in Warby-Ovens National Park, near Wangaratta, offers a scenic and moderately challenging (grade 3) hike. The diverse trail boasts sightings of wildlife ranging from wedge-tailed eagles to echidnas, with iconic grass trees scattered along the way. Compared to nearby Mount Glenrowan, this track provides a richer ecological experience.
Begin by following the Salisbury Walk track uphill. Initial signage may warn of a steep path, but for experienced bushwalkers, the climb is manageable. Early on, a side track leads to Salisbury Falls, though water flow depends on recent rainfall. As you ascend the gully, you'll be rewarded with views stretching across the plains towards Mount Buffalo. Once the gully opens into flatter terrain, follow the creek for a while before branching off to join the loop section of the trail.
Here, you can choose your direction. This description follows a clockwise route. Be aware that mountain bikers share sections of the track in the opposite direction, so you'll likely see them approaching rather than surprising you from behind. The bikers are generally courteous and infrequent, so they shouldn't deter you from enjoying the trail.
Approximately 200 meters after joining the loop, a smaller path marked by a broken signpost heads right. Take this gently rising path to the stone cairn at the summit of Mount Warby. Two paths diverge here. Stay relatively straight (or take the leftmost path, again marked by a broken sign).
Shortly after, you'll approach a fence and road. Turn right and follow the road for 200 meters. Toilets and a campground are located here. The Friends Track you seek begins to the left of the carpark exit. It branches off shortly afterwards - stay right, and the path will descend near another small creek. The track branches again; take the right fork, crossing a small bridge to reach the opposite side of the creek.
The trail now winds back around the hill, crossing a few service tracks. At one such crossing, a sign points straight ahead on the Friends Track towards Wenhams Camp (50 minutes). A worthwhile detour exists here: head left down the service track for 500 meters to reach Kwat Kwat Lookout, offering the most expansive uninterrupted view of the plains, hills, and Wangaratta.
After rejoining the Friends Track, the path follows a gully with stands of grass trees before a slight climb and another fork. Here, deviate from the Friends Track and take the Alpine Views Track to the left. During spring, this section might be adorned with wildflowers. Eventually, the trail descends to a wider service track. Turn right, following the signpost for Alpine Views with a right-pointing arrow. This section leads you back to the completion of the loop, where you should turn left and retrace your steps back to the carpark (signposted).
Tips
- The path is well formed, but many signposts are broken.
- Orange triangles on trees point much of the way.
- A map and notes, the gpx file or just good instincts will keep you on track.
- It's not a deep wilderness area and despite talk of tracks branching off it's easy to follow.
- As suggested in the notes, I recommend a clockwise trip on the loop section.
Gallery
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Content use
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Walk map and GPX file
Max elevation: 481 m
Min elevation: 202 m
Total climbing: 493 m
Total descent: -494 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Warby-Ovens National Park.
The Salisbury Falls Carpark, your starting point for the hike, is conveniently located just 8 kilometers from Wangaratta town center. Follow Shanley Road until its very end. You’ll reach a small turning circle where you can park your car on the side of the road.
Closest towns to this walk: Benalla, Cheshunt, Chiltern, Everton, Glenrowan, Greta, Milawa, Moyhu, Myrrhee, Oxley, Peechelba, Rutherglen, Tarrawingee, Wangaratta, Whitfield, Yarrawonga
About the region
The Warby-Ovens National Park, situated near Wangaratta in Victoria, holds a deep significance for the Yorta Yorta Peoples, the traditional owners of this land. This diverse park offers a haven for nature enthusiasts. Whether you seek breathtaking views, invigorating walks and bike rides, peaceful canoeing on the Ovens River, or simply a chance to unwind at a campsite amidst native wildlife, Warby-Ovens National Park caters to all.
The park encompasses three distinct ecosystems. The heritage-listed lower Ovens River boasts majestic River Red Gum forests, one of the most intact floodplain ecosystems in northern Victoria thanks to the unregulated nature of the river. The Killawarra Forest features a box-ironbark woodland, particularly important for threatened birdlife like the Swift Parrot, Hooded Robin, and Speckled Warbler. The Warby Range offers a scenic blend of grassy woodlands and granite outcrops, coming alive with wildflowers in spring and providing access to spectacular lookouts.
A mere 10 kilometres from Wangaratta, the park is perfect for a day trip. Enjoy walks, picnics, birdwatching, cycling, or a scenic drive. Take in the exceptional views, especially during winter when the distant peaks are dusted with snow, from Ryan's Lookout and Kwat Kwat Lookout.
Explore the walking tracks that weave through the Warby Range and Killawarra Forest, immersing yourself in the park's diverse birdlife and spring wildflowers. Alternatively, relax by the river with a picnic or fire.
For a longer stay, pitch your tent and spend a few days camping, hiking, or birdwatching. The Ovens River is a haven for canoeing, offering calm waters suitable for paddlers of all experience levels.
Keep an eye out for Black Wallabies or Eastern Grey Kangaroos as you navigate the tracks. Wildlife spotting is generally best at dawn and dusk. With a keen eye, you might even catch a glimpse of a vibrant Turquoise Parrot, a Koala, or a Lace Monitor.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Warby-Ovens National Park? 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
Suggest an edit
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.
9 Reviews on “Salisbury Falls Friends Track (14km)”
Beautiful start to winter and my first hike in many years. Loved every moment of it.