Hike at a Glance
Max elevation: 1351m
Min elevation: 229m
Total Ascent: 1638m
Hike overview
The Constitution and Echo Point hike offers a rewarding and varied journey through Mount Buffalo National Park, stretching across 22 kilometres with an elevation profile that demands moderate fitness. This Grade 4 trail is typically completed in around seven hours, offering a quieter and more remote approach to Mount Buffalo than many of the park’s more frequented routes.
The walk begins just outside the township of Ovens, where you’ll join Nine Mile Track from Selzers Lane, near a cluster of hydroponic sheds. Though the track initially seems to pass through private land, it’s a public access road. As is always the case when walking near farmland, leave gates as you find them. The trail heads south, then curves southeast along an old fire road that climbs steadily through foothill forest. Early on, the wide track leads you gently upwards, gaining roughly 300 metres of elevation over the first four kilometres. The surrounding ridgeline gradually narrows, and you’ll find yourself walking between two valleys—Buffalo Valley stretching out to your left and the Ovens Valley unfolding on your right.
Around the eight-kilometre mark, the trail reaches The Constitution, a prominent rise along the ridge. Keep to the main road here, heading south. Several spurs lead away from this point, but the main route continues until it intersects with Mount Buffalo Tourist Road near a locked gate. Turn right and follow the bitumen for about 800 metres. Shortly after, the Rollasons Falls Track appears on your left—a 4-kilometre return walk if you're inclined to explore the falls. Another 100 metres along the road, you’ll encounter the start of The Big Walk, a well-known trail that climbs to the Mount Buffalo plateau.
The Big Walk is a highlight in its own right, renowned for its changing landscapes and ecological diversity. As you climb, you’ll pass through montane forest filled with towering Candlebark Gums and thick beds of Bracken Fern. Listen closely—Grey Fantails, Thornbills, and other native birds are often nearby. Keep an eye out for Swamp Wallabies slipping between the trees. The trail crosses the main road again before passing an old gravel pit. From there, a short detour leads to Mackeys Lookout, sitting at 920 metres above sea level, where clear skies open up to views of the distant Australian Alps.
Beyond this point, the environment shifts as the forest gives way to granite outcrops and slabs—hallmarks of Mount Buffalo’s unique geology. This section includes parts of the old Zig Zag track, the original route to the summit. The trail here can be slippery underfoot, particularly in damp weather, so tread carefully and follow the orange markers to stay on track. A brief side trip leads to Marriott’s Lookout, offering sweeping views into the Gorge and across to Queen Victoria Pinnacle.
As you gain altitude, you'll notice the flora change once again. Around the 1,150-metre contour, Alpine Ash takes over—often referred to as ‘Woollybutt’—with a dense understorey of native shrubs such as grevilleas and bush peas. At Manfields Junction, the trail reaches its highest point at 1,350 metres. From here, you might take short side trails to Manfields or Reeds Lookout, both offering remarkable perspectives of the surrounding ranges.
Returning to the main track, you’ll find yourself back on the final stretch of The Big Walk. There are two main options to finish the hike: continue straight or take the Gorge Heritage Walk loop, which adds a sense of history and context through interpretive signage. If you veer left at Wilkinson’s Lookout, you’ll be treated to one of the most dramatic views—peering down from the 330-metre North Wall. Climbers are often visible, dotting the sheer granite faces below.
Crystal Brook, which shaped the Gorge over millions of years, flows through this landscape and under the small bridge you'll cross. The track then meanders past the Oval Picnic Area and on towards the Gorge Day Visitor Area, where you’ll find amenities including toilets, picnic shelters, and a network of nearby walking tracks.
Although the iconic Mount Buffalo Chalet remains closed, the surrounds are still rich with lookout points. Bents Lookout and Echo Point are especially rewarding, offering panoramic views down into the valleys and out across the high country. From the lower carpark, other short walks head off toward the Underground River, the Monolith, and Lake Catani, where the campground offers an ideal spot to rest if you're extending your stay.
This hike blends quiet ridgelines, changing forest, and mountain vistas with moments of solitude and connection to place. It’s a route for those seeking both a physical challenge and a deeper experience of Mount Buffalo’s landscape—one that invites you to slow down, observe, and enjoy the unfolding beauty of the Victorian high country.
Tips
- Hikers should be reasonably fit and have strong footwear as the trail ascends over 1000 metres in just over 21km.
- Water and snacks should be carried along with a jacket as it is often cooler at the top.
- Stop and enjoy some rests along the way and admire the beauty of the bush.
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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: 1351 m
Min elevation: 229 m
Total climbing: 1638 m
Total descent: -536 m
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Mount Buffalo National Park.
To reach the trailhead from Melbourne, take the Hume Freeway (National Highway M31) northeast towards Wangaratta. Exit at Snow Road (C522) in Wangaratta South and follow this scenic route through the town of Myrtleford. Continue on C522 until you reach the small township of Ovens, then turn onto Selzers Lane. The hike begins near Selzer’s hydroponic sheds, where you can park your vehicle. As this is a point-to-point walk, you’ll also need to arrange transport from the finish, ideally leaving a second car at the Gorge Day Visitor Area in Mount Buffalo National Park. Alternatively, if you plan to camp overnight on the plateau, you can return via the same route the following day.
Closest towns to this walk: Beechworth, Bright, Eurobin, Harrietville, Myrtleford, Ovens, Porepunkah, Tawonga South, Wandiligong, Wangaratta
About the region
Tucked into Victoria’s High Country, Mount Buffalo National Park is a place of striking contrasts and quiet beauty. Granite cliffs rise from the landscape, softened by forests of snow gum and alpine ash. Waterfalls tumble into fern-lined creeks, while the crisp mountain air carries the scent of eucalyptus. This land holds deep cultural significance for the Taungurung Traditional Owners, whose connection to Country continues today.
More than 90 kilometres of marked walking tracks wind through this diverse terrain, offering everything from short strolls to longer, more remote hikes. You’ll pass through mossy gullies, open plateaus, and wildflower-filled meadows. It’s essential to stay on designated trails and carry a physical map, as phone signal can be unreliable and the alpine environment is sensitive to disturbance.
There are plenty of picnic areas to enjoy, whether you're after wide-open views or quiet, shaded corners. The Gorge Day Visitor Area and The Horn provide sweeping lookouts, while Eurobin Creek and Rollasons Falls offer easy access to gentle waterfalls. Grossmans Mill and the Oval are more secluded, and the Lakeside Day Visitor Area near Lake Catani is perfect for warm days, with picnic tables, toilets, shelters, barbecues, and space to swim or paddle a canoe.
Camping allows for a deeper connection to the landscape. Lake Catani Campground, open November to April, includes hot showers and toilets. In winter, campers can access it on foot or skis, with basic facilities available. For a quieter, more rugged experience, Rocky Creek and Mount McLeod campgrounds offer remote camping with minimal amenities—bookings are required and can be made online or by calling Parks Victoria on 13 1963.
Since its establishment in 1898, this 31,000-hectare park has protected unique subalpine ecosystems. Signs of past bushfires are still visible, but regrowth is underway, with vibrant new life emerging. Wildlife is abundant—keep an eye out for lyrebirds, wombats, and wallabies, especially near the road at dawn and dusk. Whether you're here for a few hours or a few days, Mount Buffalo has a way of leaving a lasting impression on those who take the time to explore its quiet trails.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Buffalo National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Track grade
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.
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.
8 Reviews on “The Constitution & Echo Point Hike (22km)”
Looks amazing.
Thats nice