The Monolith Circuit commences at Echo Point car park; the main day visitors area which provides vehicle access to The Gorge and the Mount Buffalo Chalet. At Echo Point there are numerous view points to explore before continuing. Don't miss the view from Bents Lookout of the sheer 300 metre cliffs of the North Wall of the Gorge and the Victorian Alps beyond. Locate the Monolith Walking Trail (also known as the Lake Catani Trail) in the south west corner of the car park. After a short distance you will reach a junction. Keep right and follow the signs to The Monolith. After approximately 1km keep right at the junction then left towards the Monolith; a giant balancing rock that towers above Lake Catani. A ladder once allowed you to climb it but has been removed for safety reasons. After appreciating the view retrace your steps to the main trail and turn left, following the trail through the forest towards the Mount Buffalo Road.
When you reach the road, near the park office, turn left and walk for approximately 500m along the road verge to reach the Lakeside Track. Take another left turn here to follow the path along the lake shore to a footbridge below the dam wall at the far end. Cross the bridge, turn left on to the View Point Nature Walk, the path that leads to the Underground River. After a short distance the trail begins to drop steeply into Haunted Gorge before crossing the river. As you are crossing the river, keep an eye out between the rocks and make sure you take a peek at the water rushing underneath you. This the entrance point to the Underground River. Do not attempt to enter the river caves as this is a place for experienced cavers only. Continue to head north as you climb out of the gorge then follow the trail through the forest to Billisons Lookout for more amazing views.
After leaving the lookout, continue north for approximately 300m back to Echo Point car park.
Total distance: 6432 m
Max elevation: 1406 m
Min elevation: 1281 m
Total climbing: 275 m
Total descent: -275 m
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The-Monolith-Circuit.gpx
Drive towards Bright via Hume Highway, Wangaratta and Myrtleford. Take the turn off to Mount Buffalo near Porepunkah. Drive up to the Buffalo plateau, turning left onto the road to the chalet and drive until you reach the Echo Point carpark on your left.
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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.
An all-seasons national park, Mount Buffalo has sheer cliffs, imposing granite tors, tumbling waterfalls, snow gums and stunning wildflowers. First reserved in 1898, the 31,000 hectare park contains vegetation and fauna adapted to extremes of weather, as a result of its sub-alpine location. As you drive and walk throughout the park, you will see evidence of the recent fires, but you will also see the vivid colours as species begin to regenerate. There is plenty of wildlife to see including Lyrebirds, Eastern Rosellas, Wombats and Swamp Wallabies. Many animals can be seen along the main tourist road so please drive carefully, especially at dawn and dusk.
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.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
3 Reviews on “The Monolith Circuit Hike (6.4km)”
Roz Bradley
Lauren Hayyes
Definitevely worth the hike