Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Experience the rugged beauty of Wilsons Promontory National Park with the 10.5 km Tongue Point, Darby River, and Saddle hike. This Grade 4 trail offers breathtaking views of coastal landscapes, Darby Swamp, Vereker Range, and the unique granite formations of Tongue Point. Be prepared for a challenging ascent through heathland and a descent through stringybark and casuarina forest. Don't forget to check the tides before visiting the secluded Fairy Cove.

Length:

10.5km

Duration:

4 hrs

Grade:

Style:

One Way

Max elevation: 271m

Min elevation: 6m

Total Ascent: 612m

Start: Darby River carpark

End: Darby River carpark

Wilsons Promontory National Park

Victoria

Nearby town: Tidal River

From state capital: 213km

Latitude: -38.97556667

Longitude: 146.2765458226204

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Hike overview

The Tongue Point, Darby River, and Saddle hike is a 10.5 km, grade 4 hike in Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria. This hike, which typically takes 4 hours to complete, combines two return routes: Darby River to Tongue Point and Darby Saddle to Tongue Point, allowing you to fully experience the stunning coastal landscapes of the area. The hike can be completed in either direction, though a car shuttle will need to be arranged.

Starting from the southern end of the Darby River carpark, the trail follows the Darby River to Tongue Point Track. This section offers magnificent views of Darby Swamp, Vereker Range, and the beaches of Darby and Cotters. The path gently climbs through wind-swept coastal vegetation before following the headland towards Tongue Point, a coastal landmark adorned with weathered granite formations. The track ends before reaching the semi-detached island; for safety reasons, do not attempt to cross to it. Just before the junction with the Darby Saddle Track, a short side path with steps leads down to the secluded Fairy Cove. It is important to check tides before visiting the cove.

After exploring this area, retrace your steps to the junction with the Darby Saddle Track and continue towards Tongue Point. This headland is characterised by its tumbled stacks and boulders of weathered granite, with the track ending before the semi-attached island, which should not be crossed.

The section from Tongue Point to Darby Saddle offers spectacular coastal and forest scenery. The trail ascends steeply through low heathland, passing Lookout Rocks, where you can enjoy views across to Norman Island. Approximately 7.8 km into the hike, a short side track leads to Sparkes Lookout, offering expansive views, including the pyramid-shaped Rodondo Island to the south and Shallow Inlet to the north. From here, the track descends through stringybark and casuarina forest to Darby Saddle, marking the end of the hike.

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Walk map and GPX file

Tongue Point, Darby River & Saddle Hike (10.5km)

Total distance: 10527 m
Max elevation: 271 m
Min elevation: 6 m
Total climbing: 612 m
Total descent: -465 m

Getting there

Closest towns to this walk: Fish Creek, Foster, Inverloch, Meeniyan, Port Albert, Port Welshpool, Sandy Point, Tarra Valley, Tarwin Lower, Tidal River, Yanakie

Getting to the trailhead in Wilsons Promontory National Park.

Wilsons Promontory National Park is about a three-hour drive from Melbourne. To reach the park, take the Monash Freeway (M1), then continue on the South Gippsland Freeway (M420/A440) to Meeniyan. From there, follow the Meeniyan-Promontory Road (C444) to the park entrance. Once inside the park, it’s a 30-minute drive to Tidal River. Be mindful of wildlife while driving, especially between dusk and dawn. The nearest fuel and electric vehicle charging station is located at Yanakie. Drive to C444 in Wilsons Promontory and park at the Darby River carpark, just past the Anakie Airfield turnoff.

Get there with Google Maps

About the region

Discover the walking trails of Wilsons Promontory National Park. Wilsons Promontory National Park, located at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia, offers a variety of walks, bushwalks, and hikes that showcase the area's stunning landscapes. Situated near the town of Foster in Victoria, Wilsons Prom is approximately three hours' drive from Melbourne, the state's capital city.

Visitors can explore remote coastal bushland trails and relax on pristine beaches, all while being surrounded by the park's signature granite tors. Whether you choose to camp at the family-friendly Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite, encounters with the local wildlife, including wombats, kangaroos, and emus, are common.

Norman Beach, just a short walk from the Tidal River Campground, is perfect for swimming or snorkelling, offering a unique view of Victoria's largest marine national park. Families can enjoy a comfortable stay at Tidal River, with options ranging from powered or unpowered campsites to roofed accommodation.

For those seeking more challenging hikes, the granite peaks of Mount Oberon provide breathtaking panoramic views over the sea, especially at sunset. Mount Bishop offers an excellent alternative, with a summit accessible from the Lilly Pilly car park or via the Lilly Pilly Circuit walk. The summit rewards hikers with views of the Prom's western coastline and offshore islands. For a broader perspective of the National Park, consider the lesser-known Vereker Outlook.

Adventure seekers can take on an overnight hike through The Prom, exploring the remote and rugged northern regions or heading south to visit the historic Wilsons Promontory Lightstation and Sealers Cove. For a more tranquil experience, enjoy the secluded beaches of Wilsons Prom, such as Cotters Beach, Whisky Bay, and Fairy Cove. Accessible options, including all-terrain wheelchairs, TrailRiders, and beach wheelchairs, are available to ensure everyone can enjoy the park's natural beauty.

When visiting the beaches and coastal areas, it's important to be aware of natural hazards. To ensure a safe and enjoyable day at Wilsons Promontory National Park, please follow the recommended water safety guidelines.

Want to find the best trails in Wilsons Promontory National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for hikes and trails in Wilsons Promontory National Park or nearby? Try these walks with a similar 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

Reviews

Tongue Point, Darby River & Saddle Hike (10.5km)

7 Reviews on “Tongue Point, Darby River & Saddle Hike (10.5km)”

Overall rating

Margaret Luckhurst

It’s a great walk. If it’s warm have a swim at Fairy Cove. It’s beautiful

29/07/2024, 21:22

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1. Trail Hiking Australia
  
  Margaret Luckhurst brrr. The thought of swimming right now. Totally agree, it’s a great spot for a dip when the weather is a tad warmer. 🙂
  
  29/07/2024, 22:34
  
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Trail Hiking Australia

This is a great hike if you are at the Prom. Can do a shorter variation of it too by returning to the trailhead rather than a car shuffle

25/07/2024, 22:08

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Jods Newton

Scott Timson

24/03/2022, 05:22

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Acknowledgement of Country

Tongue point, darby river & saddle hike (10. 5km)

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.

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file

Tongue Point, Darby River & Saddle Hike (10.5km)