Wilderness Coast Walk (100km)

Escape civilisation on the ultimate long-distance walk through remote wilderness. The Wilderness Coast Walk stretches 100km along the far-eastern coast of Victoria. The Wilderness Coast Walk extends along the wild coast of far-east Gippsland. Trek isolated stretches of coastline, including the Sandpatch Wilderness Area, past the historic Point Hicks Lighthouse, secluded coves and through pristine landscapes teeming with native wildlife.

Start at Bemm River on the sandy shores of Croajingolong National Park. You can finish your trek at Mallacoota or extend your hike across the New South Wales border into Nadgee Nature Reserve. Explore isolated beaches, sand dunes and vast estuaries as you trek the rugged coastline. Be prepared for a true wilderness experience that will see you scrambling over rocky headlands and boulders, crossing river estuaries (which may require swimming), walking long stretches of sand, and hiking through thick vegetation on ill-defined paths. This walk is not for the faint-hearted.

Hikers need to be experienced and prepared for challenging conditions. The walk is divided into three zones and you will need experience and confidence navigating from topographic maps.

Advance bookings are required for camping along the walk. Groups are limited to eight people and a two-night maximum applies at remote campsites to protect the natural environment.

The section of the Wilderness Coast Walk east of Mallacoota must be booked through NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. Call the Merimbula office on (02) 6495 5000.

Bemm River to Clinton Rocks - 14km
Mainly beach walking. Entrance crossing may be required at Sydenham Inlet and Tamboon Inlet may need to be negotiated if open to the sea. Boat transport may need to be arranged, or low tide required to safely cross the inlet. There is a large section of rocks to negotiate at Clinton Rocks.
Camping: Tamboon Inlet, Clinton Rocks

Clinton Rocks to Thurra River - 14km
Mainly beach walking. Prior to Point Hicks, Sledge Track from West Beach will lead hikers to the lighthouse, or West Beach Track runs more directly towards the Thurra River campground. Be aware of vehicles between the lighthouse and campground.
Camping: Clinton Rocks, Thurra River

Thurra River to Wingan Inlet - 20km
Mainly beach walking with some rock crossing. Thurra River and Mueller River may need to be negotiated if open, this is best attempted at low tide. There is an inland track behind Rame Head. A track and boardwalk lead from the beach to Wingan Inlet campground.
Camping: Thurra River, Gale Hill, Wingan Inlet

Wingan Inlet to Benedore River - 14km
Entrance crossing is required at Wingan Inlet, boat transport may need to be arranged. Once across the inlet, Easby Walk Track starts at the totem pole, a few hundred meters from the sea. Turn right at the 'Easby Creek' sign and then follow the beach to Red River. Follow the track inland behind Sandpatch Pt to the steps then along the beach to Benedore River. Some rock crossing may be required if walking along the beach.
Camping: Wingan Inlet, Easby Creek, Red River crossing, Red River entrance

Benedore River to Mallacoota - 18km
Old Coast Rd walking track leads inland from Benedore River to Seal Creek, then onto Shipwreck Creek. Old Coast Rd continues from the campground and finishes at a car park on Centre Track. From here, follow Centre Track to Mallacoota. Be aware of vehicle traffic. It is also possible to follow the beach from Betka River to Bastion Point, then the Pittosporum Walk into Mallacoota.
Camping: Benedore River, Seal Creek, Shipwreck Creek, Mallacoota

Mallacoota to Nadgee, NSW - 20km
It is possible to continue hiking across the NSW border from Mallacoota township, past Cape Howe into the Nadgee Wilderness Area and through to Wonboyn township. A permit is also required to walk this section, available from the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Office at Merimbula, on (02) 6495 5000. The variety of landscapes along the coast is one of the many highlights of the walk: sand dune formations at Cape Howe, dramatic coastal cliffs, sea caves, coastal lagoons along with coastal heaths and woodlands.