Wilsons Promontory Southern Circuit is a 42km, grade 3 hike located in Wilsons Promontory National Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 2-3 days to complete.
Hike overview
The Wilsons Prom Southern Circuit hike visits Wilsons Promontory Lightstation which was built in 1859 from local granite on a narrow peninsula jutting into the wild waters of Bass Strait. In the 1800s supplies were delivered to the lighthouse by ship every six months and there was no communication with the outside world. Families, often with children, had the lonely but vital task of keeping the light burning, saving both ships and lives.
It is recommended to complete this hike in three days due to the distance. It can however be completed in two days but you won't have a lot of time to stop and take in the views.
Telegraph Saddle to Telegraph Track junction, 6.1Km
Telegraph Track is followed south downhill. The descent is quite rapid and after 2.8km you will cross McAlister Creek and begin skirting the eastern side of large tea tree swamps. After a further 3.2km the trail junction is reached.
Telegraph Track junction to Little Waterloo Bay, 4.8km
From the Telegraph Track follow the track over sand dunes and swamps to Little Waterloo Bay. Turn right and walk along the beach in order to find the start of the track leading to the Light Station.
Little Waterloo Bay to Light Station, 9.2 km
This coastal track has great views through diverse plant communities. The lighthouse sits on a rocky finger of land that juts into the wild Bass Strait. Your only option for overnight here is to stay at the lighthouse. The cottages at the Wilsons Promontory Lighthouse sleep up to 12 and cost around $144 person depending on the season. More information and booking can be made here.
Telegraph Track junction via Oberon Bay to Tidal River, 21.4 km
Follow signs and management road to Telegraph Track junction then Oberon Bay. Continue to walk to Tidal River following the coast.
Route and GPX file
Max elevation: 303 m
Min elevation: 2 m
Total climbing: 1599 m
Total descent: -1795 m
Trail location
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Getting there
Wilsons Promontory National Park is approximately three hours drive from Melbourne. Follow the Monash Freeway (M1) to join the South Gippsland Freeway (M420/A440) to Meeniyan. Take the Meeniyan- Promontory Road (C444) to the Wilsons Promontory Entrance. Tidal River Visitor Centre is 30km south of the park entrance. There is no fuel at Tidal River. The closest fuel outlet is at Yanakie.
About the region
Welcome to Wilsons Prom, the southernmost tip of mainland Australia. Walk remote coastal bushland trails and swim at pristine beaches dominated by granite tors. Camp in comfort at family-friendly Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite. Either way, the local wombats, kangaroos and emus are waiting to meet you.
Swim at Norman Beach - just a few minutes' walk from Tidal River Campground, or go snorkelling for a unique underwater view of Victoria's largest marine national park. Bring the family and camp in comfort at Tidal River. Choose from powered or unpowered sites or stay in roofed accommodation.
Scale the granite peaks of Mount Bishop or Mount Oberon for panoramic views, or enjoy an overnight hike in The Prom. In the north there's a remote and rugged wilderness to explore, while the south is home to the historic Wilsons Promontory Lightstation and Sealers Cove.
Feel the sand between your toes at some of the more secluded beaches of Wilsons Prom, from Cotters Beach to Whisky Bay and Fairy Cove. Check out Big Drift, an impressive inland sand dune system, one of the Prom's well kept secrets. You can book a free all-terrain wheelchair, TrailRider or beach wheelchair to explore the great outdoors at Wilsons Promontory National Park.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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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.