Howitt and the High Country (21.8km)

Length: 21.8km
Duration: 2 days
Grade: 4
Style: Circuit
Start: Upper Howqua
End: Upper Howqua

Location: Alpine National Park
Closest Town: Mansfield
Distance from CBD: 275km
State: VIC
Latitude: -37.1737058000
Longitude: 146.5620724000

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2WD Access

Gravel Road

Winding Road

Small Car Park

Untreated Water

Picnic Table

Camping Area

Campfire Pit

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2WD Access

4WD Access

Public Transport

Bitumen Road

Gravel Road

Steep Road

Winding Road

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Accessible Parking

Accessible Toilet

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Drinking Water

Untreated Water

Picnic Shelter

Picnic Table

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Campfire Pit

Camping Area

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Rough Trail

Alpine Region

Exposed Ledges

Rock Scrambling

Steep Terrain

River Crossings

Untreated Water

Scenic Viewpoints

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Gravel Path

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Concrete Path

Timber Boardwalk

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Mountain Bike Trail

Historic Rail Trail

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Urban Walk

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Alpine Region

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Exposed Ledges

Rock Scrambling

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Bush Bashing

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Trail Running

Horse Riding

Howitt and the High Country is a 21.8km, grade 4 Circuit hike located in Alpine National Park Victoria. The hike should take approximately 2 days to complete.

Summary

This spectacular Howitt and the High Country alpine hike visits both Mt Magdala and Mt Howitt traversing one of the best sections of the long-distance Australian Alps Walking Track. Helicopter Spur, the route used to reach the treeline, is one of the steepest and most challenging climbs in the region (YAY!) Except for Helicopter Spur this walk follows generally good walking trails and offers magnificent views across the heart of the Victorian Alps.

Getting there

From Mansfield follow the Mt Buller Road for 32km to Mirimbah. Turn left and continue up the Mount Stirling Road for 9km to Telephone Box Junction. Keep right on Circuit Road and continue over Howqua Gap to the Bindaree turnoff (60km from Mansfield). Follow Bindaree Road down to the Howqua Valley. Turn left and after 200m you will arrive at the Upper Howqua Camping Area.

Warning

This is a challenging hike that should not be underestimated. Helicopter Spur is steep and rocky requiring exposed scrambling in places. Some people may find that ropes will be useful. Some navigational experience is required.

Be Prepared

This hike requires that you have a sufficient level of equipment (in good working order), fitness and self-reliance. It is vital that you take personal responsibility for ensuring you are prepared! If you are not sure, contact the hike leader prior to the hike.

Total distance: 21837 m
Max elevation: 1733 m
Min elevation: 839 m
Total climbing: 1417 m
Total descent: -1418 m

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