Jerusalem Creek Camp to The Pinnacle is a 23km, grade 4 return hike located in the Lake Eildon National Park, Victoria. The hike should take approximately 7hrs to complete.

Summary

The Pinnacle is a rarely climbed peak but is well worth a visit if you’re in the area. Despite its modest height (under 1000 metres), The Pinnacle has impressive views in all directions.

This hike commences at the Jerusalem Creek Day Visitor Area and heads south west as it follows Jerusalem Creek. After approximately 2.8km you will reach the junction of Gap Track. Follow this in a southerly direction as it gradually ascends towards White Cow Gap. Before reaching the Gap the trail turns east towards Knowles Gap.

Not long after passing through Knowles Gap you will reach the last stage of the ascent. This is the steepest and possibly most challenging section of the trail with an elevation gain of just over 300m in approximately 1.5km and a few rocky sections to navigate. At the top of The Pinnacle you will be rewarded with impressive views including a glimpse of Rocky Peak through a gap in the trees to the south.

From the Pinnacle retrace your steps back to the trail head.

About the Region

Lake Eildon National Park is in the northern foothills of Victoria’s Central Highlands, 150 km north-east of Melbourne. Situated on the shores of Lake Eildon, the park protects 27,750 ha of rugged hills with open woodlands through to dense forest. It is very scenic and offers the opportunity to experience an array of wildlife, natural and historic features and a wide range of recreational activities.

Jerusalem Creek Camp Area

There are a half-dozen designated camping areas at Jerusalem Creek, each with about 10 sites. These need to be pre-booked using the Parks Victoria website. Seasonal closure is in place for Jerusalem Creek Camping Areas 3 – 7 from the Thursday following Queens Birthday weekend to the Thursday before Cup weekend. The closure is for regeneration and maintenance purposes. Areas 1, 2 and 8 remain open for camping during this time.

Getting There

The trail head is 155km from Melbourne’s CBD on Jerusalem Inlet, 10 km south of the township of Eildon and reached by following Jerusalem Creek Rd. Once past all Jerusalem campsites a small vehicle ford (concrete base) must be crossed before parking at the Jerusalem Creek Day Visitor Area (space for about 4 cars), on the left.

Tips

• Pet lovers, note: this is the only camping spot in the national park in which dogs are permitted.

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