Mount McDonald and The Nobs (19.8km)

Summary

The Mount McDonald and The Nobs hike summits Mt McDonald which lies at the heart of one of the wildest and least known regions deep within the Alpine National Park. Sandwiched between the remote Macalister and Jamieson Rivers, its rarely visited summit offers hikers a genuine sense of escape. The rugged north ridge provides a direct steep climb to the summit.

Mount MacDonald is a 1,402 m mountain peak near Mansfield, Victoria, Australia. Based on peakery data, it ranks as the 17th highest mountain in Victoria and the 82nd highest mountain in Australia. The nearest peaks are Mount Magdala, Mount Skene, Mount Buller, Mount Howitt, Mount Tamboritha, and Mount Cobbler.

Getting there

From Mansfield, continue along the Mount Buller Road for 19.5km to Merijig, then a further 2km to the Howqua Track turnoff on the right. Follow the unsealed Howqua Track for 16.5km to Sheepyard Flat. Continue through the flat and along Brocks Road (which becomes a bit rougher) for 19.5km to Eight Mile Gap. Turn right and descend the steep winding road to the banks of the Jamieson River. Continue a further 800m to park in the clearing next to the river, about 200m before reaching the Low Saddle Road turnoff.

Camping at Sheepyard Flat on the first night and heading to the start point will ensure you get an early start. Return to Sheepyard Flat on the last night to camp is you are feeling tired.

Be Prepared

This hike requires that you have a sufficient level of equipment (in good working order), fitness and self-reliance.