Mount Stirling Craigs Hut Loop Hike (20km)

The Mount Stirling Craigs Hut Loop is a 20 km, grade 4 hike in Alpine National Park, Victoria, and usually takes around eight hours to complete. It is a rewarding circuit that combines varied alpine terrain, historic huts, and a strong sense of place, making it a popular choice for experienced walkers looking for a full day on the track.

The walk begins near Telephone Box Junction on Mount Stirling and follows a broad loop around the resort area, with a memorable return section via the iconic Craigs Hut. Along the way, the route passes several well known huts, including Bluff Spur Hut, Geelong Grammar School Hut, and the Cricket Pitch, each adding character and a sense of history to the journey.

From Telephone Box Junction, follow the upper right section of Circuit Road before turning left onto Baldy Loop and then right onto Bluff Spur Trail, which climbs steadily to Bluff Spur Hut. Beyond the hut, continue through the trail intersection, keeping the South Summit Trail to your right and West Summit Road to your left. At the Howqua Gap Track, turn left and follow the unsealed road as it skirts below the Stirling summit.

A short but steep side trip leads to the 1749 metre summit of Mount Stirling and is well worth the effort for those with the time and energy. After returning to the main route, continue west along Clear Hills Track, passing through Monument Saddle and by The Monument before heading north east to reach Craigs Hut. This well known high country hut is a highlight of the walk and a great place to pause before the return leg.

Leaving Craigs Hut, retrace your steps along Clear Hills Track back towards Mount Stirling and the junction with Stirling Trail. Turn left through the gate to reach GGS Hut, then continue along Stirling Trail to the intersection with King Saddle East Road and Circuit Road. A final left turn onto Circuit Road brings you back to Telephone Box Junction, completing a varied and satisfying alpine circuit.