Mount Torbreck offers a rewarding hike through subalpine forest and granite-strewn ridgelines, with a sense of quiet remoteness that belies its accessibility. Located between Marysville and Eildon in Victoria, this 7.3-kilometre return walk takes around three hours to complete and is graded as a level 3 hike, making it suitable for reasonably fit walkers with some trail experience. At 1516 metres, Mount Torbreck is the westernmost of Victoria’s high country peaks above 1500 metres. Its slopes were once considered for development as a ski resort in the 1980s, though nothing more came of the idea than a solitary picnic table, still standing today as a curious reminder.
The walk begins on Barnewall Plains Road, a rough, unsealed track that starts behind a pair of seasonal gates designed to limit vehicle access in winter. From the trailhead, the first 1.5 kilometres follow the road gently uphill to a saddle, where the forest opens slightly and you’ll spot the old picnic table off to your left. Just to the right, a signpost marks the start of the walking trail to the summit.
From here, the track winds uphill, initially heading east, then turning south-east as it gains elevation. The climb becomes more noticeable where the forest begins to change, woollybutt giving way to snow gums as altitude increases. The track remains distinct for the most part, and orange metal markers nailed to tree trunks help keep you on course, even when snow covers the ground in colder months. Eventually, the trail skirts beneath large granite tors before topping out on Conn Ridge.
Beyond this point, the grade eases somewhat. The track turns north and continues climbing gently through open woodland scattered with boulders and hardy snow gums. As you near the summit, the trees thin out further and give way to an exposed summit plateau marked by a trig point and a sturdy rock cairn. On a clear day, you’re treated to broad views in every direction, rolling ridges blanketed in ash forest, the sprawling waters of Lake Eildon, and the rugged silhouettes of the higher alpine peaks near Mount Buller.
The return journey follows the same route back to the car. However, if time and energy permit, consider taking a short detour along the southern section of Conn Ridge. While it’s an off-track wander, the views from this ridge are some of the best in the area and offer a quieter, more reflective moment before descending. Whether you visit in summer with wildflowers underfoot or during winter when the snow gums are dusted in white, Mount Torbreck is a satisfying and atmospheric walk that rewards those who make the effort to explore it.
Camping
There is a large, flat, and open campsite located on Barnewall Plains Road at the start of the walking track. Keep in mind that Barnewall Plains Road is closed between the Queen’s Birthday weekend and Melbourne Cup weekend. If accessing the area via Conn Gap Road, a 4WD is required.
Weather Warning
Mount Torbreck can be climbed in winter by an experienced group. It’s uncommon to encounter more than light snow at the beginning of the walk, so driving up Conn Gap Road is usually manageable. From the Barnewall Plains picnic table, snow tends to deepen, but the orange arrows marking the route are still visible with care. The track is often traceable as a shallow indentation in the snow. On the return trip, take care to follow your own footprints back to ensure you stay on course.
The route to the summit is far too rocky for skis to be practical, and even snowshoes can be more hindrance than help. Most winters, it's possible to complete the walk in no more than knee-deep snow.
Some sections of this summary provided by David Sisson | www.australianmountains.com
Please don’t copy GPX files or content from this site to AllTrails or other platforms. Each trail has been personally mapped, documented, and refined to support Australia’s bushwalking and hiking community. While some details come from land managers, every listing reflects significant personal effort. This is a free, community-driven initiative—your respect helps keep it that way.
Total distance: 7294 m
Max elevation: 1510 m
Min elevation: 994 m
Total climbing: 616 m
Total descent: -615 m
Getting to the trailhead: Mount Torbreck Scenic Reserve.
From Melbourne, head towards Lilydale and continue on to Healesville via the Maroondah Highway (B360). Follow the highway over the Black Spur and on to the small town of Taggerty. Turn left onto the C515 and follow it to Thornton. From there, take the Goulburn Valley Highway (B340) towards Eildon. About 5 km before Eildon, you’ll reach the Snobs Creek pub (also known as the Eildon Holiday Resort Hotel). Turn right onto Snobs Creek Road and drive south for 14 km. The road is sealed at first, but the latter section becomes a well-maintained gravel surface.
At a regrowing logging coupe, turn left and drive 800 metres up Conn Gap Road. This road is rough, but it should be suitable for a 2WD vehicle if taken slowly and with care. Park at the junction just before the bridge.
Alternative access: It’s also possible to reach the start of the walk from the south, via Marysville and Cambarville, but the gravel roads in that area can be rough and slow-going. Access from the north via the Snobs Creek pub is generally faster and more reliable if you’re coming from Melbourne.
Another option is to approach from the Eildon–Jamieson Road by turning south-west onto Barnewall Plains Road, about 100 metres past the Jerusalem Creek Road junction. This route leads to a gate just north of the picnic table at the start of the walking track. However, the road is winding and not always well maintained. Note that Barnewall Plains Road is closed between the Queen’s Birthday weekend and Melbourne Cup weekend.
Closest towns to this walk: Coldstream, Healesville, Maroondah, Woori Yallock, Yarra Glen
- 2WD Access
- 4WD Access
- Bitumen Road
- Gravel Road
- Winding Road
- Speed Bumps
- Vehicle Ford
- Small Car Park
Mount Torbreck is a mountain (elevation 1516 metres) in Victoria, Australia 150 km from Melbourne. The mountain was listed as a place that could be declared as an alpine resort in The Alpine Resorts Act 1983, however no resort was ever developed on the site and it was recommended to be changed to a natural and scenic features reserve in 1994.
Looking for more walks in or near Mount Torbreck Scenic Reserve? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
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7 Reviews on “Mount Torbreck Hike (7.3km)”
Went here on 17/12/2018 in sunny weather conditions. Rough trail as it’s very steep at some points and there are many obstacles, mainly broken trees, on the path. We started at the picnic table and after 1,25 hours we found ourselves standing on the large boulders mesmerized by the view. First hike in years which made it a very tough trip up, however the view was definitely worth it!