The Mount Feathertop - North Razorback hike is a 9 km, grade 4 walk through the Alpine National Park in Victoria, typically taking around 4 hours to complete. This hike leads to the summit of Mount Feathertop, the second highest peak in Victoria, renowned for its rugged beauty and distinctive, steep slopes. Unlike the rounded peaks typical of many nearby mountains, Feathertop rises sharply to its summit, offering a challenging but rewarding route. The mountain is connected to Mount Hotham by The Razorback, a narrow ridge that adds to the dramatic scenery. Mount Feathertop is a popular destination for both summer hiking and winter mountaineering, though caution is advised, as the area averages a death per decade, mainly due to accidents involving cornices in winter.
To reach the North Razorback trailhead, take the Mount Beauty Road (C536) off the Great Alpine Road (B500) south of Bright, near Germantown. Cross the Ovens River, then turn south onto Snowy Creek Track (also known as Dungey’s Track). If you're driving a 2WD, park at the end of the freehold land and walk the rest of the way. For 4WD or 'soft roader' vehicles, continue on the road, taking a right turn at each main junction, and ignore smaller logging tracks. This will lead you towards Stony Creek Tops. At Dungey Gap, you'll find a locked seasonal gate and a clearing that's been cleared of blackberry infestation. There's also a fire water tank nearby, though it’s unreliable for water supply during the summer months.
The road quality deteriorates past this point, so it’s best to walk the remaining 3.2 km unless you're driving a capable 4WD. From the end of the road, it's a 4.1 km hike to the summit along the North Razorback walking track. The track weaves over undulating ground for about 3 km, and as you approach the treeline, the path fades and becomes harder to follow. However, the route to the North Peak is marked and obvious. Once you rejoin the track, follow it along the summit ridge to the peak of Mount Feathertop.
It's important to note that older maps may show an overgrown walking track between the North Razorback and MUMC Hut. This track has not been maintained for decades, and the steep, scrubby terrain makes it easier to take the longer route over the summit. Similarly, maps may show a trail from the trout farm at the base of North West Spur to Stony Tops, but this track is no longer maintained since the 2006 fires and should not be relied upon.
For summer hikes, the trail from the 4WD roadhead to the summit is 9 km return, while in winter, when access is restricted, the hike from the seasonal gate is about 15 km return. For accurate navigation, the recommended map is the Mount Feathertop - Hotham 1:30,000, 2nd edition, published by Rooftop in 2009.
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Total distance: 8843 m
Max elevation: 1898 m
Min elevation: 1449 m
Total climbing: 621 m
Total descent: -621 m
Getting to the trailhead: Alpine National Park.
To reach the North Razorback trailhead, turn off the Great Alpine Road (B500) just south of Bright, at the Germantown junction onto Mount Beauty Road (C536). After crossing the Ovens River, take an immediate southward turn onto Snowy Creek Track, also known as Dungey’s Track. If you’re driving a low-clearance 2WD, it’s best to park at the end of the freehold land and walk from there. However, if you’re in a ‘soft roader’ or 4WD, continue driving south, turning right at every main road junction and avoiding any smaller logging tracks. This will lead you upwards to Stony Creek Tops, where the road ends and the trail begins.
Closest towns to this walk: Benalla, Bright, Dinner Plain, Falls Creek, Harrietville, Hotham Heights, Mansfield, Mitta Mitta, Mount Beauty, Mount Hotham, Myrtleford, Omeo, Porepunkah, Tawonga South, Wangaratta
Exploring Australia's Alpine National Park
The Alpine National Park offers a range of exciting outdoor activities that cater to all levels of adventure. Located in Victoria, this park is home to some of the state's highest mountain ranges, making it a popular destination for bushwalkers, hikers, and nature lovers. The park’s stunning landscapes are perfect for exploring on foot, on horseback, or even by mountain bike, with plenty of world-class trails to enjoy.
For a truly memorable experience, try the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing, which takes you across towering alpine ridgelines and through lush river valleys, all set against breathtaking alpine scenery. If you're looking to learn about the region's history, you can drive along the Wonnangatta Four-wheel Drive route, where you'll uncover the stories of the past while taking in rugged bushland and mountain views. For those keen on a challenge, the Razorback Ridge hike leads to Victoria’s second-highest peak, Mount Feathertop, offering some of the most spectacular views of the Great Dividing Range.
Adventurers can also take on the challenge of climbing Mount Bogong, the highest peak in Victoria, or explore the historic huts scattered across the Bogong High Plains, once home to legendary cattlemen. For a thrill of a different kind, white-water rafting trips on the Mitta Mitta River or skiing across the park’s varied terrain can help you experience the park’s wild side. Whether you prefer downhill runs or cross-country trails, the Alpine National Park offers some of the best ski touring opportunities in the state.
The park is also an important part of the Aboriginal cultural landscape, with traditional Country belonging to the Taungurung and Gunaikurnai Peoples.
Want to find the best trails in Alpine National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.
Looking for more walks in or near Alpine National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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Grade 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
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.
7 Reviews on “Mount Feathertop: North Razorback Hike (9km)”
Did this hike yesterday. Was the track less traveled so we enjoyed not seeing anyone else on the trail until we got to the summit. Amazing views! Trail was raw & quite exposed. The track wasn’t always visible in parts but was still easy enough to find your way following the ridge. A bit overgrown in parts so recommend gaiters. We had some strong winds hit us in one part before the final ascent to the summit which was a bit hairy for a while. We really enjoyed our day regardless of the endless black ants on us if we stood still too long. We went slow & soaked it all in, so it took us around 5hrs.
I did Feathertop solo in November 2015. Fantastic trek, can be very busy if you go on a long weekend.
Great camp sites!
I did the Razorback as a solo last November. There was still snow on the peaks. A wonderful experience with only my thoughts for company.
I hiked there 25 years ago
I’m keen man! Looks steeper than it is I reckon ?
Jamie Jamie
Mary Swoffer you organize it I’ll come.
Mick Sheedy
Juzee Celentane yeah me too.
Lachlan ‘Blinky Bill’ Gordon ? ⛺ï¸
Keeeeen!
Ja Cee
Jade Masters my next hike
James Goonan we should do this one too :)!
John Goonan we had to do some of this when I was at school. Still remember the bruises from the packs. Not sure how far we went, but it was over night
Karen Kost- we will get there one day!!
Luke Fisher
Meaghan bucket list
Nice walk and quickest/shortest access to Feathertop if you have a 4WD. just back from this walk and National Parks staff have done a good job of recently clearing the initial path that was overgrown as you commence walking on the trail. Now an easy obvious route through the scrub before you exit the treeline.
Brendan Gillet
Can’t wait to be able to pull the hiking boots on again and get out there.
Pretty snow covered right now… plan ahead for summer.
Ryan Nichols lets do this over summer
Glen Mywee
Rebecca Sheree, Anita I’ve not been up this side. Shall we do a day trip over coming months?