The Great Ocean Walk (GOW) is a 100km, grade 4 hike located in the Great Otway National Park, Victoria. The hike should take around 8 days to complete.
Hike overview
The Great Ocean Road is famous for its scenic drives, but for adventurous souls, the real magic lies in exploring its breathtaking coastline on foot. Enter the The Great Ocean Walk, also known as the GOW, a challenging and rewarding trek that promises stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife encounters, and a true connection with the power of the ocean.
Starting 200 kilometers southwest of Melbourne, the Great Ocean Walk stretches roughly 100 kilometers from the charming town of Apollo Bay to Glenample Homestead near the iconic Twelve Apostles. This awe-inspiring journey takes you through the heart of the Great Otway National Park, where lush rainforests meet rugged cliffs and pristine beaches.
The Great Ocean Walk isn't just about the destination; it's about the incredible journey along the way. Hike past hidden coves and dramatic rock formations, encounter koalas basking in eucalyptus trees, spot whales breaching offshore during the winter months, and listen to the symphony of birdlife echoing through the valleys.
The Great Ocean Road hike offers varying levels of difficulty, catering to both seasoned hikers and adventurous beginners. The initial section from Apollo Bay to Cape Otway is relatively gentle, but the terrain becomes more challenging as you venture towards Ryans Den and the rugged coastline. Remember, some sections can be impassable at high tide, so plan your trek accordingly.
Whether you choose to complete the entire Great Ocean Walk in eight days or opt for shorter sections, planning is key. Register with Parks Victoria, book your campsite at designated intervals, and pack essential gear for unpredictable weather conditions. You can find detailed FAQs and a comprehensive guide at the Apollo Bay Visitor Information Centre.
For those seeking a comfortable adventure, numerous accommodation options lie near the Great Ocean Walk. Check out www.visitgreatoceanroad.org.au for details. Or, for a truly immersive experience, pitch your tent at one of the designated campsites and wake up to the sound of crashing waves.
The Great Ocean Road hike (The GOW) awaits, promising an unforgettable experience that will leave you breathless and invigorated. Lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and embark on this iconic coastal journey.
Hiker Camp Bookings
There are hike-in campsites at seven locations along the walk including Elliott Ridge, Blanket Bay, Cape Otway, Aire River, Johanna Beach, Ryans Den and Devils Kitchen. Each of the seven campgrounds has 8 campsites suitable for up to 3 people (1 x tent) per site. Book hiker camps.
Schools, Licensed Tour Operators and community groups
Small group camping areas are available at four of the seven campgrounds including Elliott Ridge, Blanket Bay, Cape Otway, Aire River. Each of the four locations has 6 campsites, suitable for up to 3 people (1 x tent) per site. Book small group camping.
Weather Condition Caution
You must be absolutely sure of tide, wave swell and river levels following high rainfall events on the walk. Visit the Bureau of Meteorology at www.bom.gov.au/marine/ to check severe weather event predictions. Beach, coastal walking and un-bridged river crossings should ONLY be attempted during low-tide, calm-sea and low water-level conditions. You may need to wait or turn back. www.bom.gov.au/marine/
Walking Distances
Starting Point | Finishing Point | Distance* | Approx Time^ | Grade |
Apollo Bay Visitor Centre | Elliot Ridge Campground | 10km | 3hrs 30mins | 3 (Moderate) |
Elliot Ridge Camp Ground | Blanket Bay Camp Ground | 12km | 4hrs 30mins | 2 (Easy) |
Blanket Bay Camp Ground | Cape Otway Campground | 11km | 3hrs 45mins | 2-3 (Easy to Moderate) |
Cape Otway Campground | Aire River Campground | 10km | 3hrs 15mins | 3 (Moderate) |
Aire River Campground | Johanna Beach Campground | 14km | 5hrs 15mins | 3 (Moderate) |
Johanna Beach Campground | Ryans Den Campground | 14km | 5hrs | 3-4 (Moderate to Hard) |
Ryans Den Campground | Devils Kitchen Campground | 13km | 5hr 15mins | 3-4 (Moderate to Hard) |
Devils Kitchen Campground | Twelve Apostles | 16km | 5hrs 15mins | 2-3 (Easy to Moderate) |
* Distances have been rounded up or down to nearest half kilometre.
^ Note that these times reflect a walking pace of around approximately 3 km per hour.
References
Route and GPX file
Main Trail
Max elevation: 276 m
Min elevation: 0 m
Total climbing: 3338 m
Total descent: -3284 m
With Sections on Beach
Max elevation: 276 m
Min elevation: 0 m
Total climbing: 3382 m
Total descent: -3329 m
Trail features
- Concrete Path
- Timber Boardwalk
- Gravel Path
- Sandy Trail
- Rough Trail
- Urban
- Beach & Coastal
- Lighthouse
- Waterfalls
- Rock Scrambling
- River Crossings
- Scenic Viewpoints
- Untreated Water
- Overnight Campsites
Trail location
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Getting there
Apollo Bay, the start of the Great Ocean Walk, is three hours' drive from Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road. If you have one vehicle it's recommended that you park at the Twelve Apostles Carpark and get shuttled back to Apollo Bay to start your walk. If you don't have a vehicle, you can go with a Licensed Tour Operator or use one of the shuttle services.
Here's a couple of recommendations: Walk 91: (03) 5237 1189 or Ride With Us: 0438 407 777. Alternatively, use public transport. The V/Line bus stops at the Twelve Apostles Carpark, Princetown and Apollo Bay.
About the region
The Great Otway National Park stretches from Torquay, along the world-famous Great Ocean Road and up through the Otways hinterland. Discover windswept coastlines and breathtaking waterfalls in tall mountain forests, walk the iconic Great Ocean Walk, immerse yourself in the Otway Lightstation's history, or surf some of the best breaks in Australia. Enjoy the great outdoors and explore the wonders of the Great Otway National Park.
The Great Otway National Park is in southern Victoria, Australia. It covers rugged coastland, beaches and the mountains of the Otway Ranges. Waterfalls dot the park, including the 3 cascades of Triplet Falls. Boardwalks lead through temperate rainforest at Maits Rest. The 1848 Cape Otway Lightstation perches on cliffs overlooking Bass Strait. Great Ocean Walk leads through the park to the Twelve Apostles rock formations.
Similar trails nearby
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Let someone know
Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.
Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.
3 Reviews on “The Great Ocean Walk (100km)”
Zara Fitzgerald Jessica Yuan
Thank you for letting me know. I have updated the page and have added a link to your website. Please let me know if any additional info needs updating. I love your site by the way. very clean, fresh and informative. Cheers, Darren