Explore a unique landscape of soaring sand dunes towering above the Thurra River. The walk begins at the Thurra River Campground near campsite 14 and winds through coastal banksias and heathland before opening out into a network of sandy trails through the dunes. There are no walking track markers once on the dune fields due to the constantly shifting sands, so take careful note of your return route.
- Bring a pair of sandals to wear on the sand dunes so that your hiking shoes don't get filled with sand.
- There are lots of areas to explore once you reach the sand dunes.
- There is no mobile reception in this area, apart from some patches along the trail getting there.
Contributed by Eisak Tabensky
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.
Total distance: 4575 m
Max elevation: 86 m
Min elevation: 11 m
Total climbing: 144 m
Total descent: -144 m
Content use
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.
Gallery
Got any photos from this hike? Your photos can help others plan. Share shots from along the trail so fellow hikers know what to expect.
Click to add your photos >>
Getting there
Getting to the trailhead: Croajingolong National Park.
Follow M1 to Newborough. Take the exit towards Moe/Newborough/Yallourn Nth onto C103 from the M1. Follow C103 and Cairnbrook Rd and get onto the Princes Hwy/A1 in Rosedale. Continue on the Princes Highway until Cann River. At Cann River, turn onto Tamboon Road and then onto Point Hicks Road.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
About the region
The Croajingolong National Park is a coastal national park in the East Gippsland region of the Australian state of Victoria. The 88,355-hectare national park is situated approximately 450 kilometres east of Melbourne and 500 kilometres south of Sydney.
Let someone know
Heading out? Fill in a trip intentions form so someone knows your plans. If things go wrong, they can raise the alarm fast, giving you peace of mind on the trail.
Similar walks nearby
Looking for more walks in or near Croajingolong National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
Favourite
Croajingolong National Park
Favourite
Favourite
Beowa (Ben Boyd) National Park
Favourite
Beowa (Ben Boyd) National Park
Suggest an edit
Notice something different about this trail? Whether it’s a new feature, a route change, or a closure, share your update so we can keep our info accurate and helpful for fellow hikers.
Click to suggest edits >>
Explore safe
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.
Packing checklists
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.