Overview
The first few months of the year in Melbourne can get hot and claustrophobic. So sometimes it's best to get out — even if it's just for a day. Hiking is an activity you can do with friends or on your own that gets you outside, in the sun and — better yet — it costs nothing. We spent the winter looking for the best spots so you could spend the summer exploring. Here are some long and short hikes for everyone — from the fitness enthusiast to the fair-weather walker.
THE EAST-WEST LOOP, YOU YANGS REGIONAL PARK
The You Yangs are located near Geelong, less than an hour's drive from Melbourne. There are plenty of easy walking tracks in the area with mostly gentle terrain. With splendid views of the surrounding countryside, it's a relaxing way to spend the afternoon. There's no need for hiking boots, the trails are fine for small children and families and there are plenty of great picnic spots to have lunch and take it easy. The East-West loop is a four-kilometre track that starts at the Turntable car park, offering varied terrain without too much of an incline.
THE MONOLITH AND PULPIT ROCK, MT BUFFALO
This is an easy 13.4-kilometre circuit showcasing the most picturesque landmarks and lookouts at Mt Buffalo. The area is striking in its beauty, although doesn't have the same sense of isolation as more difficult hikes in the area. This walk won't take longer than four hours, being of an easy grade with pleasant spots to stop and picnic along the way. There's even a vendor selling ice cream and coffee. The starting point, Lake Catani Campground, is about a 4.5-hour drive from Melbourne, but is a well serviced campsite with plenty of amenities.
MT STAPYLTON, THE GRAMPIANS NATIONAL PARK
The Grampians offers some of the best hiking in Victoria. Located a three-hour drive from Melbourne, the Mt Stapylton loop is 4.6 kilometres and takes just under three hours to complete. It is a hike of moderate difficulty that offers grand views and fun terrain. Starting at the Mount Zero Campground, follow the signs through ferns and low gullies, past looming cliff faces, to finish with a quick scramble to a spectacular outlook. This walk is challenging in some sections but easy if you have good balance and shoes that grip. I wouldn't recommend attempting this one after heavy rainfall.
MT STIRLING, MT BULLER
Mt Buller is better known for its skiing terrain, but in summer (especially during the shoulder season) it's a wonderful place to go hiking. From October to December (before the 4WD and mountain biking season begins) you have the entire mountain to yourself. Heading from the Mt Buller village, take the shared mountain bike track to Howqua gap and follow the signage to Mt Stirling. The walk is about 12 kilometre and takes four–five hours. On a sunny day, the summit is a perfect spot for lunch. This hike is for those with a reasonable level of fitness and hiking boots are recommended. Some of the uphill sections can be challenging, but are well worth the effort.
SOUTHERN CIRCUIT, CATHEDRAL RANGES
Only a two-hour drive from Melbourne, the Southern Circuit in the Cathedral Ranges is perfect for a day trip. This hike is not for beginners, with steep climbs and lots of rock scrambling. Sturdy hiking boots, agility and a head for heights are a must. This walk is 11 kilometres and takes three-four hours, starting and finishing at Cooks Mill Campground. The track takes you up to Sugarloaf Peak for spectacular views and back down along the Razorback. Make sure you pay attention to the trail markers as it's easy to get lost in this area.
CRAIG'S HUT, MT BULLER
Craig's Hut was originally built for the set of The Man From Snowy River. It was kept as a waystation for hikers and cross-country skiers. Over the years it has been rebuilt after bushfires and now stands as a landmark in the area. The walk from Telephone Box Junction to Craig's Hut is 21 kilometres and takes six hours, depending on your fitness. It is very steep and challenging in some place and takes a sandy, rocky 4WD track in others. This walk gets the heart pumping and the legs burning; the views are nothing short of breath-taking.
Images: Visit Victoria