Adventures in autumn - four awesome Victoria hiking trails

If the Covid-19 Virus is holding you back from venturing further afield from Melbourne, explore some of these awesome Victoria hiking trails.

Cope Hut to Pretty Valley

Drive about four hours north east of Melbourne to the Heathy Spur car park just past Falls Creek. This is an incredible place to start if you’re looking for an overnight hiking adventure. It’s a relatively easy trek to Cope Hut, where stunning views from the top of Alpine National Park await. There’s also a scenic trail that leads to the aptly named Pretty Valley, where you can camp overnight. Make your way back towards Falls the next day, or you could easily add on another few days of hiking along the Falls-Hotham Alpine Crossing.

Grampians Peaks trail (pictured)

It’s one of Victoria’s iconic long hikes in a stunning part of the countryside. This three-day/ two-night circuit leaves from Halls Gap and treats walkers to spectacular views of rugged mountains. Along the way, you can stop for the panorama from Pinnacle Lookout and discover the Grand Canyon’s ancient rock formations. The trail will require some skill but it’s bound to take your breath away.

Masons Falls Circuit

There's nothing like a walk with a waterfall view waiting at the end! It takes about four and a half hours to walk the Masons Falls Circuit. It’s also just a short drive along Melbourne’s northern fringe at Kinglake National Park. It involves walking south along the Sugarloaf Ridge track through forest, before passing the 570-metre summit of Mount Sugarloaf. You’ll admire the Melbourne skyline before continuing on through forest, where you’ll eventually find yourself on a viewing platform. The stunning falls are best viewed after recent rains.

Cape Schanck to Gunnamatta track

This 17km hike takes you to a stunning part of Victoria’s coast. Cape Schanck is an hour and a half drive from Melbourne’s CBD. It takes you through national park, the gorgeous coastal Moonah woodland and pristine beaches. There are three key lookouts along the way. Each offers incredible views of the coast. As with all hikes, make sure you bring adequate water and food.

BRIANNA PIAZZA