HikesAustraliaMount Bogong (Staircase Spur)

Mount Bogong (Staircase Spur)

Victoria’s highest peak and its high plains, with historic cattlemen’s huts

Difficulty 4/5 · HardDayOut-and-backDay/overnight summit
Distance
~12 km return
Max elevation
1,986 m
Elevation gain
~1,300 m
Duration
7-9 h
iconichighest victoriaalpinewinter seriousday
A breathtaking landscape of Bishop and Clerk on Maria Island, Tasmania.

The route

The line through Victorian Alps, Australia - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.

Season & conditions

Best season

Nov-Apr (snow-free)

Weather risks

Alpine exposure; the summit plateau is dangerous in whiteout

Snow-free ~Nov-Apr; a serious winter whiteout/avalanche route otherwise. Confirm.

On the trail

Terrain & surface

A relentless forested spur to a broad alpine summit

Technical & exposure

Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally

Navigation & waymarking

Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally

Accessibility & group fit

Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics

Crowds & solitude

Moderate

Variants & turnaround

Eskdale Spur alternative; overnight at Cleve Cole Hut

Getting there & staying

Trailhead access

Mountain Creek (Staircase Spur), near Mt Beauty

Shuttle & transport

Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed

Huts, camping & refuges

Cleve Cole and Bivouac Huts (emergency shelter)

Gear, water & connectivity

Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies

Facilities

Services in Mount Beauty; limited or none on the trail

Guide & crew

Not required; self-guided

Permits & safety

Alpine NP; historic huts (emergency)

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Hazards

Whiteout navigation on the summit plateau (fatal in winter), exposure, the big climb

Emergency exits & rescue

Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote

This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.

Also in Australia

Walk Mount Bogong (Staircase Spur) with your group
Manta plans the route, the huts and the easy alternatives so a mixed crew all get a great day.
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