As the summer holidays continue, locals and visitors are being encouraged to lace up their boots and explore some of the most varied hiking terrain in Australia, right here in Gippsland.
From the granite peaks of Wilsons Promontory to the cool temperate rainforests of the Strzelecki Ranges and the rugged wilderness of the Far East, the region offers trails for every fitness level.
It’s recommended to start hiking early to beat the heat, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Here is a guide to the best walks the region has
to offer this January.
South Gippsland: The Prom and Coast
Best for: Coastal views, wildlife and
sandy tracks.
For those chasing iconic scenery, the Mount Oberon Summit at Wilsons Promontory remains the jewel in the crown.
The 6.8km return hike is a moderate to
hard uphill slog, but hikers are rewarded
with a 360-degree panorama over Tidal
River and the offshore islands that is arguably the best view in Victoria.
A pro-tip for summer: Tackle this one at sunrise or sunset to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
For a landscape that feels otherworldly, The Big Drift (4km return) offers extensive inland sand dunes that resemble a desert right near the park entrance.
Further west, the George Bass Coastal
Walk stretches 7km one-way from Kilcunda
to San Remo.
It offers spectacular cliff-top walking that
rivals the Great Ocean Road, without the
tourist congestion.
Central and West Gippsland:
Rainforests and Waterfalls
Best for: Cool climates, ferns, and towering trees.
If escaping the heat is the priority, the cool temperate rainforests of Central Gippsland are the place to be.
The Corrigan Suspension Bridge in Tarra-Bulga National Park is an easy 1.2km loop featuring a stunning bridge through the canopy, where temperatures are usually a few degrees cooler than the valley floor.
Near Noojee, the Toorongo Falls Circuit (2.2km loop) offers a lush green walk past two impressive waterfalls, while Mushroom Rocks in Baw Baw National Park takes hikers into the sub-alpine region.
This 3km return trek winds through Mountain Ash forest and snow gums to massive granite boulders, offering crisp air and unique geology.
East Gippsland: Lakes and Wilderness
Best for: River gorges, history and remote peaks.
The Den of Nargun loop (3.5km) in the Mitchell River National Park provides a striking contrast between dry forest and lush rainforest gully.
The walk descends to a cave holding significant cultural importance to the Gunaikurnai people.
For families, the Raymond Island Koala Walk at Paynesville is a must-do.
The easy 1.2km flat loop is accessed via the free ferry and almost guarantees sightings of wild koalas in the gum trees.
Those seeking a challenge near Mallacoota can tackle Genoa Peak.
The 3km return hike is moderate to hard, featuring steep ladders at the top, but offers a stunning perspective of the Croajingolong wilderness and the ocean.
Alternatively, the 90 Mile Beach Walk at
Lakes Entrance offers endless golden sands just across the footbridge.
Summer safety
Authorities are reminding all hikers to prioritize safety during the January period.
Snakes: Tiger snakes and Copperheads are active, especially near water and at the Prom. Stick to paths and make noise.
Fire Danger: Always check the VicEmergency app before heading into state forests or national parks. Never enter parks if the Fire Danger Rating is “Catastrophic.”
Water: It can get humid in rainforests and dry on the coast – always carry more water than you think you need.
