Explore Australia’s historic homesteads
1-Day Itinerary: Exploring Cattleman’s Huts in Victoria’s High Country
7:30 AM – Depart Mount Beauty
Begin your day early by driving from Mount Beauty towards the Bogong High Plains, following the Bogong High Plains Road. The drive is scenic and will take approximately 1 hour, offering views of the rugged alpine landscape.
8:30 AM – Arrive at Wallaces Hut
Your first stop is Wallaces Hut, the oldest surviving cattleman’s hut in the area, built in 1889. Take time to explore the hut and its surrounding area.
This is a short 750-meter return walk on graded paths (about 20 minutes), perfect for an early morning stretch.
9:15 AM – Cope Hut
A short 10-minute drive from Wallaces Hut, Cope Hut is your next destination. Known as the “Mansions” of the High Plains, Cope Hut was built in 1929 and served as accommodation for tourists. The walk from the parking area is about 800 meters return, taking around 20 minutes.
10:00 AM – Hike to Ryders Hut
Drive another 15 minutes towards the Langford Gap area. From there, embark on a longer walk to Ryders Hut. The round trip walk is approximately 7.5 km and will take about 2.5 hours, including time to explore the hut and enjoy the views along the trail. The terrain is mostly flat, offering sweeping alpine vistas.
12:30 PM – Picnic at Langford Gap
After the walk to Ryders Hut, return to Langford Gap for a picnic lunch. There are stunning views of the Bogong High Plains, making it an ideal spot to relax and refuel. Bring along some local cheeses, fresh fruit, and sandwiches to enjoy.
1:30 PM – Visit Pretty Valley Hut
After lunch, drive about 15 minutes to Pretty Valley Hut, a small but picturesque cattleman’s hut in an alpine setting. The walk to the hut is less than 200 meters from the car park, and the surrounding area is perfect for a short stroll and photo opportunities.
2:00 PM – Walk to Tawonga Huts
A final 3.5 km return walk (about 1.5 hours) takes you from Pretty Valley to the Tawonga Huts. These huts were originally built by cattlemen and are now popular with hikers for overnight camping. Enjoy the alpine meadows and the serenity of the high plains.
4:00 PM – Return to Mount Beauty
Begin your scenic drive back to Mount Beauty, arriving around 5:00 PM.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at Mountain Monk Brewery, relax in the sunny beer garden and take in local High Country hospitality.
1 Lakeside Ave, Mount Beauty VIC 3699
Make a stay of it
Enjoy more of Mount Beauty and Victoria’s country across the weekend. Stay the weekend and check out places such as Beechworth, Bright, and Harrietville, see local weekend markets, wineries and craft breweries, or relax at a local cafe.
Packing List
Essentials:
• Daypack (comfortable and weatherproof)
• Water (at least 2 liters per person)
• Snacks and Picnic Lunch (sandwiches, fruit, trail mix, etc.)
• Sunscreen (high SPF, even in cooler weather)
• Hat (sun protection)
• Sunglasses (UV protection)
• Portable First Aid Kit (band-aids, antiseptic, any personal medications)
• Mobile Phone (with portable charger)
What to wear:
• Hiking Boots (comfortable and waterproof if possible)
• Lightweight, breathable clothing (layered for changing weather)
• Warm Jacket (alpine weather can change quickly)
• Rain Jacket/Poncho (waterproof and windproof)
• Beanie or Gloves (for cooler conditions, especially in the morning)
• Socks (preferably moisture-wicking)
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