Shorter Family Walks:
Tunnel Bend – 200m one-way
Escape the heat on a hot day and walk through the tunnel at Tunnel Bend. Don't forget your torch!
Howqua Hills Heritage Walk – 4km return, 1.5 hours – Grade 3
An easy self-guided 1.5-hour return walk between Sheepyard Flat and Frys Flat, following the Howqua River. This walk takes visitors past the old brick chimney and smelting furnace built in 1884.
Moderate Walks:
Just a short drive from your base at Howqua Hills Historic Area, there are many great moderate walks in the nearby Alpine National Park. More great family walks can also be found in the nearby Strathbogie and Mansfield State Forests.
High Track (Howqua Hills Historic Area into Alpine National Park)
The High Track runs above and parallel to Brock's Road and provides access to many of the flats along the Howqua River. This spectacular track continues all the way into the Alpine National Park and provides great views of the Howqua River and the surrounding landscape. Tackle the whole track or complete shorter sections.
8 Mile Gap to Eagles Peaks (Alpine National Park) – 4km return
A moderate day walk with breathtaking views across the Alpine National Park. For the adventurous, starting instead from Davon's Flat. This is a very challenging 22km return walk.
Bluff walks (Alpine National Park)
Bluff car park to Bluff Summit – 4km return – Grade 4
Bluff Hut to Bluff Summit – 7.2km return – Grade 4
Bluff car park to Bluff Hut – 11.2 km return – Grade 4
There are two ways to access the Bluff. The first is an easier family walk starting from Bluff Hut. The more difficult, steeper walk starts from the Bluff car park. At times, this can be a steep scramble up the front of The Bluff. Both options provide a good half-day walk. Combine the two shorter walks to create a challenging but rewarding full-day walk.
Ritchie's Hut from 8 Mile Flat (Alpine National Park)– 12km return – Grade 4
Set out from 8 Mile Camping Area and walk along to High Track to Ritchie's Hut in Alpine National Park. This moderate grade walk is a great day walk for the family.
Things To Do
Camping in Howqua Hills Historic Area
Four-wheel driving in Howqua Hills Historic Area
Camping with your horse in the Howqua Hills
How to get there
Walking in Howqua Hills
Need to know
Walking in Howqua Hills
Bushwalking tips
- Wear sturdy footwear with a good grip and carry plenty of water, especially in hot weather.
- Bushfire safety is a personal responsibility. Check the Fire Danger Rating and for days of Total Fire Ban at www.emergency.vic.gov.au;or call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
- The weather in the Alps can be very unpredictable and can change very quickly so ensure you come prepared for any weather.
- Please take rubbish home with you for recycling and disposal.
- All native plants and animals are protected by law, please do not disturb or feed them in any way.
- Do not disturb or remove any fossil, relic or historic artefact.
- Dogs are permitted in Howqua Hills Historic Area but must be on a leash or under control at all times. Dogs are not permitted in Alpine National Park.
- Always let someone know where you are going and lodge a trip intention form
Change of Conditions
Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.
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Notices Affecting Multiple Parks
Seasonal road closures 2022
Some roads in this park are subject to seasonal road closures. Seasonal road closures generally operate from after the long weekend in June through to the end of October, but may be extended due to seasonal conditions. Visit the seasonal road closures page for maps and more information. -
Frys Flat Camping Area (Howqua River Heritage River, Howqua Hills Historic Area)
Vehicle access to Frys Flat Horse Yards
The Howqua Hills Track between Sheepyard Flat South and Frys Flat currently requires 4WD capability and may not be suitable for the use of floats and trailers to transport horses into this area. It is recommended that visitors inspect the track prior to crossing to ensure that they are comfortable with the condition of the track and have the ability to cross safely.Parks Victoria are currently negotiating various approvals and permits required to undertake the necessary repair and maintenance to restore this section of track.If you still wish to book and camp at Fry’s Flat with your horse, there are alternate methods of accessing the area. You can:- Walk/ride horses in from Howqua Hills track (100-200m)
- Walk/ride horse in from Martin/Fern or Spring street (across the river)
Alternative camping areas with vehicle-accessible horse yards available for booking nearby are also found at:- Tunnel Bend, Howqua Hills Historic Area (up to 10 horses, dogs permitted).
- 7-mile Flat, Alpine National Park (up to 20 horses, no dogs permitted)
- King River Hut, Alpine National Park (up to 20 horses, no dogs permitted)
- Lovicks Hut (up to 20 horses, no dogs permitted)
For further information, please contact the Mansfield office on 03 5733 1200 and ask to speak to one of the PV Rangers.
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