Scenic Views From the Tawonga Gap Lookout
The Tawonga Gap Lookout provides breathtaking views of Kiewa Valley towards Mount Bogong and Mt Emu, located just off Bright-Mount Beauty road.
After an initially slow climb, the road takes a sharp left-hand hairpin at 2.7km to increase its gradient significantly.
Mount Bogong
Mount Bogong stands majestically atop Victoria’s Bogong High Plains and is an increasingly popular hiking destination for experienced alpine hikers looking for challenging alpine hiking challenges and rewarding alpine experiences. Hikers must ascend a steep and difficult ascent before reaching its summit; once there, however, stunning landscapes and an almost other-worldly sensation await!
Mount Bogong, Victoria’s highest peak, can be tackled as either a challenging day hike or more manageable overnight trek when weather permits. When winter hits, its surrounding Bogong High Plains become transformed into a picturesque snowscape covering ground-hugging plants in thick white blankets of snow; whether skiing or simply taking in its views a visit to Mount Bogong will leave an unforgettable memory behind.
Mount Bogong can be approached in several different ways. One option starts from Tawonga Gap lookout and climbs directly toward its summit – an equally steep and difficult ascent that should take just under two hours to complete. Another route begins at Roper Lookout and follows a dirt track leading up to West Kiewa Power Station; although this requires more walking time it offers stunning views across Falls Creek valley and mountains beyond.
Once at the lookout, it’s time to head down the road and onto the trail in order to embark upon your trek up Mount Bogong. The first few kilometers of your hike should be fairly straightforward as you traverse classic alpine forest composed of giant Victorian ash trees before gradually climbing through boulders and cliff edges until reaching an otherworldly environment above treeline.
Staircase Spur and Eskdale Spur can take most hikers at least half a day to complete, though some continue on past the summit to stay overnight at Cleve Cole Hut, an idyllic stone structure perched beside a creek among snow gum trees.
Mount Emu
Emu Mountain provides an ideal opportunity for those seeking something a bit off-beat to explore – this 1.6km loop walk begins in Havana Road East near Coolum Beach State High School with parking available on weekends. While parts of this path may contain loose rocks, comfortable walking shoes and water will go a long way toward making this hike enjoyable – not forgetting its views over Peregian and Coolum!
The trail winds its way gracefully through native bush, gradually increasing in gradient after several kilometres. At one point it even doubles back on itself for an even steeper ascent before finally culminating at Mount Emu’s summit.
From here there are stunning views of Kiewa Valley and its regulating pondage below, as well as of Mount Bogong and Emu which can be seen off in the distance.
Emu Mountain is an excellent starting point for new hikers, with the summit walk taking only 25 minutes each way. Those seeking something a bit more challenging may enjoy Hakea Trail which involves longer walking and features steep sections which can be avoided by staying on tracks.
Emus are found across most of Australia and can be spotted in an array of habitats from coastal regions to sclerophyll forests and savannah woodlands. As nomads, these creatures travel up to 25 kilometres daily in search of food or water; preferring those parts with the highest nutritional value such as seeds, fruits and flowers as their food source.
Emus are captivating species, boasting some striking characteristics like three large toes on each foot and a featherless black head and neck. Additionally, they possess an effective natural defence mechanism – being capable of running at high speeds to escape predators such as dingoes or wedge-tailed eagles.
Emus are iconic representatives of alpine district biodiversity. Protected, their presence serves as a constant reminder that we live among unique ecosystems like this one.
The Kiewa Valley
The Kiewa Valley is one of the most stunning and captivating features found in North Eastern high country Australia. The valley’s river, named Kiewa, winds past townships like Mount Beauty, Tawonga, Kergunyah and Gundowring before merging with Murray River near Albury – its history steeped with pastoralists and high country settlers alike.
From Wodonga, the route to Mount Beauty begins its north east journey by winding its way through eucalypt forest before ascending through high country where the Kiewa River joins with West Kiewa River and Bogong High Plains. You may come across cyclists taking part in some of Victoria’s 7 Peaks Rides who may need 1.5 metres passing space as well as your appreciation of their efforts – be sure to give them both at least one passing space and give a thumbs-up in appreciation of their efforts!
Mount Beauty, known for its shopping and services, can easily be reached. Hollands Street serves as a hub of activity with restaurants and motels lining it. A walk out to Sullivans Lookout provides stunning views of Mount Bogong and regulating pondage; best seen between June and October when snow-capped mountain towers over this picturesque township.
For those who enjoy walking, the Horn Track from the lookout to Mount Bogong summit offers breathtaking views. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
Mount Bogong-Warkwoolowler, Victoria’s highest peak, dominates the Alpine region and serves as a subject of much photographic, artistic and literary expression. Its snowcapped peak draws attention from photographers, artists and writers, while also serving as an airstrip for hang gliding and paragliding activities.
East and West Kiewa rivers are popular spots for fly fishing enthusiasts, with Kiewa River known for its population of wild brown trout. Alpine National Park and Bogong High Plains both provide ample opportunity for cross-country skiing throughout winter months.
Kiewa Valley is an exquisite high country adventure just four hours’ drive from Melbourne. Visitors will experience some of the region’s most stunning scenic vistas here.
The Ovens Valley
Ovens Valley is a breathtaking mountain region, which attracts families seeking to escape city life in search of relaxation. Popular among visitors are Eldorado’s historic dredge and Gun House Park as well as Tawonga Gap Lookout and Sullivans Lookout; all offering spectacular panoramic views. Additionally, its rich history includes many historic buildings and sites to discover during your stay in Ovens Valley.
The Tawonga Gap is an iconic bike climb that provides cyclists with a challenging and rewarding ride. Beginning from Germantown and ending at Tawonga Gap Lookout, cyclists start at Germantown before ascending for roughly 8km until hitting steeper gradients reaching over 4% for 6km of climbing to Tawonga Gap Lookout. Although initially gradual in nature, later 6km are steeper. Along this road can be found several sweeping bends as well as gradients exceeding 4 percent to create an experience unlike anything seen elsewhere!
Tawonga Gap is an ideal spot for families, offering picnic areas and walking trails with breathtaking views from its lookout point. Spring and autumn wildflower displays can also be found here, while Ovens River runs right through this picturesque spot providing a scenic backdrop.
The Ovens River is an important waterway in the region, linking freshwater meadows and marshes in Alpine National Park and Mount Buffalo National Park with freshwater meadows and marshes in them both. It provides home for an abundance of wildlife as well as significant birdlife populations – the Lower Ovens River catchment being home to numerous rare or threatened species such as broad-shelled tortoises and large-footed myotis bats – rare or threatened species being among others.
Tawonga offers beautiful homes that provide an ideal escape from city life, offering striking views of mountains and nearby farmland from both along the highway and up into the hills. Plus, Tawonga takes full advantage of katabatic winds which enable residents to open windows and doors and enjoy fresh mountain air without risk of scorch marks!