Baw Baw National Park

Rugged and remote, Baw Baw National Park is a high-altitude wilderness in Victoria's Gippsland region, known for its ancient snow gum forests, alpine bogs, and sweeping views from the Baw Baw Plateau. It's a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and winter sports enthusiasts, offering a genuine escape from the crowds of more popular alpine parks.

Highlights & What to See

• Baw Baw Plateau Walk: A classic day hike traversing the treeless plateau with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, all the way to the coast.
• Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort: In winter, enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on groomed trails; in summer, it's the launch point for hiking and mountain biking.
• Snow Gum Woodlands: Wander through eerie, sculptural groves of snow gums, their twisted trunks coated in colourful lichen.
• Alpine Bogs: Spot unique flora like the rare Baw Baw berry and listen for the calls of the Baw Baw frog, an endangered species found only here.
• Mountain Biking Trails: The resort area features purpose-built mountain bike trails, including descents through forest and alpine meadows.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least a full day to experience the park's highlights. For a quick taste, a half-day can cover the plateau walk from the resort. Overnight hikers can tackle longer routes like the Baw Baw to Thomson River circuit (2–3 days). Winter visits are best as a day trip or a weekend stay at the resort.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Walhalla: A historic gold-mining town with preserved buildings, a scenic railway, and access to the Australian Alps Walking Track.
• Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort: The main gateway to the park, offering accommodation, dining, and ski hire.
• Noojee: Famous for the Noojee Trestle Bridge and towering mountain ash forests, with lovely picnic spots.
• Yarra Ranges National Park: Explore the towering ash forests of the Upper Yarra Valley and the scenic Lake Mountain.
• Gippsland Lakes: A vast system of lakes and wetlands perfect for boating, fishing, and wildlife spotting, about 1.5 hours south.

Please check official sources for current details.