Bushwalking
Sun 15 4:00pm - Thu 19 Nov 2026 10:00pm
Posted by Callum P
on Thu, 5 Nov 2026
Leaders:
Callum P, Jess V
Standard: Advanced
Meeting: Tue, 10 Nov 2026, 7:00 pm
Days: 4 Length: 41km Elev. gain: 2700m Grade: 5
The Viking Loop is one of Victoria's most challenging alpine hikes, taking us through some of the most spectacular and remote terrain in the High Country. Over four days, we'll traverse exposed ridgelines, rocky spurs and rugged wilderness, taking in landmarks including the Crosscut Saw, Mount Buggery, Mount Speculation, The Razor and The Viking.
We'll leave MUMC clubrooms at 4pm on Sunday afternoon and drive up to Mount Howitt, camping near the car park overnight. Starting early Monday morning, we'll follow the Crosscut Saw towards Mount Speculation for our first night. From there, we'll head into the Razor-Viking Wilderness Zone, navigating through scrub and rocky terrain before climbing The Viking and camping at Vikings Saddle. Day three takes us down towards the Wonnangatta River, before a final big climb up Wonnangatta Spur and the Zeka Track returns us to the cars on Thursday.
This is a serious Grade 5 hike requiring good fitness, previous multi-day hiking experience and confident off-track navigation. Expect long days, heavy packs, steep climbs, scrambling and thick scrub.
Itinerary
Sunday 15 Nov - Drive up
Meet at MUMC clubrooms at 4pm.
Drive to Mount Howitt car park and camp overnight.
Monday 16 Nov - Mount Speculation
12.5km 900m elev. 6-8 hours
Early start from Mount Howitt car park.
Climb towards Mount Howitt and join the Australian Alps Walking Track.
Traverse the Crosscut Saw, Mount Buggery and Horrible Gap.
Finish at Mount Speculation for the first night's camp.
Tuesday 17 Nov - The Viking
9km 500m elev. 6-8 hours
Descend towards Catherine Saddle.
Navigate through the Razor-Viking Wilderness Zone and traverse The Razor.
Climb The Viking, including the rocky chimney section.
Descend to Vikings Saddle for the second night.
Wednesday 18 Nov - Wonnangatta River
8.5km 200m elev. 5-7 hours
Cross South Viking before descending towards the Wonnangatta Valley.
Follow the steep, largely unmarked spur through thick scrub.
Reach the Wonnangatta River and camp along the river flats.
Thursday 19 Nov - Back to the Cars
11km 1100m elev. 6-8 hours
Follow the Wonnangatta River before beginning the long climb up Wonnangatta Spur.
Tackle the Devils Staircase and climb back towards the high plains.
Return to Mount Howitt car park before driving back to Melbourne.
Costs
Fuel costs will be calculated using the MUMC fuel calculator. Estimated $50 - $60 per person
Extra Considerations
- Previous multi-day hiking experience and confident off-track navigation skills are essential.
- Reliable water sources are limited. A water filter or purification tablets are required, and sufficient water must be carried between sources. There are generally only four dependable spots to refill: the spring north of Vallejo Gantner Hut, Camp Creek located about 500 meters north of Mount Speculation, a small creek roughly 500 meters east of Vikings Saddle, and the Wonnangatta River itself.
- A map, compass and/or GPS are required. Much of the route is unmarked or poorly defined.
- Conditions can change rapidly in the High Country. Be prepared for strong winds, rain, extreme heat and potentially snow.
- Phone reception is extremely limited. Leaders will carry a PLB and first aid kit.
- Gear can be hired from the MUMC gear store at the Tuesday meeting.
More info:
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