Up to the Crosscut

Requirements: Good level of fitness

This is another classical hike in the Victorian Alps. The Crosscut is a ridge 20km east of Mt Buller but pretty remote due to difficult access. Altitudes about 1600-1700m, similar to Mt Bogong. The weather is getting cold but the landscape is incredible and snow gums are snow gums.

The plan is to leave Melbourne on Friday night and camp near Mt Stirling (~3h drive). On Sat, drive to Upper Howqua camp and hike up the Helicopter Spur (very steep, weather dependent) to Mt Magdala and Mt Howitt and camp at Macalister Springs. On Sunday, walk a short section of the Crosscut (overlooking "The Terrible Hollow" and "Devil's Staircase") and back via Stanley Name Spur.

The route is pretty demanding (both days >10km with steep sections), so good fitness required. There is strong probability of snow asking for a good sleeping bag and lots of warm clothes. The hut can be full, so tents add more weight to the big pack.

Costs: $30-40 depending on cars + possible pub dinners