Mitchell River Walking Track (VIC)

Camping options galore on this eye-bulgingly beautiful 2 day hike through Mitchell River National Park (or just go for the 1 day option!)

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Country on which this adventure takes place who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants, for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

Quick Overview

Mitchell River Walking Track is either a 21km or a 42km, grade 4 hike located in the Mitchell River National Park in Victoria. The hike should take either 1 or 2 days to complete depending on your preference.

Highlights

• Three ideal campgrounds close to water
• High peaks with beautiful views
• Low gullies surrounded by rain forest
• Den of Nargun
• Billy Goat Bend viewing platform over The Amphitheatre

How To Get to the Mitchell River National Park

The Mitchell River National Park is located 320km east of Melbourne and is roughly 25km northwest of Bairnsdale. Continue following Bairnsdale-Dargo road and turn right onto Mitchell Dam Road, which becomes Angusvale Road, to access Angusvale camp ground.

If you wish to begin the hike at the southern or Den of Nargun end, turn right on to Waller Road and follow the signs. You can’t miss it!

Skill Level

Intermediate – advanced

Distance / Duration / Elevation

42kms (return) / 2 days  / 235m

Essential Gear

• Multi-day backpack
• Tent
• Sleeping mat
• Durable pair of hiking boots
• Plenty of food and water
• Map (although it’s a one way trail and it would be hard to become lost)
• Clothing for both warm and cooler weather (it gets cold at night!)
• First Aid kit

Check out our guide to packing for an overnight hike!

What’s it Like to Hike the Mitchell River Walking Track?

Typically done as a one day hike including a car shuffle, this 21 kilometre one-way hike can also be done as a two, three, or four day hike starting at the Angusvale campground in the northern end of the national park or Echo Bend campground in the southern end.

Regardless of which end you begin the hike, you’ll encounter a consistently rocky path including several hills (the views and scenery, however, will make the effort all worth it!).

The sound of the rushing Mitchell river is never too far away, whilst the peaks – particularly the Amphitheatre at Billy Goats Bend – afford you incredible views of the river and the surrounding areas.

Now, in terms of places to camp, there are a few to choose from. The two most ideal spots are the Angusvale campground and Echo Bend campground. Further, there is also a small campsite at Billy Goat’s Bend which has access to a toilet and tank water.

Angusvale is quite a large campsite where you can just about camp anywhere. Best of all, and much like every other site in the national park, it’s free! If you’re camping at the southern end of the national park, you’ll be far better off at Echo Bend campground. For $26 per head per night, or $10 per head if you have 10+ people in your group, it’s an ideal place to stop for the night.

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

The most popular attraction in the park would have to be the Den of Nargun. This is a sacred aboriginal site where it’s believed that the Nargun – a creature made of stone and flesh – resides in the den underneath the waterfall. It’s said that the Nargun would grab any passers-by and drag them into the water.

Read more: Staying Safe Around Swimming Holes and Waterfalls

FAQs Mitchell River Walking Track

How long does it take to hike the Mitchell River Walking Track?

This depends entirely on your walking speed! Most people average one day to walk 21km from Angusvale to Echo Bend. If you want to treat it as an out-and-back hike and do 42km total, plan for two days total. If you prefer to take in the scenery and 10km per day is more your speed, you can complete this comfortably in four days.

How hard is the Mitchell River Walking Track?

The Mitchell River Walking Track is a Grade 4 hike that requires good fitness and bushwalking experience. There are very steep sections and the terrain is rough underfoot.

Where can I go for more information on the Mitchell River Walking Track?

For the most up to date information on the Mitchell River Walking Track and the Mitchell River National Park, check out the Parks Victoria Visitor Guide.

What else can I do on the Mitchell River Walking Track?

The Mitchell River Waking Track is a great location for hiking, camping, trail running, swimming, and kayaking. You can visit for the day or stay for a week!

Looking for more overnight hikes near Melbourne?

• Top 5 Overnight Hikes Near Melbourne
• 10 Best Camping Spots Near Melbourne 2023
• The Fortress – Mt Thackeray Circuit Hike (VIC)