The iconic Dibbins Hut on the Cobungra River Plains
This fantastic route passes iconic high country huts, climbs one of Victoria’s most challenging ascents, and traverses The Razorback, one of the alpine region’s most spectacular ridges. Its 29 kilometre length includes tough descents and ascents, as well as the opportunity to stride out some quick kilometres on relatively easy terrain. And with easy access on the Great Alpine Road near Mount Hotham, this one is well worth checking out.
Important warning on the epic circuits series These circuits are for experts only. As well as being long, these circuits cover rugged terrain in remote environments. You need to be physically and mentally capable, as well as being experienced and competent in the outdoors, and carrying all the necessary equipment and supplies. You should know how to navigate, and will need to take heed of weather conditions.
Some parties may prefer to complete these circuits in two or three days. Although not described here, all of the circuits do provide great overnight camping options.
The route starts at Diamantina Hut, on the Great Alpine Road at the southern end of The Razorback. For the first couple of kilometres you’ll be keeping to the bitumen on the Great Alpine Road up to Mount Loch car park. An alternative is to follow the track behind the hut, traversing steeply then up over Mount Hotham, coming out near Loch car park. From there you then follow a rocky vehicle track that goes around the rim of the ski area in Mount Hotham Alpine Resort, gaining some nice views out to Mount Feathertop and The Razorback as well as back toward the Mount Hotham village.
After about three kilometres you will get to the final lift of the Mount Hotham Resort (The Orchard) near Mount Loch. At this point you leave the vehicle track and follow a foot track that continues around the back of the resort before dropping to reach Derrick Hut after about a kilometre.
The trail then descends, gently at first then quite steeply, for almost four kilometres before reaching the iconic Dibbins Hut on the picturesque Cobungra River plains. Follow the trail for 400 metres to Cobungra Gap,