The 39,650 hectare Avon Wilderness Park joins the southern end of the Alpine National Park. Formally proclaimed in 1987, the park contains deeply dissected, rugged terrain.

The wilderness park is popular for adventure walking, rock climbing and nature study, however, this area is for experienced and dedicated bushwalkers only. Climatic conditions vary from very hot and dry in summer to very cold with regular snowfalls at higher altitudes in winter. There are no facilities within the park and hikers must be prepared to take the wilderness on its own terms.

Activities

This park offers opportunities for solitude and a range of challenging recreational activities. The untracked rugged divides such as the Razorback and Purgatory Spurs and the major valleys, such as along the Avon and Turton Rivers, provide opportunities for experienced walkers. Gale end and the edges of Wellington Plateau provide some of the few opportunities for rock climbing in a remote setting found in Victoria.

The remote and rugged nature and the lack of facilities in this wilderness area emphasise the need for visitors to be experienced and very well equipped.

Access to Avon Wilderness is by foot only.

Nature

The rugged ranges within the park vary from dense forests of Shining Gum and Mountain Ash to sub-alpine woodlands.

The undisturbed catchments of the park contribute to the high water quality and are important for aquatic fauna and flora downstream.

Visiting

See this page for a full listing of visitor centres.