
Is Mount Hotham paved?
Australia, oceania
303 km
1,862 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, so you're heading to Victoria, Australia? You HAVE to check out Mount Hotham! At 1,862m (that's over 6,100 feet!), it's the highest point on the legendary Great Alpine Road (B500) and the highest paved road in the whole country!
This stretch of the Great Alpine Road runs for about 32.6km (around 20 miles) connecting Harrietville and Hotham Heights. The whole Great Alpine Road is a mammoth 303 km (188 mi) long.
Now, heads up: this is the Victorian Alps, so weather can be a bit wild, especially between Harrietville and Omeo. They usually keep it open in winter, but snow can close it down. If you're going during snow season, you'll need snow chains β you can rent them on either side of the road.
The climb from Harrietville isn't crazy steep, but pay attention! The road's paved, but it can get a little tight with oncoming traffic in spots. Plus, some sections have serious drop-offs right next to the road, and not always with barriers. But the views? Totally worth it! Prepare for incredible scenery!
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 303 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,862 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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