Mount Hotham is the highest point on the Great Alpine Road
Australia, oceania
303 km
1,862 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, fellow adventurers, let's talk about tackling Mount Hotham in Victoria, Australia! Perched way up high at 1,862m (6,109ft), it's the ultimate high point on the legendary Great Alpine Road (B500).
Since way back in '97, the road to the top has been fully sealed, making it the highest paved road in the whole country! Speaking of the Great Alpine Road (B500), this epic journey stretches for a whopping 303 km (188 mi).
Nestled in the Victorian Alps, this beauty, affectionately known as the GAR, is one of Australia's highest roads. It's usually open even in winter, but be warned, snow can throw a wrench in your plans, especially between Harrietville and Omeo. During snow season, diamond-pattern snow chains are a must. The route gets hit with snow frequently during the winter and needs daily clearing. Mother Nature can be a bit temperamental here, so closures aren't uncommon. Chains are available for rent on either side of the road, so you're covered.
The Hotham Pass itself is a 32.6 km (20.25 miles) stretch linking Harrietville to Hotham Heights. The climb from Harrietville isn't crazy steep, but you'll still want to pay attention. You'll be sharing the road, and things can get a little tight in spots. Keep your eyes peeled because some sections have seriously steep drop-offs right next to the road, and sometimes there aren't any crash barriers. The views though? Totally worth it!
Where is it?
Mount Hotham is the highest point on the Great Alpine Road is located in Australia (oceania). Coordinates: -26.4216, 135.9860
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 303 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,862 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -26.4216, 135.9860
Related Roads in oceania
hardWhy is it called Ernest Giles Road?
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, picture this: Ernest Giles Road, smack-dab in the Northern Territory outback. This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. We're talking 100 km (62 miles) of red dirt stretching from Luritja Road into the wild, a vital artery for cattle stations and the resilient communities out here. Forget your low riders—this is strictly 4WD territory. Think dips that'll test your suspension, bone-rattling corrugations, and patches of sand that'll swallow you whole. Oh, and did I mention the wet season? Yeah, this track pretty much becomes a no-go zone when the rains hit. Speaking of challenges, this isn't a road you just wing. Do your homework, pack your gear, and prepare to be self-sufficient. We're talking water, spare tires (plural!), and a solid plan. Cell service? Nope, you're off the grid. You'll be navigating a raw, remote landscape that demands respect. Expect river crossings, potential flooding, and ever-changing road conditions thanks to the desert's unpredictable nature. So, why bother? Because this is an adventure, pure and simple. You'll be navigating one of the richest red, mystic, dusty roads you will ever travel along. Plus, it leads you to awesome spots like the Henbury Meteorite Craters! This is a chance to disconnect, challenge yourself, and witness the stark, stunning beauty of the Aussie outback firsthand.
hardDuncans Pass
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, adventure time! Let's talk about Duncans Pass, chilling way up high in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, Australia. We're talking 912 meters above sea level! Now, to get to the top, you'll be tackling the Narrow Neck Plateau Trail – and this ain't your average Sunday drive. It's a gravel fire trail, so 4x4 is a must. The surface can get pretty loose, especially near the edges, so stay sharp! This road is steep and narrow. Keep in mind you're climbing high, passing through some seriously remote areas. Be prepared for anything! The last section is blocked off with a locked gate, so you'll have to hoof it the rest of the way. Also, heads up – after a bit of rain, this track turns into a muddy, slippery mess. During and after a storm, it might be totally impassable, even with a trusty 4WD. But hey, think of the views across the Blue Mountains National Park! Worth it, right?
easyThe Ultimate Guide to Traveling the Victoria Rocks Road
🇦🇺 Australia
Alright, adventure-seekers, listen up! If you're cruising through Western Australia and crave a taste of the outback, Victoria Rocks Road is calling your name. Picture this: you're east of Perth, smack-dab in the Great Western Woodlands, and you're about to embark on a 141km (87-mile) dirt road journey from the Hyden-Norseman Road all the way north to the cool tourist town of Coolgardie. Now, this isn't your average paved highway. We're talking unsealed, baby! The road peaks at a modest 490m (1,607ft), but don't let that fool you. This wide, well-maintained dirt track is generally suitable for all vehicles under 3.5 tonnes. Word to the wise: keep your wits about you. Rain can turn this beauty into a beast, so drive smart and stay aware of local conditions. But trust me, the scenery makes it all worthwhile!
moderateIs Mount Hotham paved?
🇦🇺 Australia
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 – 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!