If you're looking for a stunning natural wonderland to explore, look no further than Mount Buffalo National Park. This incredible park is home to towering granite peaks, crystal-clear streams and waterfalls, and a wide array of wildlife, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This has to be one of my favourite locations in all of Australia.
Located just 25 kilometres northwest of the charming town of Bright, Mount Buffalo National Park is easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking available at various trailheads and highlights throughout the park. Visitors can take the scenic drive from Bright up the winding road that leads to the park's entrance, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys along the way. Once inside the park, there are numerous activities and sights to explore, making it the perfect day trip or weekend getaway destination for anyone visiting the area.
69451 Eurobin Creek
71973 Eurobin Upper Falls
31369 Lady Bath Falls
One of the first breathtaking sights that you will come across in Mount Buffalo National Park is the short Eurobin Falls walking track, which leads to both Lady Bath Falls and the magnificent Eurobin upper falls that cascade over the granite rocks. The views from this location are simply stunning, and visitors can take a moment to marvel at the natural beauty surrounding them or even take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools of water.
31364 Cathedral Rock
Further up the mountain, we encounter the pristine alpine beauty of Lake Catani. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the snow gums and granite peaks that surround it. The tranquillity of the area makes it perfect for picnics, bushwalks, and birdwatching. Our stay at the Catani Campground was exceptional, providing a peaceful retreat and easy access to various short trails. I recommend the walk to the Mount Buffalo Chalet via The Underground River Track and, of course, a lap around the lake itself for an enriching experience in the heart of Mount Buffalo's alpine charm.
72112 Lake Catani Jetty
Continuing on up Mount Buffalo Road is the awe-inspiring Cathedral Rock, which is conveniently located at the roadside and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, as well as the rock itself.
69453 Views From The Horn
For the ultimate Mount Buffalo experience, I highly recommend the short walk to The Horn, the highest peak in the park at 1,723 meters. The views from the top are truly unforgettable, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and even the city of Melbourne on a clear day. I decided to visit The Horn at sunrise and take the whole family, and it was one of the most memorable experiences. The early start was definitely worth it as we watched the sun gradually rise, painting the sky with stunning hues of pink and orange. The chill in the air was easily forgotten as we sipped our hot chocolate, soaking in the breathtaking scenery around us.
An amazing experience with my family
Here are just a few of the highlights that visitors can enjoy:
- Hiking Trails: Mount Buffalo National Park is home to a network of hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. From leisurely strolls through fields of wildflowers to challenging climbs to the top of Mount Buffalo itself, there's a trail for everyone.
- Rock Climbing: For the more adventurous, Mount Buffalo offers some of the best rock climbing in Australia. The granite cliffs provide a perfect surface for climbers of all levels, and there are plenty of experienced guides available for those who are new to the sport.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: During the winter months, Mount Buffalo is transformed into a winter wonderland, with some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region. The park's three ski areas offer a range of runs for all skill levels, and there are plenty of amenities available, including equipment rentals and ski schools.
- Cycling: The park's scenic roads and trails make it a popular destination for cyclists of all levels. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride through the park's picturesque valleys or a challenging climb up one of its steeper peaks, there's a cycling route to suit your needs.
- Wildlife Watching: Mount Buffalo is home to a wide variety of native wildlife, including wallabies, echidnas, wombats, and over 200 species of birds. Visitors can enjoy watching these animals in their natural habitat, and there are plenty of guided tours available for those who want to learn more about the park's wildlife.
- Picnicking and Camping: The park offers a variety of picnic and camping areas, where visitors can relax and take in the stunning scenery. From well-equipped campgrounds with amenities like showers and toilets to more remote, backcountry campsites, there's an option to suit every type of camper.
Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Mount Buffalo National Park has something to offer. With its stunning natural beauty, incredible range of activities, and abundance of wildlife, it's the perfect destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Mount Buffalo today and experience the wonder of this incredible park for yourself!