Harrietville - Bungalow Spur to Picture Point Walk

Bungalow Spur to Picture Point is a rewarding forest walk in the Alpine National Park near Harrietville, following the lower section of the famous Bungalow Spur Track towards Mount Feathertop.

While the complete Bungalow Spur walk to the summit of Mount Feathertop is a challenging full-day hike, the shorter walk to Picture Point provides an opportunity to experience the beautiful mountain forest without tackling the entire climb.

The track winds uphill through tall eucalypt forest, with tree ferns, mossy vegetation and changing forest scenery as you gain elevation.

Walk Details:

Distance: Approximately 4km return from the Bungalow Spur trailhead. Allow additional distance if starting from the Feathertop Track car park.
Time: Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on fitness, conditions and starting point.
Difficulty: Moderate, with a sustained uphill climb on a formed bushwalking track.
Track Type: Return walk along the same route.
Start: Bungalow Spur Trailhead, Feathertop Track, Harrietville.
Facilities: No facilities at Picture Point. Carry drinking water, food and suitable clothing.

Walk Description:

The walk begins at the Bungalow Spur trailhead, reached via Feathertop Track on the outskirts of Harrietville.

Follow the Bungalow Spur Track uphill through beautiful forest. Early in the walk, the track crosses a creek and continues climbing along the mountainside.

The forest contains a mixture of tall eucalypts, ferns and smaller shrubs, with vegetation changing as the track gains height.

After approximately 2km, reach Picture Point, a historic stopping place along the route to Mount Feathertop.

Picture Point was cleared of trees during the 1920s to provide views across Harrietville and the Upper Ovens Valley for visitors travelling to the former Feathertop Bungalow.

The surrounding vegetation has since grown, so views may be more restricted than they were historically.

After exploring Picture Point, retrace your steps downhill to the starting point.

Getting There:

From Harrietville, turn from the Great Alpine Road onto Feathertop Track.

Continue towards the Bungalow Spur walking track. Parking is available near the junction of Feathertop Track and Dredge Hole Track.

From this parking area, follow Feathertop Track for approximately 600m to the Bungalow Spur trailhead.

Important Information:

The walk involves a steady uphill climb and requires a reasonable level of fitness.
Wear sturdy walking shoes and carry adequate drinking water.
Weather conditions can change quickly in the Alpine National Park.
Snow and ice may affect walking conditions during winter and early spring.
Dogs and other pets are not permitted in the national park.
Check for track closures and weather warnings before setting out.
The walk is unsuitable for prams and wheelchairs.

Opening Hours:

The walking track is accessible subject to weather and park closures. See current park information and conditions.

Review:

The Bungalow Spur walk to Picture Point is an enjoyable option for families with older children who are comfortable walking uphill for an extended period.

The forest scenery is a major attraction, with the track passing through beautiful mountain vegetation and providing a taste of one of Victoria's most famous alpine walking routes.

Picture Point also has an interesting connection with the history of tourism on Mount Feathertop, having once provided scenic views for visitors travelling to the former mountain bungalow.

Although the walk is much shorter than the full Mount Feathertop hike, the continuous climb makes it more demanding than a typical family nature walk.

For families wanting a bushwalking adventure near Harrietville without committing to a full-day alpine hike, Picture Point is worth considering.

Location

Bungalow Spur Trailhead, Feathertop Track, Harrietville 3741 View Map

Web Links

→ www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/sites/bungalow-spur-walk