Perched high on the formidable Eskdale Spur, Michell Hut Campground is not a destination for the casual traveller; it is a critical waypoint for experienced hikers undertaking the challenging ascent of Mount Bogong, Victoria’s highest peak. This remote, walk-in only campground offers a place of respite and acclimatisation before the final push to the summit. Access is strictly via a long, steep, and demanding hiking trail, a journey that rewards the well-prepared with breathtaking sub-alpine scenery and an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. The campground itself is a small, cleared area adjacent to the historic Michell Hut, a basic shelter offering refuge from the often-volatile alpine weather.
This is a place for the self-reliant adventurer. The few available tent sites are set amidst the snow gums, providing a truly immersive wilderness experience. Facilities are, by design, minimal, consisting of a non-flush toilet to reduce environmental impact. All hikers must be entirely self-sufficient, carrying in all their gear, food, water treatment supplies, and a fuel stove, as open fires are strictly prohibited in this fragile alpine environment. The main purpose of staying here is strategic; it breaks the arduous trek to the summit into a more manageable two-day affair, allowing for an early start to conquer the exposed, treeless summit plateau. The experience of waking up above the clouds, with the silence of the high country broken only by the wind, is unforgettable. A trip to Michell Hut is a serious undertaking that requires thorough planning, appropriate gear, and respect for the powerful and unpredictable nature of the Australian Alps.
Michell Hut Campground – VIC Location Map
Michell Hut Campground
- Address: Eskdale Track, Mount Bogong, Alpine National Park, Tawonga VIC 3701
- GPS Coordinates: -36.71972, 147.31281
- Location: A remote, hike-in campground on the Eskdale Spur trail, below the summit of Mount Bogong.
- Site Suitable For: Tents only. Strictly for experienced hikers.
- Road Access: None. Access is via a difficult, multi-hour hike from the trailheads below.
- Site Surface: Natural, uneven ground.
- Camping Permitted: Yes.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Adhere to Parks Victoria guidelines for backcountry camping.
- Number of Powered Sites: 0.
- Number of Un-powered Sites: A small number of informal tent sites.
Facilities
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: No reliable source. Water must be sourced from streams or tanks (if available) and must be treated before consumption.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Highly unlikely. A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger is essential.
- TV Reception: No.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a basic non-flush wilderness toilet.
- Rubbish Bins: No. A strict carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
- Open Fires: Strictly prohibited. Fuel stoves only.
- Generator Use: Prohibited.
Activities & Important Information
- Essentials to Bring: All food, multi-day hiking pack, tent, sleeping gear rated for alpine conditions, waterproof clothing, navigation tools (map, compass, GPS), water treatment system, and a PLB.
- Pet Friendly: No. Pets are strictly forbidden in the Alpine National Park.
- Fishing: Not applicable at this altitude.
- Short Walks: The main activity is the multi-day hike to the summit of Mount Bogong and back.
Local Amenities
The nearest town with full services is Mount Beauty, a significant drive from the trailheads.
Pubs & Places to Eat
- Settlers Tavern (Tawonga): Approx. 25-30 km from the main trailheads.
- Mount Beauty Hotel (Mount Beauty): Offers classic pub meals, approx. 30 km away.
- Various cafes and bakeries in Mount Beauty: For pre-hike or post-hike meals.
Local Attractions
- Mount Bogong Summit: The ultimate objective of hikers staying at the hut.
- Falls Creek Alpine Resort: A major ski resort in winter and a hub for hiking and mountain biking in summer.
- The Kiewa Valley: A picturesque valley with charming towns like Mount Beauty.
Camping & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks: Mount Beauty Holiday Centre offers powered sites and facilities.
- Next Free Camps: Mountain Creek Campground, located at the base of the Staircase Spur trailhead.
- Nearest Dump Points: Mount Beauty.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Mount Beauty.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Mount Beauty.
- Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Located in the Mount Beauty township.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
DANGER: Alpine weather is extremely volatile and can change from sun to snow in minutes, even in summer. Be prepared for all conditions.
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Days can be warm, but nights are cool. Severe thunderstorms and high winds are common. High bushfire risk.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Often provides the most stable weather for hiking, with cooler days and cold nights.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): The area is covered in deep snow and ice. For experienced ski tourers and mountaineers with appropriate avalanche safety gear only.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): A transitional period with melting snow, unpredictable weather, and potentially wet tracks.