Exploring the Spectacular Cathedral Ranges: A Hiking Adventure you don't want to miss!
- Phil Czaj
- Jul 11, 2023
- 4 min read
Welcome to the magnificent Cathedral Ranges, a hiker's paradise nestled just a couple of hours northeast of Melbourne. It is a remarkable geological formation characterized by a 7-kilometer ridge of upturned sedimentary rock, predominantly sandstone and mudstone. This unique composition has shaped the range with steep sides and a narrow razorback ridge, adding to its dramatic and rugged beauty.
As hikers traverse the trails of the Cathedral Ranges, they are immersed in the awe-inspiring landscapes created by years of geological forces. The distinct geological features of the range contribute to its allure and make it a captivating destination for outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts. It offers a thrilling experience with its challenging yet rewarding full circuit, comprising the northern and southern circuits. So lace up your boots, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through rugged terrains, breathtaking views, and adrenaline-pumping climbs!
As you embark on the Cathedral Ranges adventure, starting from Cooks Mill and heading towards Messmate Track is a strategic choice. This route allows you to warm up to the climbing component whilst also bringing it early into the hike and it means you face it as an upward climb. The path leading to the trail-head of Messmate is a pleasant walk along a peaceful 4x4 track, immersing you in the tranquility of the area.
Once you reach Messmate Track, get ready for a serene and picturesque journey. This quiet single track slowly winds its way up toward Sugarloaf Saddle, surrounded by dappled light filtering through the enchanting forest. As you make your way through the trail, the peaceful ambiance and the beauty of nature provide a sense of calm and awe-inspiring moments.
Arriving at Sugarloaf Saddle, you're faced with an exciting decision—two thrilling paths await you. Both Wells Cave and Canyons Tracks offer an exhilarating experience with plenty of fun. Prepare to scramble up walls whilst soaking in the beauty of the gully below, and immerse yourself in the joy of exploration. For the daring at heart, Wells Cave, with its unique gap between a fallen slab and the rock, adds an extra element of excitement before the final push to the top of Sugarloaf Peak.
The journey continues along Razorback Track, a breathtaking ridge line walk that will leave you in awe of the surrounding panoramic views. This highly rated and exhilarating hike is considered one of the best day trips out of Melbourne. Following Razorback Track, you'll reach the Farmyard, a hike-in-only camping spot that marks the connecting point of the Northern and Southern circuits. Take a moment to soak in the serenity of this quiet spot and recharge with some lunch and snacks for the next leg of your adventure.
Continuing our journey through the Cathedral Ranges, we arrive at the captivating South and North Jawbone Lookouts. These viewpoints offer awe-inspiring panoramic views that will leave you breathless. As you make your way towards the northern lookout, keep your eyes peeled for a lucky encounter with the fascinating Lyrebirds. These elusive creatures with their unique calls and impressive mimicry skills add a touch of enchantment to your hike. Be prepared to witness these magnificent birds in their natural habitat, a rare and unforgettable sight. They also put on quite the show with their comical flailing run, as if they're auditioning for a slapstick comedy. These goofy birds certainly know how to keep me entertained and wondering if they've secretly enrolled in a comedy improv class.
After enjoying the jaw-dropping views and the company of Lyrebirds, the adventure in the Cathedral Ranges continues to unfold. In the next leg of the hike we make our way towards the Ridge Track, which leads us to the majestic Cathedral Peak and its smaller counterpart, Little Cathedral Peak. The Ridge Track offers breathtaking 360-degree views in some vantage points, showcasing the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Be prepared for exposed sections along the track, which can add an extra element of challenge in windy or summer conditions. Cathedral Peak surprises with its hidden grandeur, while the real treat awaits at Little Cathedral. It's worth the extra kilometer to reach the edge-of-the-world cliff views that make you feel like you're wearing the scenery itself.
As we start our descent from Little Cathedral, we make our way down the Little Cathedral track, heading towards Neds Saddle. Along the way, we have the option to explore an offshoot to Neds Peak, offering a different perspective of the surroundings. Although not as grand as the previous lookouts, the beauty of Neds Peak is undeniable in its own right. From Neds Saddle, we continue our descent down Neds Gully Track, where the environment gradually changes, leading us back to the lush Greener Gully. Here, we intersect with the Little River Track, guiding us back to our starting point at Cooks Mill. This final leg of the hike presents a different scenery, adding variety to the overall experience.
The Cathedral Ranges, with its diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes, is undoubtedly a must-do hike for outdoor enthusiasts in Victoria. From the peaceful trails of Messmate and the adventurous climbs to Sugarloaf Peak, to the thrilling scrambles at Canyons and Wells Cave Tracks, and the breathtaking views from South and North Jawbone Lookouts, this hike has it all. The Ridge Track offers stunning moments of 360-degree views, while Cathedral Peak and Little Cathedral Peak provide a sense of wonder and solitude at the edge of the world. As you make your way through the changing environments, you'll discover why the Cathedral Ranges is a beloved destination for hikers seeking adventure, serenity, and unforgettable moments in nature.
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