I might be overly optimistic, but I'm hoping that COVID restrictions will be lifted in Victoria on Monday enough that I'll be able to get up to the high country for a walk in the next week or so before winter properly arrives.
I'm yet to make it to Mt McDonald (almost got there a couple of Easters ago but ran out of water) and am keen to do so. Just thought I'd check if there are any updates on the "track" from McDonald's summit to Upper Jamieson Hut? Last I heard it was very overgrown in parts but not too hard to find the way.
My idea for a circuit is:
1. 8 Mile Flat to Upper Howqua, 15km
2. Upper Howqua to base of Mt Clear (via Heli Spur), 14.5km
3. Base of Mt Clear to saddle near Mt McDonald, 16.5km
4. Mt McDonald to 8 Mile Flat via Low Saddle Rd, Refrigerator Gap Road, 8 Mile Spur, 22km (could camp at/near Refrigerator Gap if short on daylight).
The road bash after McDonald isn't great, but Refrigerator Gap Road isn't too bad as far as roads go. Maybe it's better to walk in opposite direction - easier to find the way climbing up McDonald than going down if it's still very overgrown?
Any thoughts appreciated.